Here is a beginner’s guide about understanding the types of
printing papers available in the market and what suits your requirements the
most. Choosing a paper for your printing job is not as easy as you think it is.
There are many considerations to keep in mind while when selecting a paper.
Different printing needs need different papers not any one can fit all. So,
here is how you can choose the right paper after seeing the options available.
Matte Papers:
It is a dull paper
but considered most classy for elegant printing jobs requirement. Most of the paper manufacturing companies produce
and merchandise this paper. There is no glare or reflection in the paper and thus no
problem of finger print marks or dust collection over them. Matte paper is not
glossy and therefore finger marks or glare from the sun are not a problem. But
the disadvantages are that it soaks a lot of ink thus affecting the sharpness
of the image. Also there are different forms like semi-matte available for use.
Glossy Papers:
The most commonly used papers for printing snapshots and
photographs because it produces vibrant colors and sharp images as well as is
lustrous and looks good and smooth and reflective. The disadvantages of glossy
papers are that they collect a lot of dust over their surface. Also, its high
reflection sometimes blurs the picture while viewing under the sun. Glossy
paper costs less than matte paper and has variations that include semi-gloss,
premium grade and brand specific like canon to be used with their own printers.
Most of the paper manufacturing
companies produce glossy paper as well as it has high demand.
UV Gloss:
It is a technique with which an image is printed on a glossy
paper and then coated with ultra violet garnish before drying it by exposure to
UV radiation. The result is a highly shiny and glossy surface used for
highlighting areas out of the rest of the design. It is used for business cards.
Silk Coated:
It is also a technique where the picture or the printing job
is coated with a silk coating and it produces a finish somewhere between matte
and gloss paper. Not paper manufacturing
companies but printing companies use this technique.