October 3rd 2016 in Technology
The world of paper can appear to be quite complicated, dozens of paper names sold by an array of merchants. The aim of this blog is to de-mystify and simplify the choice of papers
Coated paper
Coated paper can be called Gloss or Art (shiny paper), or Silk, Matt and Satin (all matt paper). The surface of this type of paper has a coating which is smooth which provide a great surface to print detailed images, as the ink doesn’t absorb into the sheet readily and it sits on the surface.
Uncoated paper
Uncoated paper can also be called Offset, which has no coating and has a rougher more absorbent surface. With traditional litho printing, images printed on this type of paper can look a little flat and “milky” as the image blots into the sheet. However using the waterless process that we employ at Park Lane Press we don’t have these issues, and are able to achieve a similar result as achieved on a coated stock. We’re specialists in printing on uncoated stock and many of our clients come to us first because of the results we’re able to produce.
FSC papers
The good news is that nearly all the paper supplied into the UK is either FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification). This means that there is a record, or chain of custody, to track, and therefore prove, where the tree was grown and made into paper, in order to protect Intact Forest Landscapes (IFLs) like the rainforest.
Recycled paper
Recycled paper has improved over the decades and is no longer a poor quality alternative. There is very little to differentiate between an FSC or a recycled sheet, except for a marginal colour difference, and is indistinguishable once printed on. Recycled paper is available in both coated and uncoated.
Recycled paper is more expensive but if the print run is small – say up to 2000 copies. This may not have a big impact on the overall price of the job so it may be worth considering.
Premium sheets
Many designers will specify premium sheets, such as coloured boards and super smooth papers, which can make a massive impact on the finished job. However the price can hike dramatically and the printers will more than likely cover in ink and seal with a coating which can lose the characteristics of the original paper! It’s always worth speaking to us and we can advise on cheaper alternatives which will help the budget in most cases.
Whichever route you choose, we can supply the relevant FSC logos and blurb to show that it has been printed in an environmentally-friendly way. A member of our team will be pleased to help if in doubt.
