Paper Types
Paper Types & How to Choose
Paper is 60% of how a printed product feels. Here are the stocks we print on every day, what each is best at, and the weights we recommend. Can't decide? Our free paper sample book puts all of them in your hands.
01 Coated Papers
Art Paper / Coated Two Side (C2S)
Smooth, glossy-printable both sides. The default for photo-rich children's books, brochures and card faces where vibrant color matters.
105–157 gsm inner · 250–350 gsm covers & cards
C1S (Coated One Side)
Glossy printable front, uncoated glueable/writable back. The standard for board book pages (mounted to board), rigid boxes and jigsaw puzzle sheets.
250–350 gsm typical
02 Uncoated Papers
Offset Paper
Natural, non-glossy surface that's easy to write on. The choice for workbooks, journals, planners and novel interiors.
70–120 gsm
Kraft Paper
Brown, sturdy, rustic look. Popular for eco-leaning packaging, notebook covers and gift bags.
120–300 gsm
03 Boards
Greyboard / Chipboard
The rigid core inside hardcovers, board books and box walls.
1–3 mm thickness
Mounted C1S Card
Two sheets of 350 gsm C1S mounted together — the classic board book page: stiff, durable, rounded-corner friendly.
≈1 mm mounted
04 Specialty
Textured & Colored Stocks
Linen, felt, metallic and dyed stocks for premium covers, wedding stationery and deluxe editions. Availability varies — ask for current swatches.
Varies
Bible Paper / Thin Stock
Ultra-thin opaque paper for very high page counts in compact volumes.
28–45 gsm
Key takeaways
- ✓
Coated paper for vibrant color; uncoated for anything that gets written on.
- ✓
Board books are C1S mounted on greyboard — durability is the spec.
- ✓
Card decks live on 280–350 gsm blue-core stock.
Cheat Sheet
Quick paper picker.
| Your product | Paper | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Board book | C1S mounted on greyboard | 350 gsm × 2 mounted |
| Hardcover book inner pages | Coated art / offset | 128–157 / 80–120 gsm |
| Card decks & playing cards | Blue-core card | 280–350 gsm |
| Game board | C1S + laminate, mounted | 350 gsm + board |
| Gift box | Greyboard + C1S wrap | 1–3 mm board |
| Greeting cards | Textured / C1S stock | 300–350 gsm |
| Notebook covers | Coated or PU-wrapped board | 2 mm board or 250 gsm |
What paper is best for children's board books?
C1S mounted on greyboard (1–2 mm thick) with rounded corners and non-toxic inks — durable enough for toddlers and safe for under-3s.
Which paper weight should I choose for card decks?
280–350 gsm blue-core stock with an air-cushion finish. It shuffles smoothly and feels premium in hand.
Can I get paper samples before ordering?
Yes — our paper sample book is free and includes every stock, weight and finish we offer, so you can decide in your hands.
Related guides
Ready when you are
Still Can't Decide? Hold Them.
Order the free paper sample book — every stock and finish, in your hands within days.
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