Cascade Print Media, Author at Cascade Print Media

History of Paper

FAQ, Uncategorized

Paper is one everyday item that most people take for granted in their everyday lives. However, paper has a fascinating history spanning multiple continents and several thousand years.

Written languages existed long before the concept of paper was conceived. Before paper, words and symbols were transcribed onto materials such as tree bark, clay, and animal skins.

It is believed that papers' origins can be traced back to the year 105 AD in an area of China called Lei-Yang. There, a court official named Ts'ai Lun made the first known type of paper. To do this, he mixed water, tree bark, hemp, and cloth rags, mashed them into a pulp, pressed out the liquid, and hung the remaining thin mat in the sun to dry. This invention proved popular, and paper soon spread throughout China, where less than 200 years later, paper was being widely used for making books.

By 700 AD, paper had spread throughout the Middle East, where its use flourished for 500 years before papermaking made its way to Europe. The first papermills were created in Spain, and soon after, mills spread throughout Europe. Paper was widely used for printing important books, bibles, and legal documents.

The first papermill in America was created in 1690, which made paper using a technique and materials quite similar to the original Chinese papermaking technique. Over time, as demand for paper grew throughout the colonies, papermills shifted to using wood to make paper, as trees were a far more abundant resource to use for raw materials.

Today, paper is made from trees grown in sustainably managed forests and from recycled paper. At Cascade Print Media, we are proud that 100% of the paper we use for printing comes from recycled materials. Additionally, 100% of our paper waste is recycled into new paper.

Contact us today to partner with a local organization that makes sustainability and conservation a priority!

Book Binding Options

FAQ, Marketing, Tips and Tricks

Book binding comes in many shapes and forms. Choosing the right kind is usually determined by it’s intended use, page count and desired look. Depending on your needs Cascade offers a variety of choices to help bring your next project together.

Saddle Stitched

The most affordable option, Saddle Stitching, is bound together using industrial staples resulting in an inexpensive yet durable binding solution. An excellent choice for mid-sized books. Cascade can accommodate books ranging from 8 to 80 pages. Books on the smaller side will naturally lie flat. This makes it a great option for books where people need to write information or add notes. It is one of the most commonly used binding methods for booklets in use.

Wire-O Binding

Another sturdy option is Wire-O binding. This involves gathering the pages in order, punching square holes along the spine and then securing them with a loop of metal wire that is closed binding everything together. When bound this way the pages can be opened and will lay flat. They can even be folded fully back around to the rear cover. This works great for higher end notepads, recipe books or notebook style projects.

Perfect Binding

Photo of person reading a book that is perfect bound

Perfect Binding is a method commonly seen in magazines or books. This is where a strong glue is used to hold the gathered pages against the spine of the cover. This is the most expensive of the three options but results in the most professional and high-impact appearance. Usually reserved for a thicker booklet, this style of binding can be unsuitable for thinner, smaller booklets.

Inside Pages

photo of "tunnel" of magazines and papers

Cascade offers a range of internal stock choices that can best suite your needs. Whether you need gloss options to help your color images pop or are after affordable uncoated stock that allows users to write in your products. Cascade Print Media can help guide you through the rabbit hole of choices that best serve your needs and budget.

Check out our other post on binding options - then contact us so we can help you with your next project!

Paper Type Options

FAQ, Marketing, Tips and Tricks

The landscape of printing features a wide variety of paper options, each offering unique features that can cater to the needs of any particular printed piece.

Paper Weight & Thickness

The type of paper used for a print project can be distinguished by a variety of paper weights, which relate directly to the thickness or heaviness of a single sheet of paper. Paper weights span thin sheets that can be used as flyers or letters all the way up to thick paper better suited for more heavy-duty purposes, like cards, posters, or book covers.

In the US, paper weight is often referred to as basis weight, which is measured in pounds and is calculated based on the weight of a ream of 500 sheets of paper in its standard size. This form of measurement may sound impractical for the average person to use, but the best way to think about it is that the higher the paper weight, the heavier the paper. Basic copier paper is typically around 20 lbs., whereas a sturdy poster is printed on paper that is likely to be around 130 lbs. in basis weight.

Cover vs. Book Weight

The printing industry also distinguishes between cover weight paper and book weight paper. Book weight paper is typically relatively thin paper that can be used for a variety of print media, such as books, booklets, catalogs, magazines, and letters. In contrast, cover weight paper, often referred to as cardstock, is typically thick and stiff, and can be used for an assortment of more sturdy print media, such as business cards, menus, postcards, invitations, and posters. Book weight paper typically spans 60 lbs. to 100 lbs. in basis weight whereas the span for cover weight paper is around 80 lbs. to 130 lbs. The pounds of basis weight are symbolized by a # sign.

Paper Finishes

Print media can be coated with a variety of finishes during the papermaking or printing processes. These include the following:

Gloss finish: Shiny and lustrous smooth coated finish. Make your colors and images pop!
Matte finish: Eliminates glare while protecting the print with a dull coating. Often used for jobs with lots of typed copy or fine details.
Silk finish: The perfect middle ground between gloss and matte. Silk can be compared to a luster or semi-gloss finish.
Uncoated paper: More superior than your average copy paper and prints pieces with stunningly sharp images. Great for journals, cards, and coloring books as it is easy to write on.

For more advice about what type of paper options would work best for your next print project, contact us at or give us a call at (253) 472-5500.

Marketing, Promotional Products

Summer Essential Swag for Your OOO Adventures

With summer just around the corner, it's time to gear up for beach days, backyard barbecues, and those well-deserved Out-Of-Office (OOO) moments! But while you're packing your sunscreen and sunglasses, why not consider adding some fun and functional branded promo products to your vacation stash?

At Cascade Print Media, we’ve curated a list of summer essentials that’ll make your clients’ time off a breeze—and you don’t even have to leave the office to grab them! Whether you're looking to stock up for your next company retreat or give your customers a lasting impression while they’re lounging poolside, our summer-ready promo products will keep your brand shining all season long.

Branded Beach Towels

There’s nothing quite like lounging by the ocean with a towel that screams “vacation vibes.” Our branded beach towels are perfect for company swag or giveaways that get your brand noticed even on the sand. These towels are big, bold, and perfect for customizing with your logo, ensuring that every dip in the ocean or pool is a reminder of your company’s sunny side.

Custom Sunglasses

Keep your clients' eyes protected from the sun in style with custom sunglasses. These affordable yet high-impact promo items are a hit at any summer event or giveaway. Available in a variety of colors and styles, these sunglasses are the perfect way to ensure your brand is seen everywhere—whether on the beach, at a BBQ, or while strolling through a summer festival.

Personalized Coolers and Drinkware

Stay refreshed and hydrated while keeping your brand cool with custom coolers and personalized drinkware. Whether it’s a cooler bag for beach picnics or a water bottle that keeps drinks cold all day long, these essentials will make sure your clients stay hydrated and stylish. Think about branded tumblers, insulated bottles, or even custom beach bags that carry everything in one go.

Picnic and Beach Blankets

Picnics are a classic summer activity, and a branded beach blanket can make it even better. Not only are they functional for outdoor dining, but they also serve as a perfect backdrop for your brand to be showcased all season long. Plus, they fold up neatly, making them easy to pack for any getaway. A cozy, custom blanket is bound to be a favorite summer essential.

Custom Tote Bags

Heading to the beach or a summer event? Custom tote bags are a versatile and eco-friendly option to carry everything you need—whether it’s sunscreen, snacks, or a good book. Personalized with your logo, these bags make it easy for your brand to travel everywhere, from the beach to the boardwalk. Bonus points: They’re reusable, making them great for eco-conscious customers!

Portable Phone Chargers

Let’s face it—no one wants their phone to die in the middle of a beach selfie or while navigating through their summer vacation. Keep your clients' devices charged and ready for action with custom portable phone chargers. These compact chargers are perfect for travel and can be branded with your logo, ensuring your clients never miss a moment to share their summer fun.

Sunscreen and Lip Balm with Your Logo

Protect your clients from the sun’s harsh rays with branded sunscreen and lip balm. Perfect for vacationers, these small but mighty items fit perfectly into beach bags, and your logo will be on display every time they reapply. Whether they’re protecting themselves from the beach sun or the summer heat, these products will keep your brand in the spotlight.

Beach Chairs and Umbrellas

For those longer days on the sand, branded beach chairs and umbrellas make the perfect summer companion. Your clients will appreciate the shade and comfort while you gain exposure as their go-to brand for relaxation and fun. These items are perfect for giveaways or corporate events, ensuring your brand gets a front-row seat at the next summer beach day.

How to Order Your Summer Essentials:

All of these summer essentials (and many more!) are available for quick and easy ordering on our website. Whether you’re looking for something fun and functional for your employees, clients, or event guests, Cascade Print Media has you covered.

Visit Cascade Print Media's website or get in touch today to shop for your summer-ready promo products and keep your brand shining bright all season long!

Get Ready for Your OOO Adventures:

The summer sun isn’t just for enjoying—it’s for promoting! Whether you're lounging at the beach, hiking in the mountains, or attending a summer event, these branded products will help keep your company top of mind. And while you're out of the office, we'll handle the details to make sure you have everything you need for a stellar summer.