All About CarbonInk Fiber Overlaminate Wraps & Skins

One of today's trendiest products, carbon fiber can be incorporated in a variety of items and designs. MightySkin’s new “CarbonInk” innovation promises to shake up how we protect and customize all kinds of essentials.

What Is CarbonInk?

Similar in many respects to standard skins, MightySkin’s CarbonInk brand ups the ante by replacing typical matte laminate finish with a unique carbon fiber finish. Under this approach, ink becomes impenetrable, while scratch protection is taken to the next level.

As far as overlaminates are concerned, CarbonInk serves as the icing on the cake. It is impressive as a protective element, of course, but that is only the beginning. Advanced technology has been integrated into the printing process to deliver the ultimate in personalization. The result? A gorgeous and decidedly modern look that you'll be proud to show off.

How to Choose the Right Overlaminate

Overlaminate can take many forms. Despite its general purpose as a finishing touch, different characteristics impact how it is applied and whether it provides sufficient protection over time. Key factors to keep in mind when selecting overlaminate include the following:

Durability and Strength

If your primary goal involves protecting materials from damage, you'll want to select the most durable overlaminate available. Cast overlaminates, for example, are notoriously resistant to damage. This makes them ideal for materials that might otherwise be prone to wear and tear. Likewise, cast laminates offer excellent protection in environments that commonly produce damage, including, most notably, outdoor settings.

Weight

The weight of a given overlaminate can impact its durability. Heavier options tend to be stronger, although this does not universally ring true. Weight can also impact aesthetics, with lightweight options sometimes leading to air pockets or other unsightly problems.

Aesthetic

Ideally, overlaminates will boost durability without harming the protected item's appearance. The best products actually enhance aesthetics by providing the opportunity for personalization. Various wraps can add color, sparkle, or even unique graphics to make protected items instantly stand out.

Cost

When selecting an overlaminate, the initial cost should be compared with the potential for savings based on the protection the product is intended to provide. While affordable options may initially seem appealing, they should be analyzed carefully to ensure that they provide adequate protection. Otherwise, the long-term costs could prove prohibitive. Ultimately, the best options are available at reasonable prices but also deliver exceptional quality.

Application

Overlaminates can differ greatly in terms of versatility. Many can be relied on for a variety of other applications, while others are limited by design. What is considered 'ideal' may vary significantly from one project to the next, but versatile solutions such as 3M wrap overlaminate can be used in a variety of situations.

What Is 3M Wrap Overlaminate?

Overlaminate options abound, but many users are most enthusiastic about 3M's 8900 series, which offers a seemingly endless array of design options. The 3M carbon fiber wrap has achieved a deserved status as the gold standard for customization, as it can be paired with a wide array of vinyl wrap colors or print wrap films to extend design options. Beyond sheer aesthetics, however, this solution also provides a notable degree of protection that should not be overlooked.

Unique Ways to Customize A Carbon Fiber Wrap

Customization opportunities are virtually endless for today's carbon fiber wraps. If you have a unique or ambitious vision, it can easily be achieved with the right wrap. The following are a few of the best options for making these wraps look unique:

Colors

Carbon fiber wraps come in a seemingly endless array of colors that appeal to virtually any user imaginable. Top 3M carbon fiber wrap colors include Sunburst Gold, Ruby Red, and Mystic Silver, but additional options are also available. These colors typically fall under gold, red, silver, or transparent palettes. Additional colors are available with other carbon fiber options. Also, as mentioned previously, combinations with vinyl wrap colors lend even greater versatility in terms of color.

Patterns or Designs

Color selection is only the beginning. Further customization is available via unique patterns and designs, which can easily be applied to lend wraps visual appeal. Many users appreciate textured looks, which instantly add an appealing sense of depth and dimension.