How to Cover a Paperback Book With Clear Plastic Film

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Cut a section of book film the size of your book cover

   Also make sure to find/use an acid free plastic. ,, Be careful to only cut the paper backing and not the film itself!, Fold it enough to allow for the width of your book's spine.,,,,, This will expose only an inch /
   2.5 cm or so of sticky surface to the book cover at a time and will prevent unwanted or premature adhesion., Cut the film as close to the corner of the book as possible without actually nipping the book itself., Note:
   Take special care to not leave "tunnels" of air at the edge of the page.
   
   You will need to maintain tension on the film while carefully pressing it against the edge of the cover and around onto the back side of the cover.
   
   This is especially critical with paperback books, as that little air tunnel will cause the edges of your paper cover to de-laminate over time.
   
   Tiny air pockets can be pricked with a push pin or similarly sharp item to ensure extra air is released. ,,,,, (Same warnings about "air tunnels" applies to these edges.)
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   Step 2: plus two inches (5cm) in every direction.

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   Step 3: Fold the film in half and crease the center line.

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   Step 4: Cut the paper backing along the center line.

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   Step 5: Fold the backing away from the center line.

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   Step 6: Lay the book film paper side up with the center strip exposed.

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   Step 7: Lay your book spine down the center line and press to get the book film to stick to it.

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   Step 8: Pick up the book (with film attached) and press the film firmly against the spine to eliminate bubbles and ensure good adhesion.

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   Step 9: Press the film gently over the corner edges

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    Step 10: taking care to press away from the spine and leave no bubbles.

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    Step 11: Use your "bone" or a hard

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    Step 12: straight edged object such as a ruler

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    Step 13: slide the book film over the cover while slowly peeling the paper backing off of the film.

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    Step 14: Miter the corners of the film to the corner of the book.

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    Step 15: Fold the edge film snugly over the edge of the book and press firmly onto the inside of your cover.

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    Step 16: Repeat for back cover.

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    Step 17: Note that top and bottom edges of the book can be done the same way except for the problem of the spine being in the way.

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    Step 18: Clip a "divot" out of the film that extends beyond the top and bottom edges of the book to allow for the fact that you cannot fold film down over the spine.

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    Step 19: Trim the excess film as close as possible to the end of the spine.

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    Step 20: Fold the remaining film snugly down over the top and bottom edges of the book cover.

Detailed Guide

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