Look closely at folded maps on a shelf and you’ll notice some have covers and some don’t. Ever wondered why? Here we share the key features of the folded maps we offer, to help you choose the right one for you.
Folded maps with separate covers attached
Did you know that folded maps with separate covers have been in production for quite some time? We have an Ordnance Survey (OS) map in our Frome factory that was printed way back in 1929. Folded maps with separate covers are popular in Britain and in some areas of Europe, such as Italy and Germany. However, in other areas of the world they’re not produced at all. OS uses this classic style of British map production for all its paper map series, including the iconic Landranger and Explorer maps. If you choose a folded map with a separate cover, you’ll know you’re in good company!
We print the inner part of the folded map on carbon balanced, FSC-certified paper instead of synthetic material. This is because the separate cover protects it during general use and offers some weather resistance too. We print the covers on robust card and usually laminate them, for extra durability and an enhanced finish. Lamination creates a nice glossy cover too. After this, we crease and die cut the cover to size, before joining it with the folded map. Our factory has an innovative CMC map casing machine to carry out this specialised service. You can see it in action here.
Folded maps with integral covers (with the fold design incorporating cover text and images)
This is another popular style of map production that may suit your needs. It’s a cost-effective choice and involves the map cover being incorporated within the map sheet’s design. With this option, we use one large sheet of paper to create the whole of your map. It’s a fantastic choice that allows you to choose from a wide range of sizes. We can create maps that easily fit into pockets or bags, making them ideal for outdoor pursuits.
Dennis Maps can print maps with integral covers onto weather-resistant Polyart, a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) film. It’s tear-proof, very water-resistant and resistant to many chemicals and oils too. Polyart is much more durable than regular paper. However, we can also print maps with integral covers onto regular FSC-certified paper if you’d prefer. This is an even more cost-effective choice that works well if maps are being used indoors or in good weather conditions outside.
Here to help you decide
We offer a variety of sizes and folding configurations for all our folded maps. Still undecided about which type of folded map to pick? Please get in touch and we’ll be happy to offer our expert advice.
