Laminating Machine vs. Do it yourself

[seashell724]

Hi there,
I have been wondering if anyone has a self laminating machine or just buys laminating packages and does it by hand?

If you have a machine do you like it? How much does the laminating paper cost you?

If you don't have one, how has self laminating been going for ya?

Thanks!

 

[jtanddolly]

I have a laminating machine and I have purchased the do it yourself sheets. I got the machine at Walmart and I think it was around $28.00, and defintely worth it as I use it all the time for parties, name tags, travel games, etc. I like the machine much better as it is quicker and does a better job. I think the cost of the laminating paper for the machine and the do it yourself pouches is camparible for both products, but you can check in the office supply section at Walmart to make sure. (if anything the paper for the machine may be less.) The machine (in my opinion) does a better job at laminating and is much quicker than the do it your self sheets. The one that I bought at Walmart is pretty small and doesn't take up a lot of space. The only downside to the machine is Walmart doesn't sell the thicker heavier weight laminating paper that would be nice for luggage tags. Instead I use trading card covers as they are super thick and the perfect size!

Hope that helps!

 

[scrapah1]

I just bought a laminating machine and a bunch of pouches from mybinding.com. They were really reasonable (if you are willing to buy in bulk). I bought one of the cheaper machines that can laminate up to 8.5" by 11 or 14" (can't remember which). I am really excited to try and bought some luggage pouches too. Not sure how soon I will get to use it but when I do I will post back (unless you are ready to go this weekend then I might be a bit too late).
April

 

[seashell724]

Thank you! i didn't know Walmart sold them that cheap! I have only seen expensive ones. I will look into it!
I am not in a huge rush so if anyone else has any comments please let me know!

PS: Dolly, I am clicking on your shared link and it isn't working.

 

[jtanddolly]

Thank you! i didn't know Walmart sold them that cheap! I have only seen expensive ones. I will look into it!
I am not in a huge rush so if anyone else has any comments please let me know!

PS: Dolly, I am clicking on your shared link and it isn't working.

I'm not sure why my link isn't working for you...I just tried it and it went right to my things. Try again and let me know if you still can't get to them.

 

[seashell724]

Still not working but it could be my computer. I bet if I re-boot it may load. I'll try again later! Thanks so much.

 

[seashell724]

It works now Dolly! Thanks!

 

[balletmom97]

I also have a machine and I get my supplies from laminationdepot (dot) com

When I'm in a hurry, I sometimes use my my clothes iron for lamination. Just be sure to throw a dishtowel between the iron and the plastic! (My machine is old and gets cranky if I am doing too many things.)

For large items, I go to our local library or one of the teacher supply stores. Their lamination is thinner, but it gets the job done for posters, etc..

 

[LittleMissMagic]

I have the Xyron 800 laminating machine. It laminates paper up to 12" in width. There are also smaller models available. I love it and have been using it for 6-7 years, now. It was definitely worth the investment.

 

[seashell724]

Ooo! I never thought of a teacher supply store!

Our local Staples does laminating but it comes out SO thick and harsh that I once gave myself a massive cut with it.