With this new tool, you will discover a world of new possibilities for all your projects. On the one hand, it allows you to add foil designs to your projects and, on the other hand, you can laminate using either cold or hot lamination. In this article, we explain how it works and its various functions.
Adding foil
Foil is a thin metallic sheet that is applied to give a shiny decorative finish. It is mainly used for stationery or projects related to weddings and events. In this case, using our Minty, we will transfer it onto paper or card using heat.
To do this, the design must be printed with a laser printer, i.e. with toner ink. This ink, passing between the machine's rollers, will melt under the effect of heat, allowing the foil film to adhere to the surface.
In addition to toner ink, the type of paper is also important. If the paper is satin-finished (low porosity), most of the ink will remain on the surface, which will give a much better result with the foil.
Two-in-one device ā Step-by-step instructions for all uses
First, plug in the machine and press the button on the back to turn it on. Next, select the temperature using the circular button on the top. To add foil, select temperature 2 by pressing twice. When the indicator light stops flashing, the machine is ready for use.
Place the foil sheet, shiny side up, and place it in the transfer folder. Ensure that the sheet completely covers the toner ink. Otherwise, the ink will stick to the transfer folder.
Insert the folder into the machine, without creases and starting with the sealed side, without pressing or forcing it, and let the rollers grab it. Wait for the folder to come out completely from the back and let it cool down a little. Remember that there must be 35 centimetres of free space at the back of the laminator so that the folder can come out without any problems.
Finally, remove the project from the folder and gently lift the foil sheet to reveal your illuminated design. And there you have it, your project is ready!
In this video, you can see step by step how to use your Minty laminator.
Hot laminating
Laminating your project makes it more durable, robust and waterproof. This can be useful for important documents, posters, notebook covers, schoolwork, timetables and much more!
To hot laminate, you will need special pouches that contain an adhesive inside that bonds to the paper when heated. The thickness of these pouches is measured in microns. We offer pouches that are 80 and 125 microns thick per side, for a flexible and semi-rigid finish, respectively.
Place the document you want to laminate in the pouch and, for best results, insert it into the transfer folder.
Turn on the machine as described above, but this time select temperature 1 for 80-micron pouches and temperature 3 for 125-micron pouches. Run the folder through the machine in the same way as when adding foil, leave to cool, and voilĆ ! A brand new laminated project!
Cold laminating
You can also laminate using a cold process, i.e. using a vinyl-type sheet whose adhesive sets at room temperature and is applied by simple pressure. This is a suitable method for heat-sensitive items or if you are in a hurry.
In this case, as we only need the force of the rollers, we will select the COLD option from the temperature choices. There is no need to use the transfer sheet, as the pressure rollers will do the necessary work.
The application is similar to that of adhesive vinyl. Stick part of the plastic onto the document of your choice and insert it into the machine. Remove the protective film as the device āswallowsā the document to laminate it completely, cleanly, smoothly and without bubbles.
It's time to get creative
The great thing about the Minty is that you can combine these functions. For example, you can finally make that beautifully decorated planner cover with foil and laminate it to withstand all the knocks in your bag.
The foil application function is perfect for creating elegant projects such as wedding invitations, Christmas cards, cards... What's more, you have a wide variety of toner-reactive foil colours to choose from, ranging from solid colours to patterns and holographic effects. Find the one that best suits your style.
And the laminating function is perfect for students and teachers, who can create durable flashcards, covers, or notes.
Our Minty hot foil laminator allows you to bring a multitude of creative ideas to life. Once you've tried it, you won't be able to do without it!
Products related with this post
Do you want to unleash your creativity? Do you want to know which products we have mentioned in this post? Here they are:
