Printing Guide
Choose The Right Paper Stock For Your Project
Choosing the right paper stock can make a big difference to how your printed materials look, feel, and perform. Here’s a simple guide to help you pick the best option.
What is paper stock?
Paper stock refers to the thickness, weight, and finish of the paper. These qualities affect the look, feel, and durability of your prints.
Choosing the right weight
Paper weight is measured in grams per square metre (GSM).
- 80–100gsm
- Standard office paper. Light and flexible, ideal for everyday printing or documents that will be handled often.
- 130–150gsm
- Premium text weight. Slightly thicker with a more professional feel, great for flyers, brochures, or booklets.
- 200–250gsm
- Card-like but still bendable. Perfect for covers, menus, postcards, and quality brochures.
- 300–350gsm
- Heavy card stock. Sturdy and durable, ideal for business cards, invitations, and premium covers.
- 420gsm+
- Our heaviest stocks. Thick and rigid, for the thickest business cards, hang tags and anything that needs real weight in the hand.
Choosing the right finish
The finish affects the appearance and feel of your paper.
- Matte
- Smooth, low-shine finish. Modern and elegant.
- Gloss
- Shiny and vibrant. Colours pop, making it great for photos or marketing materials.
- Uncoated
- Standard, everyday paper with a natural feel. Easy to write on.
- Recycled
- A textured, uncoated stock with a higher-end feel. A favourite for annual reports, premium booklets and eco-minded brands.
- Linen
- Premium woven texture. The classic choice for invitations, weddings and events.
Tips for choosing
- Use lighter stocks for high-volume prints or anything that needs folding.
- Use heavier stocks to create a premium, long-lasting impression.
- Match the finish to the job: matte for elegance, gloss for vibrant visuals, uncoated when it needs writing on, linen or recycled when texture matters.
Choosing the right paper stock helps your materials stand out, feel professional, and make the right impression on your audience.