How to Use the GBC Creative Laminator

If you need to protect and preserve important documents, one of the best ways to do so is by running them through a pouch laminator. One such device is the GBC Creative Laminator, a fairly compact device that's perfect for home, office, and school use. This machine has a 9-inch feed opening so it can be used to laminate a variety of documents that are letter-sized or smaller such as business cards, marketing materials, and so on. Here is a step-by-step guide to using the Creative Laminator:

• To start, plug this device in and turn it on. The Creative Laminator needs about 6 minutes to warm up, so you might want to turn it on ahead of time. This machine only has one temperature setting so you don't need to adjust any settings which is nice and convenient.
• Now it's time to select a laminating pouch for your document. This laminator can handle pouches that are either 3 or 5 mil thick. You should choose a pouch that's slightly larger than your document so that it will be completely encapsulated. If you want, you can trim away excess film once the laminated item has cooled off.
• You need to use a carrier when using the Creative Laminator. The carrier will prevent adhesive from gumming up the interior of your machine. It also protects the document from heat and it reduces the risk of pouch jams. Center your item in the carrier and place it in the machine's feed opening. The folded edge needs to go in first.
• Once your document is placed in the feed opening, the Creative Laminator will begin laminating automatically. It takes about a minute to laminate a letter-sized document so you won't have to wait very long. When the item comes out of the machine, place it aside and let it cool off.
• Keep in mind that this device is meant to laminate documents and photographs only. You should never use it to laminate three-dimensional items including kids' artwork that's decorated with glitter. Laminating anything other than documents and photographs will eventually damage the machine. If that happens, you'll either need to repair or replace your machine, which can be expensive. This laminator does have a 1-year warranty although you hopefully won't need to use it.
• Repeat the above steps if you have any other documents to laminate. When you're done, turn off the Creative Laminator to protect the motor and conserve power.

Using the GBC Creative Laminator is easy, as you can see. The most important thing to remember is to use a carrier whenever you laminate your materials. Unless you use a carrier, adhesive will build up inside the machine which can damage essential parts and potentially cause more pouch jams. As long as you use a carrier, you'll find it quick and easy to laminate your important documents.

If you have any other questions or comments about this article please feel free to
email us at sales@mybinding.com or call us at 1-800-944-4573

Written by Jeff McRitchie
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