Abstract: A vacuum press adapted for laminating transparent protective film to photographs and the like and for dry-mounting the same to suitable substrates or backing materials. The press comprises a base characterized by a flexible air-impermeable wall which supports the work sheets and a cover assembly hinged to the base. The cover assembly includes a platen which when brought into engagement with the base cooperates with the flexible wall to form a reducible work-receiving chamber. Means are provided for heating the platen and indirectly the work and for evacuating the work-receiving chamber to cause the work to be laminated under heat and pressure.