Abstract: Apparatus for skin packaging articles on a backing card in which a heating unit for film is disposed behind a work table having a vacuum platen on which may be placed a backing card with an article to be packaged; and, upon activation, is moved vertically between a first position above the level of the table and a second position not higher than the table level. A film clamping frame holds a section of film closely above the heating unit when it is in its first position, and when the unit is moved to its second position, moves the heated clamped film section forward and downward onto a backing card where it is drawn down tightly against the article on the card upon creation of a vacuum. Upon completion of the packaging, the backing card is pulled forwardly off the table and its film is severed from the further film which is pulled with it, such further film then being clamped on the film clamping frame which is moved back up to its elevated position for repetition of the cycle.