Go Ahead, Just Try To Rip This Cover

Book component supplier Visual Systems, Inc., Milwaukee, says it has received a warm reception to its BaseOne product line of indestructible plastic-based book covers. The 88-employee, $21 million printer expects to see sales grow 30% this year, helped along by rapid adoption of the BaseOne book cover it developed in conjunction with several other firms, including Kolbus. It has found use in case-bond and soft-cover book applications.

By printing directly on the heavier-gauge plastic substrate, Visual Systems allows customers to eliminate the typical two-step process of printing on paper and laminating. The polyester used is thinner, lighter and stronger than such a polyester/paper laminate mix.

BaseOne products cost about 5% more to produce than paper because the plastic substrate is more expensive. The covers are 80% lighter than normal cover stock.

The company reports that the strength of substrate also allows for enhanced design and finishing options. Its glossy surface imparts a wet look for eye-catching visual appeal when placed on a bookshelf or display area.

Options offered by Visual Systems include specialty ink processes (e.g., Hexachrome, metallics) or inline effects like glitter and pearlescence. Foil stamping is also possible. In Bible covers—seeing growing use of bright colors, camouflage prints and multi-hued florals—the company sees a niche for the soft-cover version. www.visualsystemsinc.com, baseoneprinting.com