Paper can make or break a job, it’s as simple as that. You can have a beautifully designed piece, but if you choose the wrong paper, it won’t have the impact you envisioned. The right paper enhances your design, conveys the right message to your audience, and supports the functionality of the final product.
So, how do you choose the best paper for your project? It all comes down to a few key factors:
Purpose & Intended Audience
Before selecting the paper, consider the purpose of your project. The type of piece you’re producing dictates the paper’s weight, finish, and overall quality. The audience plays a big role too. If you’re creating an upscale beauty product package, a thicker, sturdier folding carton conveys a sense of luxury and durability. On the other hand, if you’re printing thousands of flyers for mass distribution, a lighter, more affordable stock might make more sense. Different audiences have different expectations when it comes to the look and feel of printed materials.
Coated vs. Uncoated Paper
One of the biggest misconceptions is that coated paper is always more expensive than uncoated but it’s often the opposite.
- Coated papers (gloss, satin, or matte) have a smooth surface that enhances image clarity and color vibrancy. They’re ideal for brochures, magazines, and packaging where sharp visuals matter.
- Uncoated papers have a natural, textured feel that works well for brochures, magazines, direct mail and stationery. However, they absorb more ink, therefore they achieve greater optimum results when printed with UV inks and combined with specialized printing techniques.
Weight & Durability
The weight of your paper impacts everything from the feel of the piece to its durability.
- Lighter weights work well for publications, flyers, brochures, and large-volume prints.
- Heavier weights are ideal for covers, direct mail, postcards, business cards and packaging, providing a premium, sturdy feel.
- For packaging, board weight is critical, if too flimsy, the product may seem low quality; too rigid, and it might not fold properly.
Another factor to consider is longevity. A diploma, for example, is printed on a premium, heavy stock because it’s meant to be kept for a lifetime, while a magazine can use a thinner paper since it has a shorter shelf life.
Budget & Sustainability
Your budget plays a big role in paper selection. Paper can be one of the most expensive aspects of a print job, so it’s important to balance cost with quality.
- A well-chosen mid-range stock can elevate a project without overspending.
- Sustainable options, like FSC-certified or recycled paper, can align with your brand’s values and environmental goals.
Bringing It All Together
Choosing the right paper isn’t just about aesthetics, it affects the entire experience of the printed piece. The texture, weight, and finish all contribute to the final product’s effectiveness. At Allied, we understand that paper is a critical component of any print job, and our experts are here to help you make the best choice for your project.
If you’re unsure about which paper to use, reach out to us! We’re happy to guide you in the right direction and ensure your project looks exactly how you envision it. Contact us today!
