How to make printables reusable with dry-erase pockets or lamination

Free or nearly free: sheet protectors

1. Print the page on plain paper or card stock and let ink-jet prints dry for a few minutes.
2. Slide it into a clear sheet protector. Matte or "non-glare" protectors are easier to write on and to read under bright lights.
3. Write with a dry-erase marker and wipe with a tissue, a felt eraser or an old sock.
4. Keep the protectors in a three-ring binder so a whole set stays together.

Dry-erase pockets

1. Dry-erase pockets (also sold as reusable dry-erase sleeves or pockets) are thicker than sheet protectors and open on one or two sides, so pages slip in and out quickly.
2. Put one page in each pocket. Card stock stays flat and won't slide around as you write.
3. Swap the page for a new one any time: the same pockets work for every worksheet, bingo card or tracker.

Laminating

1. Print and let the ink dry fully, at least an hour for ink-jet prints, so it doesn't smear in the heat.
2. Cut the pieces out first if they're small (cards, call slips, tags).
3. Lay them in the laminating pouch with about 1/8 in (3 mm) of space around each piece and between pieces.
4. Run the pouch through the laminator on the setting that matches the pouch thickness (often 3 mil or 5 mil). Let it cool flat.
5. Cut the pieces apart, leaving a thin clear edge all round so the seal holds. Round the corners for a smoother edge.
6. No laminator? Self-adhesive (cold) laminating sheets work without heat: peel, press and smooth from the middle out.

Markers that wipe off

1. Dry-erase markers wipe cleanly from protectors, pockets and laminated sheets. Fine tips are best for small squares and numbers.
2. Wet-erase markers stay put until you wipe them with a damp cloth; good for a chart that should last all week.
3. Permanent markers don't wipe off with a cloth; a little dry-erase marker drawn over the mark, then wiped, often lifts it.
4. Bingo with small children: use chips, pennies or buttons on the protector instead of markers.

Tips

• Leave marker on for days and it can stain. Wipe pages clean after each use.
• Laminate a few spare cards in case some go missing.
• A reusable chore chart or habit tracker can live on the fridge in a pocket with a magnet clip.

Questions