Choosing the Right Laminating Pouch

Do you have documents to protect from weather, fingerprints, and everyday use? Do you have business cards, menus, and identification cards that need to be laminated but maybe you aren’t sure what to use? Laminating pouches are your answer! Laminating pouches are a type of film used to protect and shieldbusiness cards, restaurant menus, reports, covers, luggage tags, photographs, scrapbooks, and signs. They are sold pre-cut and vary in size, shape, and thickness.

The two primary considerations when purchasing a laminating pouch are the size of your document and the degree of protection needed. In general a laminating pouch should be about ¼” larger than your document in width and length, so that the edge is 1/8″ long for proper sealing. The thickness of the film determines the amount of protection that the document will have and its final inflexibility. A film that measures between 1.5 and 3 mil offers maximum flexibility and provides protection against smudges and everyday wear and tear. 5 mil films prevent creasing and shredding of the document but will give more rigidity and less flexibility. The final category of 7 to 10 mil film will give the most protection and least flexibility. This is ideal for important documents that are handled daily and vulnerable to the most damage.  Laminating pouches are available in glossy or matt depending on the desired finish. Matte pouches however, are available in fewer sizes and thicknesses.

Glossy & Clear Thermal Lamination Pouches

Glossy/clear thermal lamination pouches are separated into three different categories, 1) standard size, 2) large, and 3) oversize pouches.

Standard Size
Standard size lamination pouches give a glasslike glossy appearance to your document. There are many options within this type of pouch. The options include business card, credit card, driver’s license, IBM/Data card, school card, jumbo, luggage tag (with or without slot), key card, military badge, postal card, circulation card or extra circulation card, index or file card, license plate, letter, legal, menu and the 4″ by 6″ card.

Each style of standard size glossy/clear thermal pouch is categorized by its size, thickness, and quantity in each box.

Large
The overall appearance of the large pouch is similar to the standard size pouch but is made with bigger measurements. They are sold in the following sizes:

• 6″ x 9″ (best for photos)
• 6.5″ x 12.5″ (for license plates)
• 9″ x 11.5″ (for letters)
• 9″ x 14.5″ (for legal papers)
• 11.25″ x 17.25″(one menu option)
• 11.5″ x 17.5″(second menu option)
• 12″ x 18″ (third menu option)

Oversize
These pouches have the same glossy glasslike appearance as the other two pouches. These measure from 19″ x 25″ to 43″ to 61″. At times certain sizes need to be ordered by the sales department because they are not in stock so call to check for availability.

Matte Pouches
These types of pouches are not glossy or glasslike. They are made to reduce glare and are given a frosted coarse appearance to achieve this. Because of their appearance and texture you can write on these with pen, pencil, or marker, while still receiving protection against smudges and smears. These can be used to laminate indoor items, as well as outdoor documents, that will be vulnerable to weather elements.

Unlike the glossy/clear thermal pouches, the selection of sizes is small. These pouches are offered in two sizes, and each size has the option of selecting either one matte finish side or a two-sided matte finish. The sizes are:

• 9″ x 11.5″
• 12″ x 18″

Another difference from the glossy/clear thermal pouches is that matte pouches are only made with a 5-mil thickness for the film.

Whatever your lamination needs, you are sure to find a lamination pouch to suit you! Make sure you accurately measure your documents and consider what it will be used for and how often it will be handled before purchasing pouches, and if you are unsure call for assistance.

Digital Whiteboards: Why You Need One For Your Business or Classroom.

How could your business benefit from purchasing and using a digital whiteboard? A digital whiteboard is connected to your computer so it simplifies meetings and literally puts everyone on the same page. You have the ability to make comments and notations over the top of programs to make a point or highlight information. You can navigate the Internet and everyone in the room can see the web pages you are viewing. A digital whiteboard will enhance any presentation as everyone in the room can see your visuals without eyestrain or changing their location. You can also connect your whiteboard to video conferencing systems or send the information to a PDA, enabling anyone in a different location to work with you on spreadsheets, designs, or other projects. This technology can decrease travel costs and increase your productivity.

They are great for classrooms as well. By using a whiteboard anyone can contribute to the discussion by drawing directly on the whiteboard. You can display DVD or movie files from your PC onto the whiteboard and no matter where a student is sitting they will be able to see. Many companies also create software specifically for primary and secondary educational settings, which include music, math, or sports templates. There is something for any class or teacher. So the real question isn’t why should you use a digital whiteboard, but which one is right for you?

There are two types of technology and two distinct formats that digital whiteboards use and it is important to know the differences in order to purchase the right one to meet your specific needs.

First, you need to know what technologies are used. In order to work correctly the software must be able to tell where you are touching the screen and there are two types of software to do this.

Electromagnetic Scanning Technology:
This requires the use of a special pen and the frame of the whiteboard detects where you have placed the pen. This type of software will usually include several pens, for multiple users or if you lose one. If the whiteboard screen is damaged you can simply replace the screen.  The Quartet IdeaShare Interactive Whiteboard is an example of an electromagnetic scanning whiteboard and comes with several pens and a stylus.

• Ideal for secondary schools, or students who are used to using pens.
• Businesses where employees primarily use pens may prefer this, as it is easier to use for everyone.

Resistive Technology:
This technology works because there are two little pieces of resistive material that have a small space between them to sense where a person is touching the screen. The coordinates of this touch are then sent to the computer monitor. You can order a GBC Quartet Q8000 Portable IdeaShare if you prefer finger touch technology.

• Finger touch is ideal for primary schools as children can use their hands to touch the screen. This increases their interaction and enthusiasm for learning.
• In hospitals or other medical offices, the finger touch may be preferred as it is easier to drag photos, diagrams, and slides.
• You do not need a special stylus to use this type of digital whiteboard, so the worry of losing the pen is obsolete and convenient for people who cannot carry a special stylus with them.

Some software companies produce both pen and finger whiteboards so a school can have both types on campus but teachers/students only need to learn how to use one kind of software.

As well as offering two types of technology, digital whiteboards also come in two formats; front or rear projection.

Front Projection:
This type of machine will sit in front of the whiteboard and projects the computer image onto the screen. They can be set onto a table or mounted on the ceiling.

This type of format is ideal for:

• Teachers or presenters who like to instruct/speak from the front of the class.

Rear Projection:
The difference from front projection is that a rear projector is mounted behind the whiteboard. There are cabinets that enclose the mounted projector and use mirrors to propel the image onto the screen. Although this is more expensive than a front projector there are several benefits:

• There is no shadow on the whiteboard.
• There is not a danger of someone damaging his or her eyes by accidentally looking directly into the projector beam.
• The cabinets are large enough to house a base computer system, DVD/Video recorder, and the cable management software to connect a visiting laptop.

All interactive whiteboards are accompanied with software that enables you to use it as a copy board. You can either use a finger or pen, depending on the board you have, and draw images on the board and then save them to the computer. With these saved images you can email or print them. Some kinds of software come with Optical Character Recognition (OCR), which recognizes handwriting on the screen and creates computer text.

No matter what your business or educational needs are, a digital whiteboard can help you. They increase your effectiveness and productivity and can decrease travel costs and hours preparing presentations or lesson plans.

Paper Cutter Blades: The Right Way To Sharpen Your Blades and Purchase and Install Replacement Blades

Do you want your paper cutter to last a long time and perform well every time you use it? One way to ensure this happens is to make sure your blades are always sharp and replaced when needed. The condition of the blades on your paper cutter determines how well your machine will work. Sharp and properly maintained blades increase the effectiveness of your cutter, extend its duration and also reduce the risk of injury. With these facts in mind, it is important to know how to sharpen cutter blades on your machine, purchase the correct replacement blades, and then properly replace the blades in your paper cutter.

Many machines, such as the Dahle Lever Style Cutters and Guillotines, have self-sharpening features, while others like the MBM Kutrimmer Paper Cutters are designed so that the blades can be removed and sharpened as part of their regular maintenance. Even with built in self-sharpening features, blades can still become dull or damaged and every manufacturer sells replacement blades or knives for their paper cutters.

MBM Kutrimmer Paper Cutters have the highest quality Solingen steel blades that can be removed and sharpened. However, as with all equipment, the blades can be damaged, or too worn down for sharpening. When this happens, you can buy a MBM Kutrimmer Knife Set for your specific model. These kits contain the blades for both the upper and lower blades for your Kutrimmer Paper Cutter. The upper blade is the part that you pull down to cut your paper and the lower blade stays in place, allowing the upper blade to cut the paper as it slides down against the lower blade.

Dahle Lever Style Cutters and Guillotines have a metal blade built into the base of the machine, which sharpens the blade every time it’s used. Even though it does re-sharpen the blade with use, eventually the blades become dull and you will need to replace the blades or re-sharpen them. If you choose to replace the blades you can easily order Dahle Paper Cutter replacement blades from Factory Express. If you want to sharpen the blades, Dahle recommends contacting a knife or scissor sharpener in your area. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO SHARPEN THE BLADES ON YOUR OWN!

Martin Yale Cutters have blades similar to that of the MBM cutters, they are made to be sharpened or replaced with use and do not have a self-sharpening feature built into the machine. Sometimes users of these paper cutters find that when they are trying to cut papers, the stack moves and they tighten the clamp to hold it steady. Usually this issue is due to dull blades and can be easily remedied with sharpened or replaced blades. The blades can be removed and professionally sharpened (as recommended by the manufacturer) or you can replace them with Martin Yale replacement blades on your own. It will take you about 45 minutes to change the blades, so plan ahead and do not rush the process.

When you are purchasing replacement blades there are several things to keep in mind. First, know the make, model, and serial number of your paper cutter. Replacement blades and knife sets are model specific, so if you buy the wrong blades, they won’t fit properly and your machine will not work. This will also create significant safety issues. Secondly, it is recommended to have a spare set of replacement blades in case you have to have your blades professionally re-sharpened or they become damaged. If you are purchasing replacement blades you might want to purchase an additional set.

The ways to change the blades on a paper cutter will vary with each model so it is vital to keep all the information you receive with your machine and READ THE INSTRUCTIONS THOUROUGHLY AND TO THE END before attempting to replace your paper cutter blades. If you have questions, call for assistance before you begin this process to ensure you do not damage the machine or hurt yourself.

Some machines, such as the Triumph Paper Cutters, are designed to make changing the cutting blades simple and safe. You change the blades on the front of the machines with replacement blades, which are encased in a device that covers the edge of the blade to prevent injury. Other machines, like the Martin Yale paper cutters require more time to change replacement blades, but every machine has varying instructions.

Regardless of which paper cutter you own, there are three things to remember about the blades or knives on your machine:

1. NEVER ATTEMPT TO SHARPEN THE BLADES ON YOUR OWN! Every manufacturer recommends taking your blades to a professional knife or scissor sharpener.
2. Keep your instructions from the manufacturer and read them in their entirety and thoroughly before you begin changing the blades. Call for assistance before you start changing the blades if you have any questions.
3. Keep an additional set of replacement blades or knife set on hand in case you have to send your blades out for sharpening or they become damaged.

By following these suggestions you can ensure that your paper cutter will perform efficiently, safely, and for a long time.

SlapItUp™ Static Wall Clings: The Most Practical Thing You Can Hang Almost Anywhere!

Have you ever discovered artwork or writing on your walls from your children at home or in school, or wished you could write on the wall yourself to illustrate a point in the classroom or a meeting? Now you can solve all of these problems with SlapItUp^TM wall clings.

SlapItUp^TM Is:
A design of wall clings made of a plastic polymer in various sizes and shapes. These pieces of plastic polymer are then charged with electricity so that they will cling to a clean dry indoor surface.

The electrical charge set in the film that you purchase will last between 3 months to 3 years depending on use but you can refresh a piece by sticking it to a television screen and turning the power on and leaving it on for two minutes. SlapItUp^TM wall clings can also be recharged without a television. Simply use a dry piece of wool cloth and gently rub it over the piece of cling to revitalize the electricity This recharges the wall cling by moving the electricity from the television screen or wool cloth to your SlapItUp^TM wall cling.

Some SlapItUp^TM wall clings are sold blank so that you can write on them. Be sure to only use a dry erase marker to write on them and a clean dry cloth to wipe any markings off. SlapItUp^TM wall clings are also environmentally friendly as they can be recycled and use special ink.

Wall Clings You Can Purchase:
The following items are designed for continued reuse. There is a backing that needs to be slowly removed before they will stick to a clean dry surface area indoors, but once placed you can keep a cling stationary for up to 6 months or place it somewhere else. You can write on them with a dry erase marker and clean them with a clean dry cloth or an eraser.

Blank Roll (29″ x 30′)
Keep this roll as one large static wall cling or cut several slammers to use for many purposes.

Blank Roll (33″ x 15′)                                                                                                          
This roll can also be kept as one large sheet or cut into smaller sections.

Graph Sheets (18″ x 24″)
This comes with 15 sheets of graph sheets, which have 1″ square rulings on them.

Use the above products for:

• Brainstorming ideas for home, business meetings, or classroom discussions.
• Wall Art! Kids can now draw on the wall without ruining paint or other finishes.
• School projects in the classroom or hallways. 

Alphabet, Number, and Symbol Packs
These packs include 276 numbers, letters (lower and uppercase), and symbols that are each 3 ¾” x 5 ¾” in size. Each set of numbers, letters, and symbols come in their own 3 ring binders to help keep them organized. These also have a similar backing as the other wall clings so that they will not stick to each other. They come in 4 choices of colors: Red, Blue, Black, and Multicolor.

Use these to:

• Aid in home schooling or as teaching aids for children in schools.
• Decorations that will help children learn while playing in their bedrooms.
• Business meetings or offices.

There is a wall cling for almost every need in your home, office, or classroom. Discover this useful green product that is made to be durable and easy to use.