Question:

I purchased your digital files and am wondering if I should cut out all the cards before I laminate or if I should laminate them first and then cut them out?

Answer:

That's a great question. We actually did a clinical research study on this topic  so we know a lot about it!

First, it depends on how much use the cards will receive. If you're homeschooling, you may not need to laminate at all. Printing on cardstock is an excellent option if the cards won't be used by 25+ children each year. 

If you're in a school, lamination is a good idea. But, if your school uses a thin (1.5 mil) laminate, you may wish to print the cards on a slightly heavier paper. If they're too thin, it will be hard to pick them up off the table. So either use a sturdier laminate (5 mil) or a sturdier paper (maybe a 60# cardstock).

If you're going to laminate, we recommend cutting out the cards first, before you laminate. This will let you leave a small border of laminate around the edge of each card when you cut them out. This sealed edge will help prevent the laminate from peeling away from the paper over time.