Laminating Guide
Laminating guide
Not sure which machine or film to choose? This guide answers the most common questions. Still stuck after reading? Call us — we'll tell you in two minutes.
Pouch vs. roll laminating
Pouch laminating
Pre-cut plastic sleeves. Slide your document in, feed through the machine. Simple, no setup required.
Best forOffices, schools, small businesses
Common usesID cards, badges, certificates, menus
VolumeUnder 50 items per day
High volume
Roll laminating
Continuous film rolls. More setup required, but significantly faster and more cost-effective at volume.
Best forPrint shops, copy centers, schools
Common usesPosters, banners, maps, wide-format
Volume50+ items per day
Mil weight — which thickness do you need?
Mil refers to the thickness of the laminating film. Thicker means more rigid and more protective.
3
MIL
Thin and flexible. Documents that fold or need to pass through a printer.
5
MIL
Most popular. Everyday documents, ID cards, classroom materials.
7
MIL
Sturdy. Luggage tags, security badges, frequently handled reference cards.
10
MIL
Maximum rigidity. Outdoor signs, permanent menus, heavy-duty tags.
Quick decision guide
How many items are you laminating per day?
Under 10→Pouch laminator · 5 mil pouches · done.
10–50→Pouch laminator · consider 3 or 5 mil depending on durability needs.
50–200→Roll laminator · call us to match the right machine to your volume.
200+→Heavy-duty roll laminator · we'll spec the right setup for you.
Still not sure? Call us.
We've answered every laminating question there is. Two minutes on the phone and you'll know exactly what you need.
800-437-4787