Choosing the right paper

The right paper can make all the difference to your final print. We go through some of the things to consider when choosing your paper.

1. Size

While fairly obvious, size can have a huge impact on many elements of your print. From cost to marketability, you’ll want to consider what works best for you. A3 is typically the most popular size, its compact enough to work on gallery and living room walls, whilst still being large enough to make a statement.

2. Weight

Paper weight is measured in gsm, or ‘grams per square metre’. The higher the number, the thicker the paper. Household printed paper is typically 80-100gsm. Our most used paper weight is 270-300gsm. This weight can hold a lot of ink without crumpling or warping. The design above by Tom J Newell covers the paper entirely with ink but still the paper remains faultless.

The thickness of the paper can also affect how your prints are transported to your final customer. For example, if you are shipping individual prints out in cardboard tubes, a lower weight paper will roll up more effectively than a heavy weight.

3. Texture

Most paper stock we supply is available in a Smooth version, or a Textured version. What you choose may depend on your design. An artwork with a lot of fine detail (above right) may suit a smooth surface, whilst a piece featuring organic, heavy shapes (above left) may suit a textured surface better. There is no right or wrong, we can assist you in selecting the perfect choice.

4. Colour

White, off white, natural, kraft or coloured. There is no limit to the colours you can print on. If you have trouble deciding why not split your print run over multiple colour ways?

5. Other Paper Surfaces.

If it’s flat, we can print it! In the past we have screen printed on to wooden shop signs, packaging, glass and record sleeves (above). If you have something non-standard or unusual you’d like to print on to, get in touch with us to chat.