Expert advice: The choice of paper, an essential part of your project

  • Oct 18, 2023

In printing, there is a wide range of paper types, each suited to specific uses depending on the needs of the project. Our brokers can advise you on different options when evaluating your project. Here are some of the most common types of paper in printing:

Coated paper: It is covered with a thin layer of white clay called kaolin or calcium carbonate to obtain a smooth and uniform surface. It is ideal for printing magazines, brochures and flyers because of its ability to reproduce sharp images and vivid colors. Due to its smooth surface and coating, coated paper has low ink absorption. This means the ink stays on the surface longer, resulting in sharper images and text.

Uncoated paper: Unlike coated paper, it has no coating which gives it a rough surface. It is often used for printing newspapers, books and ecological communication materials. It offers a more natural texture. Uncoated paper is generally in a similar price range to offset paper, but it can vary depending on the quality and type of paper.

Offset Paper: It is used for printing business documents, letters, envelopes and books. It offers a soft surface and is suitable for offset, letterpress and digital printing. Offset paper has a rougher surface and offers a more natural texture than coated paper. The ink is absorbed deeper into the fibers of the paper, which can result in a duller appearance and slightly less sharp printing than on coated paper. Offset paper is economical, making it a popular choice for large-run projects.

Recycled paper: Made from recycled materials, this type of paper is environmentally friendly. It can be produced in coated or uncoated paper. It is used for projects requiring an ecological approach. Before selecting recycled paper for your project, you should review the product specifications to ensure it meets your needs in terms of print quality, appearance and texture.

Kraft Paper: It is made from unbleached wood fibers, giving it a natural light brown or dark brown color. It is known for its strength and durability. Kraft paper is commonly used for packaging, paper bags, labels and envelopes.

Cardstock: It is thicker than standard paper and is used for greeting cards, book covers, invitations and posters.

Designer Paper: This type of paper is often used for special projects such as high-end business cards, wedding invitations, and other documents requiring a touch of elegance and creativity. This type of paper is often limited in terms of availability.

Carbonless paper: It is coated with a pressure-sensitive chemical that allows copies to be created without requiring carbon. It is commonly used for creating forms, invoices, receipts and other documents requiring immediate copies.

These types of paper can vary in thickness, texture, color, gloss, and other characteristics. The choice of paper will depend on the specific printing project, desired appearance and functional requirements. Our brokers can guide you in choosing the paper best suited to your project.


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