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Gloss paper, sometimes called glossy paper or shiny stock, is a coated sheet designed to deliver maximum color impact. A special coating on the surface prevents ink from soaking into the fibers, allowing your images and text to sit on top. This creates brighter, more vibrant color reproduction, greater contrast and crisper resolution [source]. Because the finish reflects light, photos and graphics appear polished and lifelike [source], making gloss paper perfect for marketing collateral, premium business cards, invitations and stunning photo prints [source]. Variations include high-gloss, which offers the most reflective sheen and best contrast [source], and semi-gloss or luster finishes that reduce glare while preserving rich colors [source].
Gloss paper’s non-absorbent coating keeps ink from sinking into the fibers. This reduced absorption ensures your colors stay sharp and saturated, making images pop. However, it also means prints take a bit longer to dry. Handle freshly printed sheets carefully—avoid stacking or touching the surface until the ink is fully set to prevent smudges [source].
While glossy sheets excel at printing, writing on them requires care. The smooth coating means many pens will smudge or skip. According to the professional print-shop Forever, oil-based ballpoint pens, quick-dry gel pens, fine-tip permanent markers and rollerball pens with waterproof ink adhere best to satin-coated (semi-gloss) paper [source]. They recommend allowing ink to dry completely and testing a small area first [source]. Heavy pressure can cause skipping [source]. In general, ballpoint pens are the safest choice; gel inks may smudge unless labeled quick-dry.
Like other printing stocks, gloss paper is available in text weights (lightweight sheets for internal pages of brochures, booklets or flyers) and cover weights (heavier cardstock for covers, postcards or business cards). Text weights generally range from about 70–100 #, while cover weights run 80–100 # or higher. Selecting the right weight depends on your project: thicker stocks offer durability and a premium feel; lighter weights are economical and easier to fold.
Choose gloss paper for photo-forward and color-intensive projects—photographs, promotional flyers, brochures, posters and premium business cards. Its reflective finish delivers the impact you need for high-contrast images, saturated colors and sharp details [source] [source]. For pieces with more text or that will be handled frequently, consider semi-gloss or satin finishes; they reduce glare and resist fingerprints [source].
