Monday, February 27, 2012

How to Shrink Wrap Gifts and Other Items

Next time you're out take a close look around and you'll be amazed at how many products you see that are shrink wrapped. More and more products are encased in this protective plastic to secure them, keep them clean and provide a clear display of the product. There are three methods of shrink wrapping, which include using a blow dryer, a heat gun, or a professional, industrial shrink wrap machine.

To learn how to shrink wrap you'll need plastic sheeting or plastic bags, preferably those types designed for use with a heat gun. Basically, plastic is wrapped around the item that you wish to shrink and the heat from the gun will shrink the plastic onto the object that you're wrapping. Items can be sealed air tight and if necessary multiple layers may be applied until you have the durability and toughness desired as a covering.

People use it at home, to package gifts, homemade goodies, gift baskets and small items that need to be protected and kept clean in storage. Small businesses and retailers make good use of heat guns for shrink wrapping any number of items for store displays.

Before starting any shrink wrapping project, put on safety goggles and a pair of thick gloves. Heat guns emit a lot of heat and it's not worth getting burned by not wearing the appropriate safety equipment. If possible wear a face mask to reduce your chances of inhaling fumes from the products you are heat wrapping that may contain adhesives, paint or other forms of plastic. If you're wondering how to shrink wrap for yourself, let's take a look at how easy it is and show you how to get started.

Work in an uncluttered area with room to work on a solid flat surface and plug a heat gun into an electric socket to heat up. Guns heat up quickly and should be resting on a stand that is usually included in the purchase of the gun. Place the object that you wish to wrap into a bag and leave a half an inch of wrap around the object, trimming off excess amounts. Be sure and tape closed any open edges. Hold the heat gun, depressing the trigger and point towards the object. Continue heating until the wrap shrinks around the object, melding to the shape.

If you're into making your own potpourri, candles, soaps, gift baskets or any other types of handcrafted goods, you might want to check into shrink wrapping. It's cheap to do and comes out with professional looking results. Now that you know how to shrink wrap, give it a try.




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