What is Window Patching?
Window patching is a thin layer of film that is applied over a die-cut window that allows customers to see what your product looks like. While this is often used in the food industry, window patching can be used for any product because it helps create a desire to touch and interact with the product inside. Window patching is useful because it allows customers to visualize the experience they will have with your product and it helps keep your product fresh and protected. Window patching also allows for transparency, as customers are able to see the quality of your product before purchasing.
There are a few different materials used for window patching, and two of the most common plastics include polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). However, other options include polypropylene, polyethylene, glassine, polyolefin, and foil lamination. Polypropylene, polyethylene, and polyolefin are most often used for food products, especially baked goods, snacks, and frozen food. Meanwhile, glassine is used for greasy foods, and foil lamination is best for preserving product integrity.
Choosing the Right Film for Window Patching
When your brand decides to try window patching, one of the most important things to consider is what material you should use. The window size, product stability, and the journey your product will take to reach customers all affect this decision.
1. Window Size
If you’ve chosen to include a large window on your packaging design, it's best to go with a thicker, stronger film. The larger the window size, the more susceptible the film is to tearing. If your product design involves a smaller window, a thin film is generally fine to use and less expensive.
2. Product Stability
If your product is likely to melt or become damaged in heat or humidity, your product is not stable. This is something to consider when choosing the size of your window patching and the film you use. Thin films are likely to crack or wrinkle when exposed to high temperatures and humidity changes. It’s best to consider the type of conditions your product can be exposed to before deciding what kind of window patching to include.
3. Shipping
Shipping can be tricky for window patching, especially if your brand uses a third-party carrier to fulfill orders. No matter the strength of the film, it's important to make sure your product is being handled with care. If food products arrive at stores or the customer’s house with torn film, the product can no longer be consumed or sold. The same goes for non-food products; if the window patching is torn, the quality of the product immediately decreases in the eyes of customers. If you choose to use a third-party carrier when shipping your product, it’s probably a good idea to invest in a durable film to make sure nothing is damaged along the way.
GCB Solutions has the packaging industry experience to help you through shifting trends. Whether you are beginning the design process or looking to make that final push to launch, we can help.
Call us at (904) 263-2804 or schedule a free consultation, today!