Introduction
Have you ever noticed that the types of paper we come into contact with every day are more than you can imagine? From the sticky notes that you tear off casually to the carefully framed paintings, from the corrugated paper of the express box to the greaseproof paper of the coffee cup, the world of paper is far richer than we can imagine.
Different materials, thicknesses, and craftsmanship make them play an irreplaceable role in all walks of life. This article will introduce you to 20 common types of paper and help you thoroughly understand their characteristics, uses, and purchasing skills.
Paper properties
The properties of paper are the core factors that determine its applicable use, printing effect, and service life. A deep understanding of these properties can not only help us choose types of paper accurately, but also optimize the effect and experience of the final product.
The following are the most important properties of paper and their key roles in practical applications:
1. Weight (unit: g/m²)
GSM, or grams per square meter, is a standard unit of measurement for describing the weight or density of paper. It indicates the weight of paper in grams per square meter.
Higher GSM = thicker, heavier, and often more durable paper
Lower GSM = lighter, thinner, and more flexible paper
GSM does not directly indicate thickness, but there is usually a correlation—heavier paper tends to feel thicker and sturdier.
| GSM | Paper Type | Uses |
| 70–90 GSM | Lightweight | Printing, copying, or writing |
| 100–120 GSM | Mid-range weight | letterheads, flyers, and reports |
| 150–250 GSM | Thicker | brochures, posters, and premium presentations |
| 300+ GSM | Extra-thick | packaging, postcards, and business cards |
2. Paper Texture
Paper texture refers to the surface feel and appearance of the paper. It plays a critical role in how the paper looks, feels in the hand, and interacts with ink or toner.
Texture can influence both aesthetic appeal and functionality, especially in printing, writing, or art applications.
| Texture Type | Features | Common Uses |
| Smooth | Polished, flat surface with no visible grain; allows crisp printing and writing | Office copy paper, laser printing, brochures |
| Rough | Obvious concave and convex feeling, enhancing artistic expression | Watercolor paper, sketch paper, and handmade paper |
| Embossed | Raised or recessed patterns for decorative effect | Premium packaging, wedding invitations |
3. Brightness/Color
Paper brightness measures how much blue light (wavelength ~457 nm) a paper surface reflects. It’s typically rated on a scale from 1 to 100, with higher numbers indicating a brighter and more reflective sheet.
A brighter paper produces better contrast between the paper and printed elements, making images and text appear sharper, cleaner, and more vibrant.
| Brightness Range(%) | Visual Effects | Common Uses |
| 80~84% | Low brightness; warmer tone | Marketing brochures, premium laser printing, and photo paper |
| 85~89% | Standard whiteness | Copier paper, everyday inkjet/laser printing |
| 90~100% | Very bright; crisp contrast, true color reproduction | Recycled paper, drafts, eco-friendly applications |
4. Coating & Finish
In paper manufacturing, coating refers to the application of a surface layer (often clay or polymer-based) that alters how ink sits on the paper, while finish describes the final texture and visual effect of the paper surface.
Both coating and finish affect print quality, color vibrancy, ink absorption, and the tactile experience.
| Finish Type | Features | Common Uses |
| Glossy | Highly reflective, colorful, but easy to leave fingerprints | Posters, photos, and magazine covers |
| Matte | Non-reflective, soft eye protection | Book pages, high-end picture albums |
| Coated | Coating with mineral or polymer (waterproofing/enhancing printing) | Food packaging paper, label paper |
| Uncoated | Natural fiber feel, strong ink absorption | Letter paper, sketch paper, watercolor paper |
5. Acidity (pH)
Acidity (pH) in paper refers to the degree of acidity or alkalinity of the paper’s composition. It is measured on a scale from 0 to 14, with 7 being neutral. Below 7 is considered acidic, and above 7 is alkaline (basic).
The pH level of paper has significant implications for its longevity, durability, and suitability for certain uses.
| pH Level | Characteristics | Common Uses | Longevity |
| Acidic (< 7) | Yellowing, brittleness, and quick degradation | Low-grade paper, newspapers, non-archival books | Short-term, 2–5 years |
| Neutral (7) | Standard durability and color | General office paper, stationery | Moderate, 5–10 years |
| Alkaline (> 7) | High resistance to degradation, retains brightness | Archival materials, high-end print jobs, books, and documents | Long-term, 50+ years |
Types of Paper by Application
When choosing the right types of paper, it’s important to understand what different types of paper are used for. Whether it’s for printing, writing, packaging, or creative art.
Different types of paper have their unique properties, such as ink absorption for printing, durability for packaging, and texture for art. In this section, we’ll explore some of the most common paper types and their uses.
Types of paper: Printing Paper
Printing papers are the most widely used types of paper in daily life, mainly used for graphic printing. Copy paper, inkjet paper, photo paper, and newsprint used for newspaper printing commonly used in offices all belong to this category.
These types of paper have a smooth surface and stable ink absorption performance, which can ensure clear printed text and accurate image color.
1. Laser Paper
Laser paper is engineered specifically for laser printers and copiers, featuring a smooth surface for sharp text and graphics, along with heat-resistant properties to withstand high fuser temperatures (typically 180–220°C). This prevents curling, jamming, or toner smudging, ensuring crisp, professional-quality prints.
Surface finish:
Smooth and heat-resistant, ensuring precise toner adhesion.
Brightness：90–98
High brightness for sharp text and clean, professional prints.
Weight:
Typically ranges from 80 gsm to 120 gsm.
Material:
High-quality wood pulp
Printing:
Ideal for laser printers; produces crisp text and graphics without smudging.
Durability:
Resists curling and fading; holds up well over time.
Uses:
Perfect for business reports, letters, forms, and office printing.
2. Inkjet Paper
Inkjet paper is one of the most common types of paper, specially engineered for use with inkjet printers, which spray liquid ink directly onto the surface.
Unlike general-purpose paper, inkjet paper is coated or treated to absorb ink quickly and evenly, preventing smudging and producing sharp text and vibrant images.
It comes in various finishes and weights to suit both everyday printing and high-resolution photo output.
Surface finish:
Available in matte, satin, or glossy finishes to suit different print needs.
Brightness：85–97
Bright enough for vivid colors and detailed images; varies by finish.
Material:
Wood pulp or cotton fibers.
Weight:
Ranges from 90 gsm to 300 gsm.
Printing:
Engineered for inkjet printers, ensures sharp images and vibrant colors with fast drying times.
Durability:
Good ink hold and color stability; may be less water-resistant unless coated.
Uses:
Used for flyers, presentations, photos, and color-rich documents.
3. Photo Paper
Photo paper is a high-quality, specially coated paper designed to reproduce images with exceptional clarity, color accuracy, and detail. These types of paper are used in inkjet or dye-sublimation printers to produce lab-quality photographs at home or in professional settings.
The coating allows the paper to absorb ink precisely without bleeding, making it ideal for sharp image rendering and long-lasting photo prints. Available in a range of finishes and thicknesses, photo paper supports both artistic and commercial printing needs.
Surface finish:
Available in glossy, matte, satin, or pearl finishes.
Brightness：95–100+
Ultra-bright for vibrant, high-contrast photo reproduction.
Weight:
Typically ranges from 180 gsm to 300+ gsm.
Material:
wood pulp or resin-coated paper.
Printing:
Optimized for inkjet printers; delivers high-resolution, full-color prints with excellent detail.
Durability:
Often coated to resist water, fingerprints, and fading, archival-quality options are available for long-term storage.
Uses:
Ideal for photographs, greeting cards, photo albums, marketing materials, and art prints.
4. Newsprint
Newsprints are a low-cost, lightweight types of paper made primarily from groundwood pulp. It is designed for high-speed, mass printing and is most commonly used in newspapers, advertising inserts, and low-cost publications.
Newsprint has a slightly rough texture, a dull finish, and lower brightness, making it ideal for single-use, short-term applications. While not designed for longevity, its affordability and printability make it a practical choice for large-volume printing.
Surface finish:
Slightly rough and uncoated with a dull, matte appearance that reduces glare.
Brightness：55–70
Low brightness; soft tone suitable for bulk, short-term printing.
Weight:
Typically lightweight, ranging from 40 gsm to 52 gsm.
Material:
Mainly groundwood.
Printing:
Designed for high-speed offset printing; suitable for black-and-white and low-resolution color prints.
Durability:
Not archival; prone to yellowing, tearing, and fading over time. Intended for short-term use.
Uses:
Used for newspapers, advertising flyers, coupon inserts, instruction manuals, and recycled packaging.
Types of paper: Packaging Paper
Wrapping paper refers to a large category of paper used to wrap, cover, or protect goods.
It covers all types of paper from decorative gift wrapping paper, food packaging paper, to sturdy industrial papers such as kraft paper and corrugated paper.
Whether it is used for display, brand promotion, or express packaging, wrapping paper is very common in our work and daily life.
5. Kraft Paper
Kraft papers are durable, high-strength types of paper made primarily from unbleached wood pulp using the kraft process. Known for its natural brown color and coarse texture, it offers excellent tear resistance and versatility.
Due to its strength and eco-friendliness, kraft paper is widely used in packaging, wrapping, and industrial applications, as well as in eco-conscious product lines.
Surface finish:
Typically coarse and uncoated, with a natural, rustic appearance.
Brightness: 40–60
Low brightness; usually brown or off-white.
Weight:
Ranges from 50 gsm to 200 gsm, depending on use.
Material:
chemical wood pulp.
Printing:
Accepts flexographic, screen, and inkjet printing; best for simple logos or text due to texture and color.
Durability:
Very strong and tear-resistant.
Uses:
Used in grocery bags, wrapping paper, e-commerce mailers, envelopes, and protective packaging.
6. Corrugated Paper
Corrugated paper is a sturdy, multi-layered material made from a fluted (wavy) inner layer sandwiched between two flat linerboards. This structure provides excellent strength, cushioning, and crush resistance, making it the go-to material for shipping boxes, packaging, and protective inserts.
Lightweight yet durable, corrugated paper is widely used in logistics, e-commerce, and retail packaging.
Surface finish:
Generally uncoated and rough on the outer liner, the inner fluted layer is hidden and adds thickness.
Brightness: 40–65
Typically low brightness; natural brown or gray tone.
Weight:
Typically 120 gsm to 300+ gsm per layer.
Material:
softwood pulp.
Printing:
Supports flexographic and digital printing; surface texture limits fine detail but works well for logos, barcodes, and branding.
Durability:
Highly durable and impact-resistant for stacking and protecting items during transport.
Uses:
Ideal for shipping cartons, product packaging, display stands, protective inserts, and industrial trays.
7. White Cardboard
White cardboard, also known as white paperboard or folding box board (FBB), is a thick, smooth, and rigid paper material coated with a white surface on one or both sides.
It offers excellent printability, stiffness, and a clean appearance, making it a preferred choice for product packaging, tags, greeting cards, and high-end printed materials.
It combines visual appeal with structural strength, suitable for both protective and decorative uses.
Surface finish:
Smooth, often coated on one or both sides for a clean and professional look.
Brightness: 85–95
High brightness for sharp color contrast and a bright white appearance.
Weight:
Typically ranges from 200 gsm to 400 gsm.
Material:
Bleached chemical pulp.
Printing:
Excellent printability; supports offset, digital, and flexographic printing.
Durability:
Stiff and resistant to bending; holds shape well and protects contents effectively.
Uses:
Used for gift boxes, cosmetic packaging, greeting cards, hang tags, and luxury product displays.
8. Greyboard
Greyboard, also known as chipboard, is a thick, rigid paperboard made from 100% recycled fibers. These types of paper have a dense, gray-colored appearance with a rough texture and are widely used in applications that require structural support rather than visual appeal.
Economical and environmentally friendly, greyboard is commonly used as a backing material or inner layer in book covers, rigid boxes, clipboards, and packaging inserts.
Surface finish:
Uncoated, rough, and matte surface; not intended for decorative use, but can be laminated or covered.
Brightness: 30–50
Very low brightness; naturally gray due to recycled content and lack of bleaching.
Weight:
Typically ranges from 300 gsm to 1500 gsm.
Material:
100% recycled paper pulp.
Printing:
Not ideal for direct printing; usually laminated with coated paper or printed labels for better results.
Durability:
Highly rigid and structurally strong; excellent for support and protection, but not moisture-resistant.
Uses:
Used for bookbinding, rigid box structures, backings for pads or notepads, puzzles, and protective packaging.
9. Tissue Paper
Tissue papers are a lightweight, soft, and delicate types of paper typically made from bleached wood pulp. Known for its thin, semi-transparent texture, tissue paper is used in both protective packaging and decorative applications.
These types of paper are available in a variety of colors and finishes, making them ideal for gift wrapping, product presentation, and interleaving fragile items.
Surface finish:
Soft, smooth, and delicate, often semi-transparent; can be plain or lightly textured.
Brightness: 70–90
Typically high for white tissue; available in dyed or printed colors.
Weight:
Very lightweight, usually ranging from 10 gsm to 35 gsm.
Material:
Virgin or recycled wood pulp.
Printing:
Supports flexographic and screen printing; often printed with patterns, logos, or brand colors for decorative use.
Durability:
Low tear resistance; designed for single-use.
Uses:
Ideal for gift wrapping, interleaving delicate items, stuffing product packaging, and decorative retail presentation.
10. Wax Paper
Wax paper is one of the specialized types of paper designed for moisture and grease resistance. This coating gives the paper a smooth, slightly glossy finish and prevents the penetration of water, grease, and other contaminants.
Wax paper is widely used in food packaging, wrapping baked goods, and on non-stick surfaces for food prep. It’s valued for its flexibility, affordability, and suitability for short-term, disposable applications.
Surface finish:
Smooth and slightly glossy, due to the wax coating; non-stick and moisture-repellent.
Brightness: 75–90
Generally moderate to high; varies by base paper and wax type.
Weight:
Typically ranges from 25 gsm to 40 gsm.
Material:
Wood pulp paper.
Printing:
Supports flexographic and surface printing.
Durability:
Moderately durable for short-term use; resists grease and moisture but can tear under stress or high heat.
Uses:
Ideal for food wrapping, baked goods packaging, deli liners, non-stick food prep surfaces, and light moisture protection.
Types of paper: Art Paper
Art paper is paper designed for professional creation. Watercolor paper is thick and absorbent, suitable for repeated smudges; sketch paper has a slightly textured surface, which is convenient for pencil drawing; printmaking paper has a tough texture and can withstand multiple printing presses.
These types of paper are specially treated in thickness, texture, and absorbency to meet the needs of different artistic expressions. High-end art paper is also acid-free to ensure that the work can be preserved for a long time.
11. Watercolor Paper
Watercolor paper is one of the essential types of paper specifically designed to handle water-based media. Made from wood pulp or cotton, it features a textured surface and high absorbency, allowing pigments to blend smoothly without warping or bleeding.
Available in different weights and finishes, watercolor paper is a favorite among artists for techniques like washes, glazing, and layering.
Surface finish:
Available in smooth, medium, and rough textures.
Brightness: 80–90
Usually natural white or off-white to preserve color tone and depth.
Weight:
Typically ranges from 190 gsm to 800 gsm.
Material:
Cotton fibers or wood pulp.
Printing:
Not intended for standard printing; best for hand-painted artwork using watercolor or other wet media.
Durability:
Highly durable, especially 100% cotton papers; resists warping, tearing, and multiple washes.
Uses:
Ideal for watercolor painting, ink wash, gouache, and wet-on-wet techniques in both professional and student-level artwork.
12. Sketch Paper
Sketch paper is one of the most commonly used types of paper for artists, especially for quick drawings and practice work. Lightweight and usually slightly textured, it is designed for dry media like pencil, charcoal, and graphite.
Sketch paper is ideal for capturing ideas, rough compositions, and gesture drawings, making it a staple for students and professionals alike.
Surface finish:
Usually lightly textured or smooth.
Brightness: 70–90
White or slightly off-white; enough contrast for pencil and charcoal visibility.
Weight:
Ranges from 50 gsm to 100 gsm; lightweight and flexible.
Material:
Wood pulp.
Printing:
Not suitable for detailed printing; may be used for light draft printing if needed.
Durability:
Moderate durability; suitable for dry media.
Uses:
Best for drawings, sketches, and student practice using pencil, charcoal, or pastel.
13. Xuan Paper
Xuan paper is a traditional Chinese paper and one of the most unique types of paper used for calligraphy and brush painting. Known for its soft texture and excellent ink absorbency, it allows artists to create smooth, flowing strokes with rich expression.
Made from natural plant fibers like bark and rice straw, Xuan paper has been a favorite for centuries in both classical and contemporary art.
Surface finish:
Soft, smooth, and slightly fibrous; available in raw (unsized) or processed (sized) versions depending on ink absorbency needs.
Brightness: 70–85
Typically off-white or natural cream tone.
Weight:
Usually ranges from 30 gsm to 60 gsm, very lightweight and delicate.
Material:
Natural plant fibers.
Printing:
Not suitable for conventional printing; best for hand-applied ink or paint using brush techniques.
Durability:
Surprisingly durable when dry; resists aging and discoloration, must be handled gently.
Uses:
Ideal for Chinese calligraphy, ink painting, Sumi-e, and seal carving practice.
14. Printmaking Paper
Printmaking papers are specialized types of paper designed to handle the unique demands of traditional and modern printmaking techniques. Thicker, softer, and often made from high-quality cotton or other natural fibers, these types of paper are built to absorb ink evenly under pressure without tearing or warping.
It’s commonly used in processes like etching, lithography, screen printing, and woodblock printing, offering excellent texture, strength, and quality for fine art prints.
Surface finish:
Typically soft, lightly textured, or slightly toothed to hold ink well; available in smooth or deckle-edged variants for aesthetic appeal.
Brightness: 70–90
Often natural white, cream, or warm-toned to suit various ink and print styles.
Weight:
Usually ranges from 175 gsm to 400 gsm.
Material:
100% cotton fibers or a cotton and high-quality cellulose pulp.
Printing:
Designed for intaglio, relief, lithography, screen printing, and other fine art printmaking methods.
Durability:
Highly durable and archival, especially when made from 100% cotton or alpha cellulose; resists wear under press pressure.
Uses:
Ideal for etching, woodcut, monoprint, screen printing, and other professional printmaking techniques.
15. Colored Cardstock
Colored cardstock is a thick, sturdy, and vibrant type of paper commonly used for crafts, signage, packaging, and decorative printing. Unlike standard paper, cardstock has a heavier weight and comes in a wide range of colors and finishes, making it one of the most versatile types of paper for creative and professional projects.
Surface finish:
Usually smooth or lightly textured, with a matte or occasionally vellum finish; various vibrant or pastel colors.
Brightness:
Varies widely depending on color; not measured in standard brightness values like white paper.
Weight:
Typically ranges from 176 gsm to 300 gsm.
Material:
Wood pulp and recycled fibers.
Printing:
Compatible with laser and inkjet printers (check printer specs).
Durability:
Sturdy and long-lasting; resists bending and tearing better than regular paper.
Uses:
Ideal for greeting cards, invitations, flyers, scrapbooking, signage, packaging inserts, and arts & crafts.
Types of paper: Specialty Paper
Specialty paper is paper with certain special properties or visual effects that go beyond standard printing or writing. These types of paper include carbonless paper for copying forms, thermal paper for receipts, metallic luster and pearl paper for decoration, and adhesive paper for labeling purposes. You can choose specialty paper based on its performance and appearance.
16. Thermal Paper
Thermal papers are specialized types of paper that react to heat to produce text or images without the need for ink or toner. It’s coated with a heat-sensitive chemical layer that darkens when passed through a thermal printer.
As one of the most widely used types of paper in retail and logistics, thermal paper is commonly found in receipts, shipping labels, and ticketing systems due to its speed, clarity, and convenience.
To learn more about how it works, check out our guide: What is Thermal Paper?
Surface finish:
Smooth and glossy, with a heat-sensitive coating that reacts to thermal printer heads.
Brightness: 80–95
Bright white for clear image contrast.
Weight:
Typically ranges from 48 gsm to 80 gsm.
Material:
Wood pulp base paper coated with a heat-sensitive chemical layer.
Printing:
Designed for thermal printers, no ink or toner required; image is produced through heat exposure.
Durability:
Short-term use; sensitive to heat, friction, light, and chemicals. Images may fade when exposed to sunlight or high temperatures.
Uses:
Commonly used for retail receipts, shipping labels, parking tickets, and lottery slips.
17. Carbonless Paper (NCR)
Carbonless paper, also known as NCR (No Carbon Required) paper, are types of paper used to create duplicate or triplicate copies without using carbon sheets.
Commonly used in business forms like invoices and receipts, these types of paper transfers written or printed impressions from the top sheet to the sheets below through a pressure-sensitive coating. It’s efficient for multi-part documentation in offices, retail, and logistics.
Surface finish:
Smooth and uncoated, with invisible microcapsule coatings on the back of the top sheet and front of the lower sheets.
Brightness: 80–90
Typically white, pastel, or canary yellow.
Weight:
Usually ranges from 50 gsm to 100 gsm.
Material:
Wood pulp paper.
Printing:
Supports offset and digital printing; used to pre-print forms or custom branding on each sheet.
Durability:
Moderately durable; best for short-term use. The coating is pressure-sensitive and should be handled carefully before use.
Uses:
Ideal for invoices, receipts, delivery notes, order forms, and multi-part business documents.
18. Handmade Paper
Handmade paper is one of the most traditional and artistic types of paper, crafted manually from natural fibers like cotton, mulberry, or recycled pulp.
Known for its irregular texture, soft edges, and eco-friendly qualities, handmade paper stands out for its unique character and tactile appeal.
These types of paper are commonly used in invitations, art prints, crafts, and sustainable packaging—perfect for projects that value individuality and craftsmanship.
Surface finish:
Rough or lightly textured, often with deckled (uneven) edges.
Brightness: 60–85
Typically natural white, off-white, or tinted.
Weight:
Ranges from 100 gsm to 300 gsm.
Material:
Natural fibers such as cotton, hemp, jute, mulberry bark, or recycled paper pulp.
Printing:
Best for letterpress, screen printing, or handwritten work; not ideal for high-speed inkjet or laser printing due to surface irregularities.
Durability:
Strong and long-lasting, especially when made from cotton or other natural long fibers; resists tearing and aging well.
Uses:
Ideal for wedding invitations, greeting cards, art prints, journals, eco-friendly packaging, and craft projects.
19. Metallic / Pearlescent Paper
Metallic and pearlescent papers are premium types of paper known for their shimmering, light-reflective surfaces that add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any design.
Coated with mica or other reflective pigments, these papers have a subtle sparkle or sheen that catches the light beautifully. They are often used for wedding invitations, luxury packaging, greeting cards, and so on.
Surface finish:
Smooth, shimmery, and light-reflective surface; metallic tones (gold, silver, bronze) or soft pearlescent hues.
Brightness:
Brightness is not rated traditionally due to the reflective coating; it appears luminous rather than flat white.
Weight:
Typically ranges from 120 gsm to 300 gsm.
Material:
Wood pulp or cotton fibers.
Printing:
Supports laser, inkjet, and offset printing, though laser is preferred for sharper results on coated surfaces.
Durability:
Moderately durable; the coating resists smudging and moisture but can scratch if handled roughly.
Uses:
Ideal for wedding invitations, luxury business cards, event programs, gift tags, and premium packaging.
20. Adhesive Paper (Sticker Paper)
Adhesive paper, also known as sticker paper, is a versatile type of paper with a pressure-sensitive adhesive on one side and a peel-off backing on the other. These types of paper are widely used for labels, packaging, branding, and crafts.
Available in matte, glossy, transparent, and specialty finishes, adhesive paper comes in both permanent and removable options.
If you’re exploring sticker styles and applications, don’t miss our guide to “The 20 Most Popular Types of Stickers in 2025.“
Surface finish:
Available in matte, glossy, satin, kraft, or transparent finishes.
Brightness:
85–98 for white sticker paper; varies with color or specialty finishes.
Weight:
Typically ranges from 70 gsm to 150 gsm (excluding liner/backing).
Material:
Wood pulp-based, coated with pressure-sensitive adhesive.
Printing:
Compatible with inkjet, laser, offset, and digital printers.
Durability:
Moderately durable; depends on adhesive type (permanent or removable) and finish. Waterproof or weather-resistant versions are available for outdoor use.
Uses:
Ideal for product labels, packaging stickers, address labels, branding decals, promotional stickers, and DIY crafts.
How to Choose the Right Paper for Your Needs
Choosing the right types of paper goes beyond appearance; it requires understanding how the paper will be used, what it will be printed on, and how it should perform. The right choice can improve print quality, strengthen presentation, and even reduce costs. Below are four key factors to consider:
Purpose
The first step in choosing the right paper is understanding what it’s being used for. Are you printing documents, creating packaging, or producing artwork? Each use case demands different types of paper.
Print Method
The type of printer or printing process you’re using plays a major role in paper selection. Inkjet, laser, offset, or screen printing all interact differently with various paper surfaces and coatings. Choosing paper that matches your print method ensures professional results without smudging or print distortion.
Texture
Paper texture affects both the tactile feel and how it interacts with ink, toner, or other media. Smooth for sharp prints, textured for art or specialty finishes, texture affects both feel and appearance. The right texture can elevate your project both visually and physically.
Budget
Paper comes in a wide price range. Higher GSM and coated or specialty papers tend to cost more. Balancing quality with budget ensures you get the best value without overspending.
FAQ
What is thicker paper called?
Thicker paper is commonly called cardstock or cover stock. For even heavier applications like packaging, it’s called paperboard or cardboard.
What is professional paper?
Professional paper refers to high-quality paper used for business, formal, or high-end printing purposes. It often has a smooth or premium finish, higher GSM, and may be coated for sharper print results. Common types include matte, glossy, linen, or heavyweight papers used for resumes, reports, presentations, certificates, and business stationery.
Is copy paper the same as printer paper?
Yes, copy paper and printer paper are often used interchangeably, but there is a slight difference:
- Copy paper is typically lightweight (around 70–80 gsm) and designed for high-speed black-and-white printing or photocopying.
- Printer paper is a broader term that can refer to paper used in both inkjet and laser printers, and may include specialty finishes or heavier weights for color printing or graphics.
So, all copy paper is printer paper, but not all printer paper is copy paper.
Is heavier printer paper better？
Not always, it depends on your needs.
Heavier printer paper (90–120 gsm)
- Feels more professional
- Reduces show-through
- Better for presentations, resumes, and double-sided printing
Lighter printer paper (70–80 gsm)
- More economical
- Suitable for everyday use and bulk printing
So, heavier paper is better for quality, but lighter paper is better for cost and volume. Choose based on the purpose.
What type of paper to package elegant boxes?
For elegant boxes, the best types of paper are:
- Art paper: Smooth, glossy, or matte finish; great for luxury printing and lamination.
- Pearlescent or metallic paper: Adds a shimmery, upscale look; ideal for high-end packaging.
- White cardboard (C1S/C2S): Sturdy and printable; commonly used for premium folding cartons.
- Textured paper (like linen or embossed): Gives a tactile, refined feel to box surfaces.
- Wrapped paper over rigid board: Often used in rigid gift boxes, combining visual appeal with strength.
These papers enhance the look, feel, and brand value of elegant product packaging.
What is the difference between recycled and virgin paper?
Recycled paper is made from used paper and is more eco-friendly.
Virgin paper is made from new wood pulp and is usually smoother, brighter, and stronger.
What to consider when choosing environmentally friendly paper?
Recycled content: Look for high post-consumer recycled percentage.
FSC or PEFC certification: Ensures the paper comes from responsibly managed forests.
Bleaching process: Prefer TCF (Totally Chlorine Free) or PCF (Process Chlorine Free).
Sustainability labels: Check for eco-labels like Blue Angel, EU Ecolabel, or Green Seal.
Conclusion
There are so many different types of paper on the market, and choosing the right one makes your experience smoother and your results better.
Whether you’re looking for everyday printing paper, wrapping paper, or drawing paper, understanding the types of paper can help you make a more informed decision. I hope this guide helps you choose the perfect paper for your needs.
