If you were looking for tips on how to fix the windows in your home, you’ve come to the wrong place. For packaging purposes, window patching refers to using a clear film over a die-cut hole to create a window!
In this post, we’re breaking down some of the basics of this technique, and showing you some examples. Read on to learn more!
Different Kinds of Plastic
There are several different plastics that are popular in window patching. The two most common plastics are polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
PET is likely the plastic that you’re most familiar with. It’s food-safe, making it the ideal choice for any food or beverage packaging! Additionally, PET is one of the most commonly recycled plastics!
PVC is another sturdy plastic packaging material. It’s is more resistant to wear and tear than PET, which is why we recommend this type of plastic for any items that will be handled a lot. Unfortunately, PVC is not UV resistant and can degrade or have a strong odour, which is why we don’t recommend using it for food packaging!
Some other popular options for window patching include:
- Cellophane
- Polypropylene
- Glassine
- Polyethylene
Is Window Patching For Me?
It might be hard to determine if window patching is right for you, and when to use it. Here are some things to consider when you’re thinking about incorporating this technique in your packaging.
Window Size
Size isn’t everything, but when it comes to adding a window to your packaging, it’s definitely something to consider! Bigger windows are more prone to breaking or tearing, so they would need a thicker plastic film. Smaller windows can use a thinner film, as they aren’t as likely to rip.
Additionally, you want to make sure there is enough space for the plastic film to be glued to your packaging! For example, for a box that is 6″ x 6″ x 6″, it would be ideal to have a minimum 1.5″ border around your window. By giving the window film a larger surface area to adhere to, you lessen the chances of window breakage!
Film Type
Depending on what you’re packaging, the strength of the plastic film you use is important! Bakeries and other takeout businesses might choose a cellophane film, which is more breathable than a PET or PVC material. On the other hand, pharmaceutical products might need a more rigid film to protect the package’s contents.
How LeKAC Uses Window Patching
Here at LeKAC, we mainly use cellophane and PET for this technique. Why? Since so many of the packaging requests we get for boxes with a window are for businesses that sell perishable items, these are the two safest options!
Cellophane is a breathable, plant derived material made from cellulose, making it perfect for takeout packaging. To learn more about cellulose-based packaging materials, check out our blog post on microfibrillated cellulose (MFC)!
Overall, choosing window patching can either make or break your packaging. Adding window patching to your packaging can even help add value to your packaging.
We design your packaging to your unique requirements. However, if you already have a window size or a design in mind, we’ll do our best to make it happen! If you’re not quite sure, our Business Development Consultants can make some suggestions.
Interested in learning more? Contact us today to get connected with one of our knowledgeable Consultants to get started!
