Paper Stocks

Common Questions (FAQ) About Printing and Copy Paper

What does paper weight mean in printing?

Paper weight describes how heavy, thick and sturdy a sheet feels, which affects how your printed piece looks, handles, and performs. In digital printing, paper weight is commonly listed in pounds (# or lb) using familiar production sheet sizes. Selecting an appropriate paper weight helps support reliable feeding through digital presses, consistent image quality, and the right level of durability for the finished piece.

Because different customers may be coming from a digital printing or offset printing background, most of the paper stocks below show both the digital and offset weight. For example, in the case of 20/50# Bond, 20# refers to the weight of a 500-sheet ream of 11" x 22" paper commonly used in digital printing. On the other hand, 50# refers to 500 sheets of 25x38" which is a common sheet size for offset printing.

How is paper weight different from paper thickness in points (pt)?

Paper thickness is often referenced in points (pt) to make it easier to compare stiffness across different paper types. One point equals 1/1000 of an inch, so higher point values indicate a thicker, stiffer sheet. Paper weight (lb) and thickness (pt) are related, but they are not the same. Coated papers and cover stocks may be slightly thicker or thinner in points than uncoated papers at the same listed weight.

More Details About Printer Paper

Digital printing paper weights at a glance

• Bond and text weights (20-32 lb): lighter, flexible papers commonly used for letters, forms, manuals, and multi page documents.
• Cover weights (65-130 lb): heavier, more rigid card stock papers used for postcards, covers, sell sheets, and marketing pieces.
• Point thickness (pt): a direct measurement of sheet thickness that helps compare stiffness across paper types and coatings.

How do paper types affect print quality?

Paper type and surface finish influence color, contrast, glare, and how crisp text appears. Uncoated papers typically provide excellent readability and are easy to write on, while coated papers tend to increase color saturation and image contrast. For digital printing, the right combination of paper weight, finish, and coating helps your piece look intentional and professional while also performing well during production.

Paper type definitions for custom printing

Bond paper (uncoated)

Bond paper is an uncoated paper designed for readability and writability. It has a matte surface that accepts toner cleanly with minimal glare, which makes it well suited for text heavy documents, forms, and everyday business printing. Bond papers are often listed in the 20-32 lb range and typically have a lower point thickness than coated stocks.

Smooth paper (uncoated)

Smooth paper is an uncoated stock with a more refined surface than standard bond. While technically uncoated, it has a smooth, matte-like finish which is more consistent than uncoated bond paper. It supports sharp text and clean graphics while maintaining strong readability and writability. Smooth papers are commonly selected for professional reports, letterhead, and presentation handouts.

Linen paper (textured uncoated)

Linen paper is an uncoated paper with a subtle embossed crosshatch texture that resembles woven fabric. The textured surface adds a tactile, upscale feel while still supporting clear text and moderate color reproduction. Linen stocks are commonly used for letterhead, certificates, invitations, and professional business materials where appearance and touch are important.

Because of its textured surface, linen paper can slightly reduce image sharpness compared to smooth papers, making it better suited for text-focused designs than detailed photographs.

Semi gloss paper (coated)

Semi gloss paper has a light coating that improves color and image contrast while reducing glare compared to a full gloss finish. It provides a balanced appearance that works well for flyers, brochures, and marketing pieces that include photos or graphics. All of the gloss-labeled paper stocks we carry, except for the 12pt C1S High Gloss Cover, are technically semi gloss.

High Gloss C1S Cover stock (coated one side)

High gloss C1S cover stock is a heavy paper coated on one side only. The coated side has a bright, photo-like glossy finish that helps colors appear more vibrant, while the uncoated back can be easier for writing. This stock is commonly used for postcards, covers, and premium promotional pieces. High gloss C1S is often thicker and commonly measures about 10-14pt depending on weight.

Coated C2S cover stock (coated two sides)

Coated C2S cover stock is coated on both sides for consistent color and image quality across the front and back. It is not as glossy as semi gloss or high gloss C1S, but it still has a slight shine that enhances graphics while maintaining a more refined finish. C2S cover stocks are frequently used for menus, business cards, postcards, and durable marketing materials.

Choosing paper for a custom digital print job

When selecting paper for your custom printing project, consider how the piece will be used, handled, and viewed. Lighter bond and smooth papers are typically best for reading and writing, while heavier cover stocks and higher point thicknesses add stiffness, durability, and a premium feel. Matching paper weight and finish to your project helps ensure the final piece meets expectations for both appearance and performance.