Quick answer
Choose paper by how the piece will be used. Silk is a versatile all-rounder, gloss makes photography pop, and uncoated paper feels natural and is easy to write on. Paper weight (gsm) controls how substantial it feels.
Coated vs uncoated papers
| Finish | Look and feel | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Silk | Smooth with a subtle sheen | Brochures, flyers, most marketing |
| Gloss | Shiny, vivid colour | Photography-heavy flyers and posters |
| Uncoated | Natural, slightly textured | Stationery, writable cards, premium feel |
Typical paper weights by product
| Product | Commonly used weights |
|---|---|
| Letterheads | 100–120gsm |
| Flyers | 130–170gsm |
| Brochure text pages | 130–170gsm |
| Brochure covers | 250–350gsm |
| Postcards | 300–400gsm |
| Business cards | 350–450gsm+ |
Recycled and certified papers
Recycled and FSC®-certified papers are widely available. If this matters to you, mention it in your enquiry and we'll include suitable options where available.
This guide gives general information about commercial printing. Specifications and availability vary between production partners; we'll confirm the details for your project in your quotation. Request a quote.
