Laminaton is the procedure of adhering a thin layer of transparent plastic over a photograph, printed poster, or other paper product to protect it from damage by moisture, abrasion, harmful UV rays of the sun or other light sources. Laminating also helps to prevent kinks and creases in prints, posters, or maps that are frequently folded or rolled in use. Not only do trade show graphics that are rolled and unrolled constantly for show booth displays need extra protection against wear and tear, but they also require a non-reflective surface to minimize unwanted reflections from lights of other displays.

Laminates come in many surfaces, thicknesses, textures, flexibilities, and applications. Some are intended to be used on printed material such as photographs, posters, display ads, window signs. Others may be intended for more severe applications such as weathershield - protection against constant outdoor sunlight, heat, rain, and cold. Others have specific jobs to perform like stiffening a trade show banner to keep the graphic rigid and upright in its display.

Different surface finishes offer more choices to consider - High Gloss for brilliant display impact; semi-gloss for a more practical solution, or satin for a nearly non reflective surface. Textured 'Trade-Show' laminates are ideal for many everyday applications. With a non reflective scuff resistant surface, it can be used in show rooms where lights and windows are present, and can be handled repeatably with any adverse effect to the lamination or the product.

Another consideration are the 'Specialty' laminates, those with specific applications such as 'Dry Erase' laminate, which allows for use of dry erase markers on any product protected with this laminate. You can have your own graphic laminated and use the markers as necessary, and simply wipe off. Thick laminates will add stiffening to any product that needs added stamina, while combinations of laminates can provide protection, but make your product easy to roll and store when not in use. There are other Specialty laminates that are decorative as well as protective, and often lend an added artistic dimension to your display or photograph.

1. Textured Laminate - Used for trade show graphics where the products will be handled often and subject to constant travel as well as being rolled and unrolled for trade shows, the product is scuff resistant, non reflective, and long lasting. Best choice for photo displays where lights and/or windows may cause unwanted reflections.
2. Glossy Lamination - Shiny finish on this laminate makes it stand out brilliantly, but also makes it difficult to see the graphic, due to reflections of light or windows opposite. Also scratches easily, and soon looks the worse for wear. Not a wise choice for trade show or ad display graphics.
3. Dry Erase Laminate - A specialty laminate that allows for the use of dry erase markers to be used on the finished mounted print and erased as desired.
4. Weather Shield - A special laminate that has been formulated to be protect prints that are to be used out doors. High in UV protection, they also protect against weather, heat, rain, etc.
5. Deep Etch Canvas Laminate - A 10mil laminate with a deep canvas texture that can be used to laminate a digital print of an oil painting giving the illusion that the reproduction is actually a canvas.
6. Encapsulate Laminating - Laminating both sides of a trimmed print, leaving an 1/8" bead of laminate around the print.
7. Wrap Laminating - Covering the print with laminate, allowing for an inch of extra laminate to extend beyoncd the edge of print which is then wrapped around the edge of the mounting board and sealed on the back to prevent moisture, wind or dirt to encroach.

1. Steel Etch Laminate - A pressure sensitive laminate with an apparent steel etch texture beneath the surface causing an interesting effect to some photos.
2. Ice Texture Laminate - Unique random texture that appears to be ice on glass or metal.
3. Leather Texture Laminate - Offers the look and feel of leather on the surface. Limited application.
4. Sparkle Laminate - Looks best on flower prints. Random holographic light sparkles radiate from the print as light moves around it.