Bond Paper Definition
Choosing the right type of paper for a business or office setting is more important than it sounds. The wide variety of texture, stiffness and durability across different types of paper can make it difficult to make the right choice. In a professional environment, bond paper is a wise choice; it's resiliency, weight and smooth, clean finish make it a high-quality paper that is suitable for business needs.
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History
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Bond paper earned its name from its original purpose. It was once used for documents like government bonds and share certificates, though that is not necessarily the case anymore. Bond paper is now utilized in office settings because of its clean, fuzz-free finish. It is one of the most popular types of paper.
Old-Fashioned Paper
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Bond paper's characteristic texture comes from the way it is manufactured. It was once manufactured using a combination of eucalyptus and rag fiber pulp, which made it resistant to tears. Though this bond paper was tougher than it is today, it also sported a rougher finish.
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Modern Bond Paper
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Manufactured almost exclusively from eucalyptus pulp, modern bond paper is known for being smooth and clean, making it a popular choice not only in office settings, but also for graphic designers and other artists. Its smooth finish makes it resistant to smudges and imperfections.
Paper Weight
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Paper of any type is classified by a weight. This weight is determined by how much a ream of 500 uncut sheets of paper weighs. Bond paper, for example, is available in weights from 13 to 24 pounds. This means that a ream of 500 uncut sheets of bond paper weighs that much. These oversized sheets are then cut into fourths before being sold. For example, a 500-sheet ream of cut bond paper, though labeled as "20-pound" bond paper, actually weighs about five pounds. Bond paper's weight is a defining characteristic, as it is durable and heavy, though not quite as heavy or stiff as card stock.
Uses
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Though it was once relegated mostly to government use, bond paper is now a popular choice among all manner of professionals. It is used by teachers, students, artists and working professionals, and despite its weight, it can be used in laser printers and other types of electronic printing devices.
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References
- Photo Credit paper feed image by Glenn Jenkinson from Fotolia.com