June 2010 - Film Lamination: Max Cover Protection,
Minimal Investment

Book covers are subject to more wear and tear than you may realize. Every time a book is stacked, moved, pulled from a shelf and opened for reading increases the chance for damage to its cover. These scuffs, scratches and stains aren't just unattractive; they can force otherwise useful books into early retirement.

That's where film lamination can help. By protecting against wear and tear from usage as well as from grease, water and other substances, film laminating helps maximize the value of both softcover and case-bound books.

Laminating Film Varieties
Laminating films are typically available in three finishes: gloss, matte and satin. Each of them provides a similar level of protection, although fingerprints and smudges can be more visible on gloss films.

Films are manufactured using nylon, polyester and polypropylene, each of which has distinct properties and advantages. For example, nylon films offer superior resistance to moisture and curling, making them a recommende choice for lay-flat applications such as Otabind and PUR adhesive-bound books. Polyester films are durable, scratch-resistant and available in glueable/stampable formulas, which allow laminated covers to accept foil stamping, gluing and other finishing operations. Polypropylene films are often the choice for books that will come in frequent contact with oily or greasy substances.

All of these films can be applied using a smooth or linen embossed roller finish.

Layout Tips
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when preparing projects for laminating:

• Leave a minimum of 3/8” margin on all four sides of the printed sheet to allow the laminate to be laid down. Be sure the gripper is clear and marked. These guides will help your finisher maintain accurate registration as laminate is applied.

• Make sure you’re working with a thick enough caliper of stock. A caliper of .004 is required when working with thin stock such as 80# C1 litho label, a common cover wrap material for hard bound books.

• If you’re working with digital printed or toner-based inks on a sheet, let us know up front so we can have the correct type of film that they require. High-tack or Corona treated lamination adheres best on these sheets. Digital-specific film typically costs more than standard laminating films - Muscle Bound can help you identify the specific cost difference for your project.

Muscle Bound Advantage
At Muscle Bound Bindery, we apply laminate to the toughest bookbinding products available anywhere. Our smooth roller and embossed roller finish give you design freedom for projects of any variety. For ultra-strong side-sewn casebound children's books, perfect bound catalogs and Otabind lay-flat projects, rely on Muscle Bound as your bookbinding partner. Give us a call today to discuss your next job.