The type of paper you choose to print your product on has a huge impact on the final look and feel of your product. Paper coatings can affect the texture and shine of your products as well as how the ink sits or is absorbed into the paper. Requesting a free paper sample pack is the best way to see and feel the difference between our coating options.

What are Coated Paper Stocks?

Coated paper stocks use a coating to fill in the gaps between paper fibers. This creates an ultra smooth feel and shine. We offer gloss and silk coated papers. Gloss coated papers are our shiniest, smoothest option. Silk coated paper has a more subtle shine. Be aware that coated paper’s shine can be an issue in very reflective areas. Additionally, coated paper can be challenging to write on.

Benefits of Coated Paper

• Ink sits on top of the paper, creating very vibrant colors
• Shiny finish makes images pop
• Coating helps repel water and dirt
• Compatible with our soft-touch coating

Coated Paper Uses

• Products that need vibrant images and colors
• Products that need a smooth, shiny look
• Common Uses:
  • Calendars
  • Direct Mail Postcards
  • Brochures
  • Booklet Covers
  • Packaging Sleeves

What are Uncoated Paper Stocks?

Uncoated paper stocks do not have any coating to fill in gaps between paper fibers. Because of this, these papers are more porous and textured. They do not have any shine and are more absorbent. This category of paper includes our uncoated 100% PCW stock and our kraft stocks.

Will my design have a shiny finish when printed on an uncoated stock?

Designs printed on uncoated paper will not have any shine or glare. Since there is no coating over the paper fibers, light is diffused more evenly and not reflected like on coated paper.

Benefits of Uncoated Paper

• No shine to distract from design
• Easy to write on with any writing instrument
• Rougher, more natural character
• Only option for envelopes

Uncoated Paper Uses

• Designs that focus on text rather than images
• Eco-friendly, natural products
• Common Uses:
  • Envelopes
  • Letterheads
  • Notepads
  • Invitations
  • Greeting Cards

How are Coated Paper Stocks Different from Coatings?

Coated paper stocks are different from products that feature our soft-touch coating. Coated paper stocks are coated by the paper mill before the paper reaches our facilities and printing begins. Our soft-touch coating is added after printing finishes in our facilities. Our soft-touch coating can only be added to products produced on coated stocks.