Not all paper is the same. Whether brochure, business card, folding carton or shipping box: the choice of paper determines how a printed product looks, how it feels and how sturdy it is. Here are the main types of paper and their typical uses.
The distinction is made mainly by grammage, given in grams per square metre (g/m²). As a rough guide:
The boundaries are fluid. What matters more than the label is that thickness and stiffness suit the product.
Coated papers have a fine surface layer. The ink stays on the surface, so images look brilliant and sharp. They come in gloss, silk and matt.
Uncoated papers have no coating and an open, slightly rough surface. They absorb more ink, which makes colours look somewhat more muted. In return, they are excellent to write on. They are the first choice for letterheads, notepads, forms and text-heavy books.
Recycled paper is made entirely or mainly from waste paper. Modern grades are bright, easy to print and hardly distinguishable from virgin fibre paper. It is suitable for almost all print products with a sustainable focus.
Kraft paper consists of long, unbleached fibres and is particularly tear-resistant. Its typical brown colour looks natural and honest. Kraft paper is used for paper carrier bags, wrapping paper, labels and food packaging.
Papers with a linen, felt or laid texture, through-dyed papers or pearlescent papers give invitations, business cards, folders and premium packaging a special feel. They are also often used to wrap gift boxes.
Read more in our article GC1, GC2 or kraft board.
Not sure which paper suits your project? Order our free sample pack with material and print samples. We will be happy to advise you personally and send you a binding quote within 24 hours.
Your partner for printed packaging and print products – direct from the manufacturer, with our own production and delivery throughout Germany.