Paper Types for Printing

In the printing industry, there is a wide range of paper types. We can say that one can find a paper for any kind of his or her need. But you should keep in mind that every printer cannot print all kinds of papers.

Paper quality is one of the variables for the quality of the job as well as the printer, graphic design, and ink. For that reason, the selection of paper for different types of jobs matters a lot.

When papers are categorized, grammage of the paper is one of the specifications for papers.

Grammage;

The grammage of paper is the weight of that paper for 1 square meter. It is measured as grams per square meter and noted as gsm.

Paper Types;

Let’s start with uncoated paper. This type of paper is generally found in every office. Mostly used with office printers. Also, it is the paper for notebooks, newspapers, books. Being uncoated makes the paper receptible to ink. Uncoated paper absorptivity for ink is high. Perfect for taking notes which is why it is used in notebooks. Also, very suitable for reading materials that you can see in the interior pages of books. Uncoated paperweights can differ between 60-170gsm.

Coated paper has a smooth surface that is obtained using chemicals during its production. It can have a matt or glossy finish. It is generally used for brochures, catalogues, posters, etc. because these kinds of jobs require its colours to be shown vividly. Besides that, medical books are also printed on coated paper because they require high quality due to its contents. Coated paper creates the desired outcome for medical books due to its absorptivity rate caused by its coating. Coated papers are also used for the cover of the books.

Inkjet paper is a paper that is specifically designed for inkjet printers. This paper is highly compatible with inkjet printers’ ink. It will give nice outcomes for colourful and glossy jobs because it has low absorption due to its coating.

Book paper is a paper type that is designed for books. It is lightweight and has a slightly yellow colour which does not strain your eyes. This is used for interior pages of books. If the paper count is too high, this one is a highly preferred option because of its lightweight. Also, it has a lower price regarding other paper types. This type of paper can be found in different brands and different qualities.

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Paper types above are the most commonly used papers in the printing industry. There are also special papers which are referred to in the beginning. Here are some of them;

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Canvas paper is a paper that has texture. It can be used for business cards, invitations, and certificates.

Kraft paper is also a special paper. It is an eco-friendly paper because it is obtained by recycling. People may choose this paper because of its special look or to make a statement for the environment. Besides the printing industry, it is generally used as wrapping paper for sandwiches or packaging products.

Silk paper is a soft feeling paper. It is made of silk fibers, stronger than traditional papers. Colours look vibrant when it is printed. It can be used on luxury brochures.

These three are just some examples of special papers, there are many other types of special papers according to the targeted industry and need.

In Step Printing House we are printing on coated, uncoated, canvas, and book paper with a range of 50 gsm to 350 gsm. If you require printing on some other special papers, please contact us. Hope this post gave some little insight into printing papers.

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