First time laminator owner, and I must say, quite frankly, I don't know what the hold up was! I was afraid of a bad smell and fear of burning myself. I received this for a Christmas present and it took 4 months before using it, but I NEEDED to laminate something and I took the plunge. Easy instructions, easy to use- I am hooked! No burns or bad smells! Should have bitten the bullet years ago!