In this guide, we’ll be answering all the most common questions about lamination in print including, what is lamination? What’s the difference between lamination types? And what benefits does lamination offer? If you read through, you can make sure you choose the right choice making sure you have success with your print!
What is Lamination in Printing?
Lamination in print is a finishing process used in the industry where a thin layer of plastic is applied through pressure and heat to paper or card stock. If you have a brochure, business card or book anywhere in your vicinity, then we’re almost certain you’ll find an example of lamination in print right there.
Laminating protects and is generally used to protect the paper from wear and tear, but it can also give your final printed product a truly special finish, helping you establish a professional and refined brand identity.
Lamination in print is not to be confused with the thick plastic casing of pouch laminators you probably used in school. Whilst they can be known as lamination pockets this called encapsulation. Lamination in printing is more advanced and delivers a smooth, polished finish to your printed product.
Here is a little video showcasing the 2 types.
You can find more helpful videos on our Youtube Channel.
What’s the Difference Between the 3 Lamination Types?
At Print Stafford, we offer the 3 most populartypes of lamination in printing. These include Matte, Gloss and Soft Touch Lamination.
Matt Lamination – Just as its name suggests, matt lamination gives a smooth, no-shine finish. It is one of the most popular types and is often chosen by businesses that prefer a more ‘natural’ look
Gloss Lamination – On the opposite end of the spectrum to matte is gloss lamination with its high-shine finish. This is commonly used on print products that you want to have a big impact such as menus and magazine covers
Soft Touch Lamination – Soft touch has a smooth velvety texture, almost like suede and is perfect for laminated printed products that you know will be handled often like business cards
Is it Matte, Matt or Mat
Well it can be all! Technically in the English language it is Matte – with an ‘e’ although it widely used without within the print industry. We double checked this those that know at Collins Dictionary just to make sure.
Matt Vs Gloss: Which Lamination Type Should You Choose?
Matt and Gloss lamination are the two most popular lamination types in the printing industry, but which lamination type to choose is entirely up to you and your project. As we outlined above, matt lamination offers a non-reflective matte finish while gloss lamination opts for a high-shine, so keep in mind whether your lamination printing project is best suited to reflect light or absorb it.
In our experience, matte lamination is best suited for printed products that will be situated under direct lighting, won’t be handled too excessively and for businesses suited to a modern, sophisticated image.
On the other hand, gloss laminate provides a slightly higher level of protection than matte since it can be easily wiped clean. This makes it perfect for printed products being handled a lot, like presentation folders.
Gloss lamination also has a strong visual impact so if your printed design has strong colours, it could be the best choice for you.
Gloss lamination was popular with business cards, however nowadays most business choose to go with a matt finish with additional embellishments as this looks more professional.
Additional Finishes: What is Spot UV and Foiling in Lamination?
Available on our matt and soft touch laminated products are two additional finishes known as Spot UV and Foiling. Spot UV involves using a raised, clear polymer with a nice glossy finish on only selected parts of your print design. For example, you could use Spot UV on a particular part of your text or your logo to draw more attention to that area.
Here at Print Stafford we offer a choice of 2 Spot UV finishes premium which measures 14microns or Luxury which measures a massive 43microns thick. Both are great choices depending on your print project.
Meanwhile, Foil lamination uses heat and an opaque foil colour to create an unmissable contrasting finish on your design in gold or silver. Foiling looks particularly striking against dark artwork and undoubtedly evokes a luxurious and elegant brand image.
What are the Benefits of Adding Lamination to Print?
Lamination in printing has a huge host of benefits. For many businesses, the main benefit is the increased durability it offers the printed materials. It allows them to withstand excessive handling and use, adds protection against fingerprints and stains and can also greatly reduces the likelihood of marks and tears occurring.
Another huge advantage to lamination is how it can greatly improve the look of your printed product, something that is a necessity for any business looking to establish a strong and professional brand image.
It not only looks smart but will actually enhance the appearance of the materials which consequently will allow your print design to have more impact on the consumer.
Generally, matte lamination tones down colour and offers a smooth, modern texture while gloss lamination instantly makes colours look more vibrant. Soft touch lamination makes artwork look deeper and richer.
What Print Items is Lamination Available On?
Now we’ve answered all your questions on what is lamination in print, I bet you’re wondering where you can get started on your own laminated print product! At Print Stafford, we offer a huge range of products available with lamination.
Lamination Printing Services
At Print Stafford, we know the importance of conveying your brand image professionally and properly, so we are proud to offer a huge range of lamination printing services on almost all of our products.
If you require any assistance choosing the best lamination type for you or you need assistance with designing a laminated print product, get in touch with the Print Stafford team today.