Gloss coated
A smooth, reflective coating that makes photographs and saturated colours feel vivid. It can show fingerprints and glare more easily than matte stocks.
Often used for: Flyers, postcards, photo-rich marketing pieces
Print resource
Paper Type Guide
The finish beneath your design changes how a printed piece looks, feels and performs. Use this guide to start the right production conversation.
Matte coated
A smooth, low-glare coating with a restrained finish. It supports crisp text and rich colour while feeling more subtle than gloss.
Often used for: Brochures, presentation pieces, premium marketing
Silk or satin
A balanced coated finish between gloss and matte. It offers good colour reproduction with less reflection and a polished feel.
Often used for: Catalogues, folders, product sheets
Uncoated
An absorbent, natural-feeling paper that is easy to write on. Ink can appear softer than on coated stocks because it absorbs differently.
Often used for: Letterhead, note cards, invitations, forms
Textured or specialty
Stocks with an intentionally tactile surface, metallic effect or distinctive finish. They can elevate a design but may change fine-detail and colour appearance.
Often used for: Event stationery, packaging, premium cards
How paper affects print color
Coated stocks tend to hold ink closer to the surface, which can make colour feel more saturated. Uncoated stocks absorb more ink, often producing a softer, warmer appearance. Lighting, monitor settings, materials and finishing also affect how you perceive the final piece.
For colour-critical work, discuss proofs and production expectations before approval. No digital screen can promise an exact physical print result.
Choose with your project in mind
- Writing surface: Uncoated stocks are usually easier to write on.
- Photographs: Gloss, silk and matte coated stocks can better preserve image saturation.
- Premium feel: Heavier or specialty paper can give a more tactile impression.
- Finishing: Lamination, foil, embossing and die cutting can affect the recommended stock.