In the world of marketing and branding, stickers have become indispensable tools. They serve as powerful promotional assets, prominently featuring a company's logo or branding elements. These branding stickers are strategically placed on product packaging, promotional materials, and even employed as standalone marketing instruments. One intriguing aspect of these stickers is their ability to be custom-shaped or "die-cut," allowing them to stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Purpose of Laminating Stickers
Lamination, a process of applying a protective layer over stickers, serves several key purposes:
Protection
One of the primary functions of lamination is to shield stickers from the damaging effects of the environment. This protective layer acts as a barrier against rain, harsh sunlight, and the everyday wear and tear that stickers endure. At CustomStickers, all of our stickers are waterproof and durable even outdoors or going through the dishwasher.
Durability
Lamination significantly extends the lifespan of stickers. By reinforcing their structural integrity, stickers become more robust and resistant to damage. Because we use quality laminate that is engineered for durability, our stickers can last for 5+ years even outdoors.
Enhanced Appearance
The application of a laminate not only safeguards stickers but also enhances their overall aesthetics. It can enrich the colors, making them more vibrant and professional-looking.
Versatility
Laminated stickers can thrive in diverse environments, maintaining their pristine condition. Whether exposed to varying temperatures or handling by numerous individuals, they remain resilient.
Scratch Resistance
Particularly useful for stickers on surfaces that frequently rub against other objects, such as phone case stickers, lamination helps prevent scratches over time.
Printing Processes That Don't Necessarily Need Lamination
UV screen printing stands out as a printing method renowned for its durability. This eco-friendly technique ensures that stickers retain their vividness for an impressive 3 to 5 years, even when subjected to direct sunlight.
The downside of UV screen printed stickers is that UV Printers can't achieve the resolution or color gamut of other print types. So while UV printed stickers may be durable, they won't look as crisp or clear.
Types of Laminates
Lamination isn't a one-size-fits-all process; it offers various options to cater to specific needs:
- Matte Vinyl Laminate
- Gloss Vinyl Laminate
- Gloss Polyester Laminate
- Floor Graphic Laminate
- Pebbled Surface Laminate
- BOPP Selfwound Laminate for Roll Labels
Vinyl laminate will typically be the most durable material for outdoor stickers. However, polyester can also be quite strong. Selfwound laminates are typically quite thin (under 2mil) and won't hold up under harsh conditions. They are best suited for label applications that are temporary in nature.
Check out our Matte and Glossy laminated stickers.
Drawbacks of Laminating Stickers
While lamination brings numerous benefits, it's essential to acknowledge its downsides:
Cost
One of the most significant drawbacks of lamination is the additional expense it incurs in the sticker production process. It's crucial to weigh the cost against the benefits when deciding whether to laminate.
Environmental Concerns
The increased use of plastic in lamination can contribute to environmental degradation, making it a less sustainable choice. Businesses must consider their ecological footprint when opting for lamination.
This downside can be offset to a large degree, by using recyclable laminate materials. That is what we do at CustomStickers.com.
Final Thoughts
At CustomStickers.com, we believe that laminated stickers offer numerous advantages for a wide range of applications. They substantially enhance both durability and overall quality while elevating their visual appeal. By default, we apply lamination to all our stickers. However, if you prefer to have your stickers without lamination, just let us know, and we will gladly accommodate your request.
