Types of Paper for Printers

Your average computer printer can output many different types of jobs, from term papers to brochures. But it helps to know which type of paper is suitable to each job and how well the computer will handle it.

Copy (stock) Paper

Regular copy or stock paper has medium thickness, and is normally a very bright white. A notable exception is recycled copy paper, which can be a little bit duller than regular copy paper. Copy paper has no finish, so it is ideal for academic papers, fliers, or internal documents. Copy paper is also very inexpensive, as it is very easy to produce.

Glossy Paper

Glossy paper is much thicker than copy paper, and has a thick glossy layer and firm matte backing. The glossy layer can be made of several materials, but it must have a certain level of porosity so that the ink can stick. The matte layer covering the bottom of the paper is to help keep the glossy paper from sticking. Glossy paper is perfect for pictures, posters, and high-quality fliers.

Matte Paper

Matte paper is like glossy paper, but instead of having a shiny top, both sides have a matte finish. This paper is often used for important documents and pictures. Matte paper is also commonly used as stationary, as the matte finish handles printer ink as well as pen ink very well.

Hard Stock

Hard stock paper is a heavier style of paper that has a thickness similar to cardboard. This type of stock paper is most often used for paper dividers, tags for retail items, and stylized advertisements. If you are using a laser printer, the toner tends to run on hard stock, so it is best to use this type of paper in another printer.

Linen

Linen paper is a specialized stock that is woven from paper pulp rather than just pressed. This gives the paper a very stylized finish, and makes it perfect for fancy graduation, baby shower or wedding invitations. However, ink on linen paper does not dry immediately, so anything printed on this paper should be air-dried before handling.

References

• Types of Paper for Print Projects
• Office Guide: Copy Paper