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.
