What is the best shatter-proof CD case that can hold literature?

Shatter proof CD cases are made of polypropylene, a sturdy little plastic we have a lot of love for, here at Polyline. (Read about the properties of polypropylene on the polyNEWSline blog.) To get one that holds literature, you’re going to want to pick one that has the same (or similar) dimensions to a traditional CD case.

How much does a standard jewel case weigh?

Pictured are a standard sized jewel case and a slimline jewel case.

It depends on the plastic content of the case. Cases with higher plastic content are heavier, but are considered higher-quality cases.

What are those round CD cases called?

They're called clamshell cases. Can you see why?

Generically, the round, polypropylene cases are called clamshell cases.

What is a "tamper evident seal"?

A tamper evident seal is an opening that allows you to determine if someone has opened the package. For example, Polyline carries adhesive-backed disc sleeves with tamper evident seals.

Why does a CD case look different than a DVD case?

Jewel Cases were designed with the intent of setting the CD product apart from its predecessors (LP and cassettes). The DVD case was designed to help ease the transition from VHS to DVD.

I think it probably comes down to a marketing decision during the design phase. The Philips product development teams in Germany and the Netherlands had decided that the ideal CD case would be not much thicker than the CD itself, would protect the disc from scratches and had to reinforce the image of a state-of-the art product. They wanted something that would look completely different than LP packaging.

The Difference between Polypropylene and PVC (Vinyl) CD Sleeves

Q: How can you tell the difference between polypropylene and PVC (vinyl) CD sleeves?

A: The fastest way to determine of a CD sleeve is polystyrene or vinyl is to give it a good sniff. Vinyl has a distinctive scent. Around the office, we've described this scent as being similar to a new shower curtain, a fashion doll and one of those big bouncy balls you can buy at the supermarket. Can you imagine that smell, now? That's the smell of vinyl and polypropylene doesn't have that smell. (Although polypropylene that has a lot of recycled content in it also has a distinctive odor, but that's a different smell all together.)

How do I package a book with a CD?

There are a couple of different options you can use. Before I go into those, however, I want you to ask yourself these three questions:

• How will your customer/client use the CD? If the disc is something they will use regularly or want to archive, your packaging decision will be different than if the CD is a one-time use marketing piece that's accompanying your book.
• How will you pack the disc? Will you be using an automated line or hand packing?
• And, finally, how will you distribute your CD and book? 

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Once you have answered these questions, you'll have a better idea of which packaging option to use. Here are a few ideas to get you going.

	Vinyl Albums Vinyl albums are the way to go if your CD and book have a high perceived value. This is a favorite among customers who are providing distance learning programs. The packaging is sturdy and good for storing your media for a few years. They have a high-quality look and feel that stands up well during shipping. View our vinyl albums.
	Paper Sleeve with Perfect Bind-In Tab If your book will be professionally printed with "perfect" binding, your printer can insert these sleeves during the binding process. It's an economical alternative and works well for our customers who are offering a text book (like a foreign language text or computer programming text). Packed on an automated line by your printer, these are not really intended for long-term storage. View our Sleeves with Perfect Bind-In Tabs.
	Adhesive Sleeves Technically, adhesive sleeves will stick to darn near anything, so you can team this with presentation folders, binders or books. Personally, I like the way they look with binders. A good choice for a training/HR manual with support materials. Choose between sleeves with resealable closures or ones that are tamper "evident." Choose a polypropylene for true archiving purposes. View our Adhesive Sleeves.
	Adhesive Hubs This is another option that will stick to just about anything, but offer very little in the way of disc protection. Hubs are, however, one of the cheapest disc packaging options available, as well as one of the most flexible options. View our Adhesive Hubs.

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