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Considerations for Choosing Paper for Printing

Despite all appearances in our modern digital era, a variety of types of paper are still utilized daily. Now more than ever, there are different kinds of paper available for a wide range of uses. Without a doubt, kids still use coloring books, students use schoolbooks, and employees and businesses use paper in office work or for marketing strategies.

If you’re personally making considerations for choosing paper for printing, you know there are a lot of factors to consider. Paper has unique characteristics that set one type apart from another. Consider the kinds of paper that surround you every day or the papers that you have held in your hands before. They’re all different sizes and weights with various sheens and brightness. Let’s take a closer look at these properties.

Consider the Ideal Type of Paper

When choosing paper, it’s vital to consider what category of paper is ideal for your project. This includes a surface sealant. Coated stocks of paper are traditionally available in several types of finishes. The first is gloss, which has a high sheen and is popular for magazines. Dull is the second finish, which is the middle ground between gloss and matte. A matte finish is the last option and is coated paper without a sheen, creating a flat look.

Conversely, uncoated paper has no surface sealant. The texture of this paper will feel rougher in comparison, but it’s beneficial for certain uses as it soaks up more ink. Uncoated paper is perfect as paper to write on and is ideal for stationary, envelopes, or projects that contain a lot of visible text.

Consider the Overall Paper Weight & Thickness

When you are making considerations for choosing paper for printing, take the time to consider the optimal thickness for your print project. In the printing industry, the weight of paper is a direct reference to its true thickness. Generally speaking, the greater the weight of the paper, the greater its thickness.

Consider whether your project is more along the lines of a text class paper, which has a traditional weight, or if it requires the thickness of the cover weight category, which is a stockier weight similar to what you may feel on a business card. This can be a tricky decision, so ask an expert for their advice regarding the best paper thickness for your needs.

Consider the Brightness & Shade of the Paper

Brightness is another major factor to ponder, as is the paper shade or tone. These factors play a large role in the contrast on the page, the overall legibility, and the aesthetic of the ink color. True white is the most common white paper color, as it is a neutral and balanced tone, but you can inquire about subtle shade differences when considering printing services.

At House of Printing, our web to print services are ideal for large companies and small businesses alike. Our services come with the guarantee of fair prices, high-quality products, and exceptional customer service. With turn-key results, our cost-effective solutions are perfect for any of your print project needs. Contact us today for a free sample or demo.