Why Laminate??

Thermal film laminating provides instant benefits to a printed/copied item - an attractive look, an increase in brilliance and a smooth feel. Probably the best feature of laminating is the durability it provides. The item is protected from smudging, tearing, handling, scratching and moisture.

Laminating Considerations

The laminating we provide at Buttons Plus includes -

Two sided laminating
One sided laminating
Mixed film laminating (matte on one side and gloss on the other side)

The most common laminating is two sided and requires several specific considerations -
Film thickness

1.7 mil - this light PET film is ideal for high speed laminating systems - is durable,
scuff resistant and works well for presentation folders and book covers.
3.0 mil - this film thickness is the most popular in today’s markets. It is a clear
all around film with excellent scuff and scratch resistance. Ideal use
includes menus, maps, posters, etc.
5.0 mil - clear all around film; ideal when some rigidity and toughness are required.
Is durable and scratch and scuff resistant.
10.0 mil - very rigid; works well for flat menus, posters, ID and social security cards.
Note: Laminating film should not be used as the only source for rigidity. It is much
more economical to do your project using a heavier paper stock.
Film finish
Gloss - The most common, low cost film, with a clear shiny finish
Semi-gloss - a satiny matte finish; has more clarity than regular matte.
Matte - glare free and suitable for creating a softer appearance.
Trims
Sealed or standard - an approximate sealed 1/8” film border left on all four edges.
Flush - trimmed to edge of product; leaves product vulnerable to moisture.

Additional Considerations

Many print projects are printed on press with inks containing oil/silicone, are reproduced on copy systems that utilize fuser oil or are printed on digital printers that use heat sensitive inks. Consider the following.

Printing Press Inks

The amount of ink printed on the paper used might cause a problem. If large areas of ink are on the paper, you might want to laminate a sample of the printing to determine proper adhesion. If the printed areas are relatively small or spread out this may not pose a problem. Typically most offset printing products laminate without problems.

Color Copying

If the project has been reproduced on a color system that utilizes fuseroil (Xerox Docutech, Canon, etc.) you should consider using a super stick laminating film. Although it is somewhat recognized that if you wait 12 to 24 hours between printing and laminating the oils will have been absorbed/evaporated and would no longer pose a problem. Our approach is to run a sample test assuring proper results.

Digital Prints

In most cases digital printing systems use inks that are often sensitive to heat. To avoid causing the inks to boil or change color you might consider cold laminating or low temperature laminating for best results.

Laser Printers/Ink Jet Printers

Most laser printer toner is adhered to the paper with heat and not oil so most laser printed materials pose no problem. Inks used in ink jet printers are absorbed and evaporate posing no concerns.

Miscellaneous

Cornering - laminates in 10 mil are very stiff and have sharp corners. Using round corners results in a better product.
Scoring - works quite well on 1.7, 3 and 5 mil film. Is not appropriate on 10 mil film.
One sided lamination - requires that the printed sheet be over sized allowing trimming.Consult with us prior to printing.
Small items to be flush cut - business cards, book marks and similar items should be printed in multiples on the substrate along with register(cutting) marks. If a sealed edge is required deliver the already cut to size.

Buttons Plus: Custom, Wholesale Button Manufacturer Serving Marysville and Grass Valley, CA

Experience, dedication, attention to detail and professionalism are some of the reasons businesses continue turning to Buttons Plus for their customized promotional button needs. From professional design consultations and services to button manufacturing, we have the tools and experience required to create the perfect promotional product for your company or organization. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you get your message or brand in front of your targeted audience.

Personalized Button Manufacturer Serving Marysville and Grass Valley, CA – Buttons Plus

If you are looking for the perfect vessel to deliver your message on, consider custom designed buttons. Buttons are sometimes overlooked when it comes to promotional products so this could be the perfect opportunity to get a leg up on your competition. Whether you are in need of design assistance or have a design ready and are just looking for a manufacturer, Buttons Plus is here to help.

Custom Button Designs and Manufacturing at Buttons Plus – Proudly Serving Marysville and Grass Valley, CA

Thank you for taking the time to browse through our website and for considering Buttons Plus for your customized, wholesale button manufacturing needs. We look forward to working with you! If you are ready to order, you can fill out our order request form and one of our representatives will get back to you with pricing information. If you require immediate assistance or prefer to fulfill your order over the phone, you can give us a call today at 530-345-6049.