What is encapsulation?

An encapsulate is a sheet of clear plastic - you can choose from a range of thicknesses or 'grades' - which is applied to both sides of a piece of paper. It extends beyond the edges of the paper, usually by around 5-10mm, sealing the paper within. It offers far greater protection than a laminate and, as long as the plastic seal remains intact, is waterproof. Encapsulation is usually reserved for use on ID badges and wipe clean menus.


Be aware that, in the UK, leaflets which are usually VAT zero rated (you do not have to pay VAT) become subject to VAT standard rating (you pay VAT at 17.5%) if lamination or encapsulation is applied. HM Revenue & Customs consider a laminated or encapsulated leaflet as something which is intended to be retained by your customer rather than to be read and then thrown away.

Related article: UK VAT rules for printed leaflets, flyers, brochures, booklets etc