Choosing the Right Paper for Your Project

Choosing the right paper type can sometimes be confusing as there are numerous different types and brands of paper on the market today. Choosing an ink cartridges for your printer maybe relatively easy as you can only select the cartridge that will work with your printer but the paper you print your project on is important an can affect how your finished item is perceived. It can be a good idea to request a sample from your paper supplier if possible and run a few test sheets out first.

Different types of paper have different finishes. It’s the surface texture that makes the papers feel different when they are handled.

1. Wove or Smooth paper - This paper has a smooth uncoated surface.
2. Laid - This paper is made with textured lines and has a ribbed feel to it. It's popular for business stationery such as letterheads, business cards, compliment slips and envelopes. This can be a more expensive item and can be used where quality is of importance. Test your printer will work with laid paper and that the ink cartridge will print evenly on the surface.
3. Linen - This is of a similar nature to Laid paper. It too has the textured lines but in a much finer detail. This quality paper actually has 'linen' feel to it and again is a firm favourite with businesses trying to create a good impression with their clients. Again, like the Laid paper, it would be a good idea to run a test sheet through your printer to make sure the printer will accept the paper and the ink cartridges will print on this paper.
4. Laser Guaranteed Paper - This is general everyday laser printer paper that is guaranteed to work with the laser printer. Laser guaranteed means that the printer is guaranteed to accept the paper and the toner ink will print onto the paper.
5. Coated paper - Coated paper has been coated with a wax finish and a sample should be tried if possible before purchasing large quantities of it to make sure your printer accepts it.
6. Uncoated Paper - A dull and unreflective paper and can feel rough' to the touch.

Another factor to consider is the weight of the paper. Of course this will depend on your printer. If you are using a standard inkjet printer that accepts standard ink cartridges it's likely you will be limited to a maximum of 120gsm. The specs of the printer will give you the maximum weight that you may use effectively. A laser printer that uses laser toner ink will usually permit you to use heavier weighted paper but not card. Print on anything heavier will usually require the services of a professional commercial printer.

First Published at PrinterInkCartridges.ie