You can find out complete selection of products - including supplies, equipment, and sale items - listed here, on our website. Eliminating the costs of a printed catalog is one of the ways that we are able to keep our prices so low.

We highly recommend keeping the box that your machine came in, along with all packaging materials. Some manufacturers require that machines being returned for warranty repairs are packaged in their original box, and will charge a re-boxing fee for machines returned in other packaging.

This new legislation pertains to products that are "primarily designed for children 12 and under" such as toys, cribs, strollers, etc. to protect them from unsafe levels of lead and phthalates. We do not sell any plastic products that are primarily designed for children, so this new legislation does not apply to any of our products. Although this legislation does not apply to our class of products, we can assure you that none of our products contain lead. In addition, phthalates are only found in PVC plastics. None of our laminating pouch or roll products are made from PVC plastic and therefore do not contain any phthalates.

Like most adhesive-based products, unused laminating film will degrade over time. The shelf-life for both laminating roll film and pouches is generally between 18 months to two years, after which the adhesive will begin to deteriorate. When buying laminating film in bulk, it is recommended that you buy no more than what you will use in a year so that the adhesive will remain at its optimum level of performance.

Because standard laminating film is thermally-activated, it should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If the film is exposed to high temperatures for an extended period of time, the adhesive may activate and the layers can fuse together (rendering the film unusable).

According to the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries, Inc.'s publication, Scrap Specifications Circular dated 11/19/07, plastic films are considered "green" products as the films and their resins can be 100% recycled and re-used.

In addition, it should be noted that by laminating paper products, the average life of a paper product is extended by 7 to 10 times. By extending the life of the printed product, the need for additional paper for reprinting documents is greatly reduced thereby creating a greener environment.

We offer a variety of film types. View our chart for more details about our film and adhesive ratios, film winding, and the running temperatures of our roll laminating film and laminating pouches.

It is important to understand the key variables of roll laminating film (core size, film grade, roll width, and film thickness) so that you can purchase film that is compatible with your machine.

Core size refers to the size of the mandrel that holds the film on the laminator. There are three standard core sizes: 1", 2-1/4", and 3". The size of the core often correlates to the length of the roll, since a longer roll requires a thicker mandrel to support it.

Film grade refers to the quality of the laminating film, determined by the adhesive to film ratio. Standard film is made of a low-cost material, ideal for laminating standard 20lb paper with light ink coverage. Professional film has a lower melting temperature and more aggressive adhesive, ideal for digital or offset printing. Digital film has a low melting temperature, ideal for digital prints. It reduces graphic fading and protects against moisture.

Roll width refers to the width of the laminating film, available as narrow as 9" to as wide as 60". Roll laminators cannot use films that are wider than their specified maximum widths, however they can use rolls that are narrower. We recommmend purchasing compatible film that best matches your document size to minimize waste.

Film thickness refers to a single layer of laminating film (film and adhesive). We offer as thin as 1.5 mil to as thick as 10 mil. Attempting to laminate with film that is either too thin or too thick will result in improper adhesion and can potentially damage your machine.

This information is supplied as a general guideline. Quite often, the laminating temperature will vary depending upon the type of material you are laminating, the accuracy of your machine's thermostat, and many other factors.

As a general rule, start with a medium temperature. If the pouch still looks cloudy after running it through your machine, laminate it at a slightly higher temperature, and then repeat this process until the pouch is clear. If the temperature is too hot, the pouch will warp, have ripples or have heat bubbles.

There are two primary types of roll laminators: standard laminators which feed a mandrel through the hollow core of your roll film, and EZ Load laminators, which require special roll film with endcaps that rest on fixed saddles. We currently offer a small selection of EZ Fit Roll Laminating Film with endcaps that are compatible with the following EZ Load machines: GBC Ultima 65, GBC Ultima 55, and GBC Pinnacle 27. If you've purchased EZ Fit film but have a standard laminator that utilizes a mandrel, simply remove the endcaps and load the film onto your laminator like usual.

The mil thickness listed refers to a single side. For example, a 10 mil pouch has a thickness of 10 mil per layer, for a total pouch thickness of 20 mil.

A carrier sheet is a heavy cardstock sheet folded in half, with a silicone coating on the interior folded side only. Carriers protect laminating pouches from scratches during the laminating process, and prevent excess adhesive from oozing out of the pouch and into your machine. They also prevent pouches from wrapping around the rollers and causing jams.

Carriers are not generally required for pouch laminators with silicone coated rollers, as excess adhesive that is transferred from the laminating pouch to the rollers will not stick and will fall off of the rollers. Though some still prefer to use carriers to keep the rollers as clean as possible.

Carriers are highly recommended for pouch laminators with non-silicone rollers. If a carrier is not used, the adhesive that "oozes" from the edge of the laminating pouch will stick to the rollers and will cause uneven and poor quality laminating.

Laminating pouches are available in hundreds of unique sizes to accommodate the most popular document sizes. The dimensions listed are the actual size of the plastic. Laminating pouches need to be larger than the insert document in order to achieve a proper seal, therefore a minimum border of 1/8" is required on all sides of your document.

The easiest way to determine your ideal pouch size is to simply measure the document, then add 1/4" to both the length and the height. The resulting measurements will represent the appropriate laminating pouch size for your insert.

If you cannot find the exact pouch to meet your needs, try sizing up. Margins larger than 1/8" will not cause any problems. You can choose to either leave the larger border intact, or trim it down to 1/8" using a paper cutter or a pair of scissors. If the pouch that you are using is substantially larger than your insert document, then you may notice small bubbles forming in the areas where the layers of excess film meet.

If you plan to use laminating pouches with pre-punched slots, or plan to punch slots in afterwards with a manual punch, then you will need to increase the margin to account for the slot. As standard slots are 1/8" tall, you will need to account for an extra 3/8" (which includes the slot and margins around it), plus the standard 1/8" margin for your document. Therefore, you will need a minimum 1/2" margin on the side with the slot.

Because carrier sheets dissipate heat, you may have to increase the temperature on your laminator in order to achieve a proper seal. You may want to perform a test run when using a carrier for the first time to ensure that your settings are correct before laminating the actual document. Carriers are recommended for any pouch laminator equipped with non-silicone rollers, however you may want to refer to the owner's manual for your machine for specific instructions.

When selecting a pouch laminator, you'll need to identify the features that are the most important to your specific needs. If you will be producing a high volume of laminated documents, you may want to look for a machine with higher laminating speeds. If you regularly use thick laminating pouches, such as 7-10 mil, then you'll need a machine that can handle thicker pouches. If you only laminate IDs or badges, a smaller model with a 4" or 6" max width may be ideal.

Nearly all pouch laminators are thermal machines, which use heat to fuse the layers of your document and pouch together. Machines can be equipped with either heated plates or heated rollers, each with their own benefits. For low volume use, a machine with two rollers will be sufficient. For mid volume use (usually offices and schools), a machine with 2-6 rollers will be ideal. For high volume use (usually professional print and copy shops), a machine with 4-10 rollers will be ideal.

Most pouch laminators also offer variable temperature control, which allows you to easily adjust the heat level based on the thickness of the laminating pouch. Most also include a reverse feature, allowing you to clear jammed or misfed documents. Other popular features include: auto-shutoff or stand-by mode, cool rollers (to reduce curling), programmable memory settings, and photo lamination capabilities.

All of our laminating pouches have rounded corners on all four sides.

Yes, we offer several sizes of laminating pouches with pre-punched slots. Should you need a slot punch on any of our other pouches, we also sell manual slot punches to enable you to punch any pouch to your specifications.

Dry erase markers can be used on glossy laminating pouches or roll film. However, depending on the brand of marker, as well as other external factors, it may not erase as well. Therefore, we recommend that you test your laminated document with different dry erase markers to determine which results are acceptable to you.

Our testing has shown that lighter colors tend to erase better over time than others, while black and red colors tend to leave a stain over time that is difficult to erase.

1 mil represents one one-thousandth of an inch (1 mil = 0.001"). The listed thickness includes both the adhesive layer and the protective film layer. The larger the number, the thicker the laminating film. 1.5 mil is the thinnest standard film that we offer, and it can be easily creased, bent, and rolled up. 3 mil is also very thin, and can be easily folded. 5 mil film is more rigid, but can still be folded. 7 mil material is very rigid, but still pliable. 10 mil is the thickest and resists any sort of bending or folding, similar to a credit card or driver's license. Generally speaking, the thicker the laminate, the longer it will last.

Both "glossy" and "matte" laminating film is clear, however matte has a non-glare finish and reflects very little light. Due to its non-glare finish, laminating with matte film will "mute" or "dull" bright colors making them less vivid. You can also write on matte film with a pen, pencil or marker.

Also called self-adhesive, self-sealing, or cold laminating pouches, self-laminating pouches are made from pressure-sensitive laminating film and do not need heat in order to seal the document. This is ideal if your documents are heat-sensitive, such as digital prints. It may also be a good choice if you do not have access to a laminating machine, or if you only intend to laminate a few documents.

To laminate with self-laminating pouches, simply remove the backing that lines the adhesive side of the pouch, insert your document, and firmly press the layers together to create a seal. You may also use a pouch laminator with cold laminating capabilities.

Sticky-back laminating pouches are similar to traditional thermal laminating pouches in that they require heat to create a seal around the document. Their unique feature is that they have an adhesive backing, which allows the laminated document to be stuck to a folder, signboard, bound presentation, or any other smooth surface. After placing the document within the pouch and running it through your laminator at the proper temperature, simply peel off the release liner on the back of the pouch to expose the adhesive and apply it to any surface you desire.

Primarily used when creating ID cards, badges, or luggage tags, a manual slot punch can be used to create holes in your laminated document to accommodate plastic loops, badge clips, straps, hooks, and other attachment types. The standard slot size is 1/8" x 5/8".

Slot punches are offered in both hand-held and tabletop varieties, and the single-punch capacity varies based upon the thickness of the material that is being punched.

• Hand-held slot punches function similarly to traditional hole punches, by using a die and gentle pressure applied by hand to form a hole.
• Tabletop slot punches vary by model, but generally have a larger capacity and use a larger handle for more leverage and punching strength.

There are two primary heating methods for thermal roll laminators. A heat shoe laminator has two heat shoes (teflon-coated metal which heats the film to activate the adhesive), located immediately in front of the rollers. As the laminating film is pulled into the laminator, it passes over the heat shoes, which melt the adhesive layer on the laminating film. From there, the rollers apply gentle, uniform pressure to both sides of the film to adhere them together, encapsulating the document. Because the film has to travel away from the heat shoe to the rollers after the adhesive has been melted, heat shoe laminators are often run at a higher operating temperature.

Heated roll laminators have heating elements located within the rollers themselves, so that the heat is applied simultaneously with the pressure. They generally use less electricity than heat shoe laminators (which can also experience small scratches on the surface of the film as it is drawn across the heat shoes).

Each binding style has a distinct hole pattern, and only works with binding spines that correspond to that specific binding method:

Wire binding uses two punch patterns: 3:1 pitch (three holes per inch) and 2:1 pitch (two holes per inch). The 3:1 wire binding pattern uses square holes, and has a total of 32 holes per 11" sheet. The 2:1 pattern uses rectangular holes, and has a total of 21 holes per 11" sheet. Some machines may be dual-function or modular, allowing both pitches to be punched.

Coil binding uses a punch pattern of 4:1 pitch (four holes per inch), with 4mm circular holes. Most binding coils are available in 12" lengths with a total of 48 loops, which allows you to create crimped ends when binding standard documents. Some coil binding machines may punch oval holes instead of circular holes, which helps document pages to turn more easily.(Note: 4:1 pitch is the most common coil binding pattern in the United States and Europe, but other some other countries, including Canada, use a 5:1 pitch).

Comb binding uses a punch pattern of 19 rectangular holes per 11". This corresponds to the 19 prongs present on comb binding spines. Each hole measures 8mm x 3mm.

VeloBind (also called hot-knife or strip binding) uses a punch pattern of 11 circular holes measuring 1/8", and is designed to work with 11-pin VeloBind strips. There are also 4 and 6-pin styles which are far less common. 4-pin VeloBind spines can be used in conjunction with the 11-hole punch pattern, but the 6-hole hot knife strip only works with specific binding machines.

Comb binding involves two main steps: punching the document, and opening the binding comb for insertion. We offer a variety of comb binding machines with manual or electric operation for these processes, as well as some which have both. Machines with both an electric punch and opener will allow you to bind documents faster.

It is important to note that some machines may have only one function. This allows for an operator for each process, ideal for high-production environments.

There are a number of other factors to consider, such as the max capacity of pages that can be punched at a time (ranging from 6-55 sheets), or the max size which can be bound (letter size or larger). Some machines may also have disengaging pins, which is ideal for non-standard paper sizes, or other specialty documents like three-hole paper. Some machines may also offer a variety of comb openers, from plastic to metal.

The exact diameter needed for your document varies based upon the thickness of the inner sheets of paper as well as the covers. Below is a chart that provides recommendations based on both the number of pages (using regular 20lb bond) and the thickness of the stack being bound.

There are many important factors to consider when comparing coil binding machines.

Punch capacity is a measure of how many 20lb pages can be punched in a single pull. For example, if your machine has a 20-page punch capacity, you will need to punch in 20-page increments, or less if you are working with thicker paper or cover stock.

Punch operation can be manual or electric, depending on the machine. Manual punches are operated with a single handle or bar. Electric punches are operated with a foot pedal or button, and often have higher punch capacities.

Electric coil inserters are motorized rollers which help insert coil into your document. The coil binding spine is inserted into the first few holes manually, then pressed up against the roller while it is spinning. This twists the coil and advances it through the remaining holes of the document. While it is possible to manually insert plastic binding coils, electric coil insertion is much faster.

Open throat allows for punching documents larger than the standard 11", by leaving the excess page length to extend beyond the punch so that the unpunched portion can be turned around, reinserted into the punch, and punched again in a second pass.

Disengageable pins allow the user to selectively disengage punching dies in order to leave some holes unpunched. This is extremely useful when working with unusual document sizes or specialty paper (such as three-hole punched sheets). Machines can have partially or fully disengageable pins.

Coil crimping pliers are required to trim and crimp the edge of your coil-bound document, keeping the ends from twisting out of the holes.

The exact diameter needed for your document varies based upon the thickness of the inner sheets of paper as well as the covers. Below is a chart that provides recommendations based on both the number of pages (using regular 20lb bond) and the thickness of the stack being bound.

Twin loop wire binding is tamper-resistant, unlike coil and comb binding which can be easily removed and replaced by hand. Wire-bound documents require specialized equipment to unbind and rebind. They also lay flat when opened, and pages can be completely turned to the back (similar to a spiral-bound notebook) for ease of use if writing within the document.

Wire binding is also strong, versatile, and sophisticated, which is why it's the most common binding style in the legal and finance industries. Twin loop wires can also be used to create custom calendars in tandem with wire calendar hangers.

Twin loop binding wires are offered in two pitch patterns - 2:1 and 3:1. The 2:1 pattern has two rectangular holes per inch, with each letter-sized sheet containing a total of 21 holes. The 3:1 pattern is made up of three square holes per inch, with each letter-sized sheet having 32 holes. Unless your wire binding machine is dual-function or modular (which would allow you to change out your punching dies), it will only punch one of the two pitches.

3:1 pitch is designed for smaller documents, with wires ranging in size from 1/4" to 9/16". The 3:1 pitch wires will accommodate booklets 20-120 pages thick (or 3/16" to 1/2" thick). The 2:1 pitch pattern is reserved for larger documents totaling between 110 and 260 pages (or 9/16" to 1-1/8" thick). Twin loop wires that have a 2:1 pitch are available in sizes from 5/8" to 1-1/4".

The exact diameter needed for your document varies based upon the thickness of the inner sheets of paper as well as the covers. Below is a chart that provides recommendations based on both the number of pages (using regular 20# bond) and the thickness of the stack being bound.

Please note: Wire sizes listed in red are 3:1 pitch; wire sizes listed in black are 2:1 pitch.

Clear binding covers are the most common cover style for business reports, proposals, manuals, and more. They allow the first page of the document to be viewed without opening it, making it a great alternative to custom-printed hard covers. There are five standard clear cover styles: PVC, non-glare, heat-resistant, matte-suede translucent, and matte-gloss translucent.

• PVC covers are the most popular style, and have the widest range of sizes and thicknesses available.
• Non-glare covers offer just that: a glare-free finish.
• Heat-resistant covers are designed to withstand the extreme temperatures, both during thermal binding processes or while in high-temperature environments like manufacturing industries.
• Matte-suede covers have a smooth, matte finish on one side and a pebbled texture with a frosted finish on the other side.
• Matte-gloss covers have a glossy finish on one side and a satin-like, anti-reflective finish on the other to help reduce glare.

Many binding machines offer partially or fully disengageable pins, but what exactly does that mean? Binding machines use a die to punch the hole pattern in your documents, and each pin corresponds to the location of one of the holes. Being able to disengage some or all of the pins means that you can choose to eliminate specific holes from the punch pattern, which can help you to accommodate non-standard document sizes, specialty paper (such as three-hole punched paper), or specialty projects like calendars.

A plastic binding comb is a round binding spine with 19 plastic prongs, which are opened and inserted into the corresponding holes of your document. Combs are available in a wide range of sizes, accommodating as few as 12 pages to as many as 425 pages. They come in standard 11" lengths to fit letter size documents. Comb sizing is based upon the diameter of the comb (in inches). Combs come in a wide variety of colors, and allow you to modify bound documents with ease and without damage. It is an ideal choice for documents that require frequent updates.

A twin loop wire, also called duo-wire or wire-o spine, is a durable and secure binding spine. It has two signature hole patterns: 2:1 and 3:1 pitch. Twin loop wires are available in a wide range of sizes, accommodating as few as 5 pages to as many as 260 pages. Twin loop wires come in 11 standard colors. It is an ideal choice for documents that need to lay flat or be completely turned to the back. It is the ideal choice for creating custom calendars.

A Spiral-O wire comb has a similar appearance to twin loop wires, but is specially designed to fit the same 19-hole comb binding punch pattern. Spiral-O wires offer the same durable, tamper-proof, and lay-flat binding as twin loop wire binding. Spiral-O wires are ideal for those who already own a comb binding punch, however, they do require a wire closer to secure documents closed. Spiral-O wires are available in a wide range of sizes, accommodating as few as 20 pages to as many as 220 pages, and come in 7 standard colors.

A wire closer is a specialized device that closes twin loop wires and Spiral-O wires in order to complete the binding process. We offer both manual and electric wire closers, which all function by applying uniform pressure to the wire binding spine in order to close the wire and secure the documents in place.

Though most wire binding machines feature built-in wire closers, they are also available as stand-alone units which be used to increase efficiency in a production environment. Since Spiral-O wires utilize the same punch pattern as comb binding, a wire closer is used in conjunction with a comb binding machine in order to finish the bind.

Wire calendar hangers are small, sturdy pieces of wire that have a shallow curve located in the center. This transforms bound documents into wall-hanging calendars. The curve is aligned with a notch on the edge of the document, created using a half-moon punch, allowing the calendar to be hung using a nail or push pin while still providing clearance for the pages to be turned. They are available in two sizes: 6" wires that accommodate calendars 6"-9" wide, and 10" wires that accommodate calendars 10" or larger.

A Chicago screw post, also called a binding post, is made up of two distinct pieces: a threaded post attached to a head and a cylinder attached to a matching head. To bind documents with a Chicago screw post, first punch your document with a single hole. Insert the cylinder through the document, then insert the threaded post end and tighthen. Chicago screw posts are ideal for documents that require frequent changes, such as menus, swatch books, manuals, and architectural and engineering drawings.

Please note: Chicago screw posts are for bookbinding only.

A modular binding machine allows you to utilize multiple punch patterns (such as 4:1 coil, 2:1 and 3:1 wire, 19-hole comb, and more) within a single machine. They use self-contained punching dies that are inserted into the machine, rather than using a built-in punch. Modular binding machines are ideal for copy and print shops that perform a variety of binding styles.

Many modular binding machines only offer punching capabilities, and do not offer inserting or binding features. There are many cost-effective add-on modules - such as wire closers, comb openers, and coil inserters - to provide a complete binding solution.

Polycovers are binding covers made from durable materials like polyethylene and polypropylene. They are available in a number of colors, opacities, thicknesses, textures, and decorative finishes. There are several distinct polycover finishes available: crystal, grain, hologram, leather, stripe, and sand.

• Leather texture covers are the most popular choice, and feature a glossy finish similar to that of treated leather.
• Crystal texture covers are translucent, and have a diamond plate finish.
• Hologram covers are semi-transparent, with a reflective, holographic finish.
• Grain texture covers are opaque with a medium texture and satin finish.
• Sand texture covers are opaque with a fine texture and satin finish.
• Striped covers are translucent, and have a fine, grooved texture.

Thermal laminating pouches are the easiest, most error-proof way to laminate your documents. Thermal laminating pouches are available in a wide array of pre-cut sizes, designed to fit the most common paper sizes and document types. The pouches are sealed on one side only, which allows you to open the pouch like a book and place your document inside. In order to create a proper seal around the outer edge, you will need to use a pouch that is a minimum of 1/8" larger on all sides than the item that you are laminating.

Pre-heat your pouch laminator to the proper temperature, based on the mil thickness of your pouch. Open the laminating pouch and place your document inside, being sure to center it so a proper seal can form around the edges. Then insert the pouch into the machine, sealed edge first.

Note: Depending on the pouch laminator that you are using, a carrier sheet may be required. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions.

After the pouch exits the machine, lay it on a flat surface and allow it to cool for a few moments.

Unlike thermal laminating pouches, self-laminating pouches pouches do not need to be run through a pouch laminator in order to achieve a proper seal. However, some machines may feature a cold lamination setting that can provide the pressure needed to seal the pouch. They do have a few similarities to thermal pouches, in that they require a border around the outer edge of the document to create a seal, and that once the film is applied to the document it cannot be removed.

To apply a self-laminating pouch to your document, begin by placing your document face down in the pouch with the adhesive side on top. Once positioned properly, slowly roll the adhesive side onto the document, peeling off the paper backing as you go. Press the air bubbles out of the pouch using your finger tips, then press firmly around all edges to create a seal.

To use a carrier sheet, simply insert your document into a laminating pouch, then place the pouch inside of the carrier. Make sure to adjust the temperature of your pouch laminator according to the manufacturer's instructions. Then run the carrier containing the pouch through the laminator. Once your document passes through the laminating machine, remove it from the carrier and allow it to cool.

Every roll laminator is different, but most machines follow a similar process. First, we recommend that you only load film onto a cold machine to avoid the risk of burns. Start by removing the film mandrels from the machine. This may require loosening screws to release some of the tension. Remove the cardboard cores from any leftover empty rolls, then feed the new roll of film onto the mandrel. Note: Some roll laminators may have specialized mandrels that limit which direction the film can be loaded. Be sure to check the manufacturer's manual to avoid incorrect film winding.

Place the mandrels back onto the machine, and secure in place. For the top roll, gently pull 12"-18" of film and feed it through the rollers as directed in your manual. Leave some extra film hanging in the front. For the bottom roll, gently pull the film and feed it around the J-bar, overlapping the film from the top roll in front of the heated rollers.

Replace the feeding table and any other pieces that were removed. Insert a threading card, or any sturdy piece of cardboard, between the two heated rollers. Engage the motor of your roll laminator so that the card and film are pulled into the machine. Once they exit through the back, leave a small tail to prevent them from winding back into the machine, and trim the remaining excess. Finally, adjust the tension until any large wrinkles disappear.

Coil crimping pliers are an essential tool when binding documents with plastic spiral coil. Coil crimpers perform two distinct actions - they cut the coil to fit your document, and crimp the end so that it stays in place. Here is a closer look at crimping plastic spiral coils.

Hold the coil crimpers so that the red dot on the top of the pliers faces up. Hold the document so that the coil that needs to be crimped is at the top. Insert the pliers so that the lower jaw is below the coil rung that you want to crimp and the top jaw is positioned above it. Squeeze the handles to cut the coil and continue to apply pressure until the pliers are completely closed in order to crimp it. Repeat the process on the other end of the coil to finish the bind.

Creating a custom calendar with wire calendar hangers is easy! Here is what you need:

• 3:1 pitch wire binding machine
• 5/16" twin loop binding wires (3:1 pitch)
• Half-moon punch
• Wire calendar hangers
• Printed calendar document

Begin by using the half-moon punch to create a semi-circle notch in the center of the edge to be bound. Then align your document in your wire binding machine (so that there are an even number of holes on both sides), and punch.

Note: this may require you to disengage a few pins to avoid partial holes.

Cut your twin loop wires down to the appropriate length for each side of the top edge. Then insert your pages and wire calendar hanger onto the wires and use your wire closer to complete the bind.

VeloBinding, also called hot knife binding), is a professional binding style that is a lot easier than it appears. All you need is a VeloBind machine, some VeloBind strips, and your document.First, align your document to the machine and punch.

Note: You may want to punch thicker covers or stock separately.

Remove the document, and insert the VeloBind strip with prongs through the punched holes. The prongs should protrude through the back cover.

Place the other VeloBind strip into the binding channel of the machine, aligning it to the pins. Place your document, prongs side down, over the top of the strip and into the machine. Initiate the thermal binding process according to the manufacturer's instructions. The machine will use heat to trim and melt the two strips together.

A manufacturer's manual or operation guide is included with each laminating and binding machine. You can find a copy of the manual for most machines in the product listing details. If you have trouble finding the manual for your machine, please reach out to our customer service team by calling (800) 925-0054 or emailing service@laminationdepot.com.

Many of our laminating and binding machines come with a manufacturer's warranty. Should your machine require repairs, first check if your machine is still within warranty. If you are unable to find this information, please contact our customer service team and have the order number, model number, and serial number available.

Some machines may be repaired at your location and do not require you to return them to us or the manufacturer. All other machines must be returned at the customer's expense via insured, pre-paid freight to the address provided by our customer service team. A return merchandise authorization (RMA) must be obtained prior to returning any product. If your machine's repair is covered under warranty, it will be repaired promptly and returned to you.

Out-of-warranty machines will require a non-refundable inspection fee of $50 to be paid upon returning the machine for repairs. After inspecting your machine, we will prepare an estimate of the repairs necessary and obtain your authorization prior to the repairs being done. If the repairs are authorized, your inspection fee will be credited toward the repair costs. Please allow 3-5 business days for repairs plus the time in transit to and from the destination.

When a laminating pouch has a rippled appearance after being run through the machine, it likely means that the heat is set too high. If you own a machine with adjustable temperature, lower the heat down incrementally until the waviness disappears. If your machine does not allow variable temperature, then you may not be using a pouch with the correct mil thickness, or you may be required to use a carrier sheet. Refer to the owner's manual for additional information.

Since carrier sheets add a barrier between the heating element and the laminating film, you may need to increase the temperature to ensure that the proper amount of heat makes it through the carrier and onto the film. Conversely, if you are accustomed to laminating with a carrier and need to laminate without one, you may want to lower the temperature since the heating elements will be making direct contact with the film instead of passing through a carrier beforehand. For more information, check out the recommended temperature guide for our film.

If you notice that a large amount of adhesive oozes out of your laminated items, then you may be laminating at too high of a temperature. Try reducing the laminating temperature until you reach a point where the excess glue has been eliminated but the laminating pouch is still sealing properly. Depending on the specifications of your machine, you may also want to try using a carrier sheet to help prevent any adhesive from sticking to your rollers.

New laminating pouches that have not yet been laminated will have a cloudy or milky appearance. This is due to the adhesive that lines the film. Once you place your document inside of the pouch and run it through your laminating machine, the adhesive will melt and the pouch will become clear.

If you have run your document through your laminator and the pouch still appears cloudy, the laminating temperature may be too low. Simply increase the temperature in small increments until the cloudiness disappears. If your machine does not allow variable temperature, than you may be using a pouch that is thicker than recommended, or may be using a carrier sheet with a laminator model that does not require it. Refer to the owner's manual for additional information.

Like cloudiness, improper sealing is a sign that the temperature is too low. Simply increase the temperature in small increments until the cloudiness disappears. Poor adhesion and delamination can also occur if you are laminating documents that were printed on a laser or inkjet printer. Documents with heavy ink coverage should be laminated using a photo laminator.

It is recommended that you leave a 1/8" border around your document in order to allow the laminating pouch to maintain a proper seal. Trimming away more than that may result in some or all of the edges becoming exposed to moisture or humidity. When this occurs, the paper absorbs the moisture and causes the lamination adhesive to release or delaminate.