Understanding the Different Paper Stocks

Understanding the Different Paper Stocks for Your Print Projects

Choosing the right paper stock for your print project can make all the difference in how professional, impactful, and durable your final product looks and feels. At 1-800 Flyers, we offer a range of paper types, each with its unique characteristics in terms of thickness, finish, and durability. Here's a breakdown of the paper stocks we offer to help you choose the best option for your needs:

1. Economy Paper (70lb Text)

• Characteristics: Lightweight, flexible, and affordable, this paper stock is ideal for bulk mailings, leaflets, or large volumes of informational flyers.
• Thickness: This stock is thinner than standard copy paper, making it easy to fold and distribute.
• Example Uses: Handout flyers at events, menus, or mass marketing materials.

2. Economy Paper (80lb Text, Semi-Glossy Both Sides)

• Characteristics: Slightly thicker than the 70lb text, this semi-gloss finish gives your printed pieces a subtle sheen without overwhelming glare.
• Thickness: Similar to a magazine page, offering a step up in durability compared to lighter stocks.
• Example Uses: Brochures, newsletters, or catalogs that need a balance between weight and appearance.

3. Economy Paper (80lb Text, Matte Both Sides)

• Characteristics: The same weight as the semi-gloss version but with a matte finish, providing a smooth and shine-free surface that is easy to write on.
• Thickness: Similar to a premium magazine or pamphlet.
• Example Uses: Print pieces where writing or clarity is crucial, such as forms, reports, or mailers.

4. Standard Cover (80lb Cover, Gloss Both Sides)

• Characteristics: A medium-thick, durable cover stock with a glossy finish that enhances color vibrancy and makes images pop.
• Thickness: Stiffer and more substantial than text paper, providing a high-quality, professional feel.
• Example Uses: Business cards, brochures, and presentation folders where you need a sturdy, colorful appearance.

5. Premium Cover (100lb Cover, Gloss Both Sides)

• Characteristics: Thicker and more durable than the 80lb cover, this stock adds an extra layer of sturdiness. The gloss finish maximizes the vibrancy of colors and adds a professional sheen.
• Thickness: Feels substantial and stiff, offering a more premium touch.
• Example Uses: Luxury brochures, high-end business cards, or product catalogs that need to leave a lasting impression.

6. Premium Cover (100lb Text, Matte Both Sides)

• Characteristics: While thick and sturdy, the matte finish reduces shine, giving this paper a smooth, professional feel with excellent readability.
• Thickness: Comparable to thick magazine covers but easier to write on than glossy options.
• Example Uses: Premium brochures, custom booklets, or invitations where design and functionality both matter.

7. Basic Cardstock (10pt. Gloss Both Sides)

• Characteristics: Cardstock is thicker and stiffer than text paper, making this a solid choice for more durable printed materials. The gloss finish on both sides gives it a smooth, reflective look.
• Thickness: Equivalent to a thin business card or postcard, making it suitable for everyday needs.
• Example Uses: Standard business cards, small posters, or direct mail pieces where durability is essential.

8. Basic Cardstock (10pt. Matte Both Sides)

• Characteristics: The same thickness as the 10pt gloss stock, but with a matte finish that’s easier to write on and has a more subtle, professional look.
• Thickness: Feels substantial yet versatile, ideal for materials that need to balance durability and design.
• Example Uses: Business cards, appointment cards, and invitations where texture and legibility matter.

9. Standard Cardstock (14pt. Front Gloss, Back Uncoated)

• Characteristics: This is a thicker stock with a gloss finish on the front for visual appeal and an uncoated back, making it perfect for writing or stamping.
• Thickness: This stock feels like a premium business card, offering more durability than lighter stocks.
• Example Uses: Business cards, postcards, or product tags where both appearance and functionality are needed.

10. Standard Cardstock (14pt. Gloss Both Sides)

• Characteristics: A thick, sturdy stock with a glossy finish on both sides, designed to enhance the richness of colors and the sharpness of images.
• Thickness: Feels durable and premium, ideal for long-lasting, high-quality print materials.
• Example Uses: Premium business cards, postcards, or high-end brochures.

11. Standard Cardstock (14pt. Matte Both Sides)

• Characteristics: The same thickness as the 14pt gloss stock but with a smooth, matte finish on both sides. Matte stock has less glare and is easy to write on.
• Thickness: Substantial and sturdy, offering a professional and subdued finish.
• Example Uses: Business cards, flyers, or professional presentation materials where a refined, understated look is desired.

12. Thick Cardstock (16pt. Matte Both Sides)

• Characteristics: The thickest stock we offer, this 16pt matte cardstock is highly durable, offering both a strong visual impact and a feel of quality in hand.
• Thickness: Heavier than a typical business card, with a solid, premium feel.
• Example Uses: High-end business cards, luxury invitations, or postcards designed to leave a lasting impression.

13. Standard Cardstock (14pt. Linen Paper)

• Characteristics: This premium cardstock has a textured, linen-like finish that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication. The texture gives it a tactile quality that’s perfect for formal or high-end uses.
• Thickness: Similar in weight to other 14pt stocks, but the textured finish makes it feel more substantial and luxurious.
• Example Uses: Ideal for invitations, premium business cards, or any project where you want to convey a sense of quality and refinement.

        With its unique texture, 14pt Linen Paper is perfect for creating a memorable impression, making it a great choice for luxury                 stationery, event invitations, or business cards that need to stand out.

Choosing the Right Stock for Your Project

• For everyday printing: Economy paper stocks are perfect for handouts, mass mailers, or other high-volume, budget-conscious needs.
• For premium presentations: Choose a glossy or matte cardstock in 14pt or higher for more durable, high-quality pieces that will stand out.
• For writing needs: Matte finishes or uncoated backs are ideal for projects where text or handwritten notes will be added.

Each of these paper stocks offers a unique balance of durability, finish, and thickness to fit the specific needs of your project. Whether you need a sleek, high-gloss finish to make your business cards stand out or a subtle, matte look for professional brochures, we’ve got you covered at 1-800 Flyers.

Feel free to contact us with any questions and a member of our team can help you decide.