The paper you choose to print your text and images can bring it all to life. It can help you add authority and weight to your printing.
While the paper is a straightforward subject, it can get a little complicated at times when you get down to the different types, sizes, and weights. Therefore, understanding all of this can ensure that your costs and waste are down.
Let’s start off by talking about the ABC of the various types of paper out there.
The Different Types of Paper
Deciding on the type of paper you are going to choose can be a difficult choice. In fact, it could be the hardest choice in this process. Therefore, here is a list of various paper types, as well as their descriptions to guide you and ensure that the process of choosing the right paper is relatively less stressful.
1. Bond Paper:
If you want a paper that is more durable and much stronger than the average paper, then the bond paper should be your go-to choice. It is made out of rag pulp, instead of the usual low grade wood pulp used in the formation of other types. Whether you are typing an important report, sending out a letter, or creating a letterhead for your business, this is a perfect choice.
2. Matt Coated Paper:
A paper coated with a fine matt finish, this is a paper that prevents glare and offers you a smooth surface, instead of a shiny one. You can use matt coated papers to print leaflets and flyers, or write-up reports.
3. Gloss Coated Paper:
Gloss coated paper, like its name, gives your brochures and flyers a glossy look since it is highly shiny. However, the ink dries quite well on this kind of paper, which means that there is no requirement for a seal varnish.
4. Recycled Paper:
If you are someone who is conscious about the environment or simply trying to promote an environment friendly image, then recycled paper is going to be your best bet. It is made out of re-used paper products to reduce the environmental impact that paper has. Send out memos or create forms out of these, it is entirely up to you.
5. Silk Coated Paper:
If you are looking for something between matt and gloss, silk coated paper will give you that smooth and silky coating. It does not have a glassy shine and is best used for different catalogues, magazines, and books.
6. Uncoated Paper:
As the name suggests, this kind of paper does not have any coating. Therefore, it is considered to be excellent, in terms of ink absorbency and receptivity. Since it is devoid of coating, you can use both pen and printer on it. Uncoated paper is ideal for memo paper, forms, and letterheads as well.
7. Watermarked Paper:
If you are looking for a paper that has the feel of high quality and luxury, then the watermarked paper is the one to beat. This kind of paper is mostly used for exam certificates and other important documents.
The Different Sizes of Paper
Once you have decided on the type of paper that you want to choose, it is time to think about the size. It is easy to get lost trying to navigate the numerous measurements, which is exactly why this simple guide is here to tell you everything.
1. A Series :
The everyday size of paper used commonly for various general printing purposes, publications, leaflets, business stationery sets, and much more.
The reason the scale is a little confusing is that the greater the number, the smaller is the size of the sheet. Here is how it can be put simply.
All series A sizes are scaled to be in direct proportion with the next one. For example, A2 is half the size of A1, while A1 is half the size of A0.
2. B Series :
A paper from series B is not quite common and it is larger in size than the papers in the A series. This type of paper is mostly used for wall charts and posters.
3. C Series :
The measurements for the papers in this series have been deemed for envelopes. They have been designed to take in corresponding paper sizes from a series A. For example, the C5 envelopes have been designed in a way to be used with A5, whereas C4 sized envelopes can be used with paper of size A4.
The DL envelope, on the other hand, is often used to send out business letters that have been written or printed on A4 sized paper, which has to be folded into three vertical sections to fit inside.
The Different Paper Weights
Once you have figured out the different kinds of paper sizes, you can move on to finding out about their weights. Remember, size is not the only thing that is important when it comes to printing and papers.
Having a good grasp of paperweights will have an impact on your printing. It can also save you precious money and time. The weight is what assists in defining your document by adding a sense of authority and quality to it.
The thickness of the paper is usually measured through its weight in grams per square meter (gsm).
1. Standard Paper Weights:
The typical weights that make it to the standard list are given below.
- 80 gsm
- 90 gsm
- 100 gsm
- 115 gsm
- 130 gsm
- 150 gsm
- 170 gsm
When paper exceeds the weights mentioned above, they are often called board.
The usual weights categorized as board are mentioned below.
- 200 gsm
- 220 gsm
- 250 gsm
- 270 gsm
- 300 gsm
- 350 gsm
- 400 gsm
The paper that you decide to choose for printing has the ability to transform your images, documents, and artwork.
By now, this guide on paper sizes and weights should have made it easier to understand. The topics are not confusing once you delve into the nitty gritty and figure everything out.
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