Types of Lamination

Lamination has been popular for a very long time and shows no signs of fading. Why would it? There are many reasons you might want something laminated, and with that demand comes various options to customize the end product. This means there are several different types of lamination.

In this article, we’ll cover three types of lamination:

  • Matte Lamination
  • Glossy Lamination
  • Soft Touch Lamination

Benefits of Lamination

First, let's talk about the benefits of lamination. Initially, laminating focused on preserving items that weren't very durable, but there’s more to it than that. Here are some common benefits:

Protect from Abrasion and Scratching

Laminated items are protected from scratching, tearing, smudging, or scuffing. This protective layer ensures that your paper, menu, or map remains intact and usable.

Extend the Life of the Product

A thick laminate can significantly extend the life of a product, making it more durable and capable of withstanding daily use.

Avoiding Damage from Liquids

Laminating protects printed items from water or other liquids. This is especially useful for products that will be near liquids, such as menus or boating brochures.

Look and Feel

Lamination can give your items a unique look and feel. You can choose between a flat, somewhat shiny, or very glossy finish, matching the theme of your piece or adding a nice differentiating feature.

UV Light Protection

Laminating can also protect your items from UV light, which can damage paper and alter the appearance or lifespan of your pieces.

Types of Lamination

Matte Lamination

Matte lamination, also known as matte finishing, gives printed materials a non-glossy, matte appearance. It involves applying a matte film coating to the surface of a printed document or packaging. This type of lamination is non-reflective and versatile, suitable for premium looks, rustic themes, or simple, affordable appearances.

Glossy Lamination

Glossy lamination enhances the appearance and durability of printed materials by applying a thin layer of glossy plastic film, typically made of polypropylene or polyester. Unlike matte lamination, glossy lamination is highly reflective, giving a “shiny” look to anything it covers. It’s perfect for showcasing work or matching the overall theme of a design.

Soft Touch Lamination

Soft touch lamination creates a tactile and luxurious feel on printed materials by applying a special matte film coating with texture-like properties. This lamination creates a velvety or suede-like texture that is smooth to the touch. The film used for soft touch lamination typically combines plastic and additives for a soft, tactile quality. This type is usually meant for high-end, premium projects.

Common Laminated Products

There’s no limit to what you can laminate, and creativity is encouraged. Here are some common products that are often laminated:

  • Posters
  • Brochures
  • Flyers
  • Booklets
  • Catalogs
  • Menus
  • Stickers
  • Calendars