Paper Types Explained
When you are choosing a paper for your project, what do all the paper terms mean? What is matte vs uncoated? Below the paper types are explained in detail.
Coated Paper
Uncoated Paper
Wove or Smooth Paper
Laid Paper
Linen Paper
Coated One Side and Coated Two Sides Paper
Paper Weight
Most commonly measured in pounds, points
Pounds refer to the weight of a ream (500 sheets) of paper, while points measure the thickness of a single sheet. Paper with higher pound numbers is thicker than one with a lower number. In contrast, points measure the thickness of a single sheet of paper. A higher point number indicates that the paper is thicker than one with fewer points.
Generally the higher the pounds or points, the thicker and stiffer the paper. For example, 20# (or pound) text or bond paper is equivalent to a standard writing or copy paper, while 100# (or pound) cover is thicker and more suitable for postcards and business cards.
Through the use of reliable measurement systems such as pounds and points, paper weight can tell us much about a sheet’s thickness. Heavier-weighted papers create thicker sheets with a more pleasing appearance than lighter counterparts.
To help in selecting between different types of paper, three general categories have been established. Writing paper is for documents. Text weights used mostly within books or catalogs. Cover stocks that provide higher quality printing on products like folders or postcards.
It’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the possible choices related to this subject. Understanding these will help you make better decisions regarding commercial printing projects!
Writing Paper Weight
Text Paper Weight
Cover Paper Weight
Paper Opacity
Choosing paper is more than just picking a color or texture – its paper opacity can drastically influence the effect of your printed project. Opacity in paper hinge upon factors like weight, ingredients and absorbency.
Complete transparency has an index score of 0%. Full coverage sits at 100% opacity. Tracing paper would have a low opacity. Knowing how to balance paper for varied prints will add greater depth to any design!