Choose matte lamination for a soft, premium, easy-to-read finish. Choose gloss for bright, vivid photos and wipe-clean surfaces. Choose pouch lamination for things handled constantly, such as menus, price lists and ID cards. Add creasing to anything thick that folds, and perforation to anything that tears off.

Lamination is a thin plastic film, or a sealed pouch, over the printed paper. It protects against wear, moisture and stains, and it changes how the print looks and feels. It isn’t the same thing as the paper being matte or glossy.

Common mistakes

• Gloss on something people must sign or stamp.

• Laminating thin 80 GSM sheets, which makes them curl.

• Folding 250 GSM or heavier paper without creasing it first.

• Laminating the inside pages of a book.

• Choosing a finish by look alone and ignoring how the item will be handled.

FAQ

• Is matte or gloss better? Matte for reading and a premium feel. Gloss for vivid images and wipe-clean use.

• Can I write on a laminated surface? Matte is easier than gloss. Neither is as easy as plain paper.

• What is pouch lamination? Sealing the sheet inside a heat-sealed plastic pouch.

• What is creasing? A pressed groove on the fold so thick paper folds without cracking.

• Does lamination make it waterproof? It protects against moisture. Pouch lamination also seals the edges.

Not sure which what finish you need? Tell us what you’re printing, and we’ll suggest the right one.