Different Printing Papers: Uncoated, Gloss and High Gloss UV

Imagine you have a special event or marketing campaign coming up - all you have to do is order some professional printing. Just when you think you’re all set to make an order, it is time to choose among our trading card print. That shouldn’t be too hard to pick, right? Well, we at 4OVER4.COM we carry 50+ paper types that you could choose from. Let’s take a look at the options first, and you can answer that question later.

Uncoated Paper

Redundant as it may sound, uncoated paper… has no coating. What this means, is that paper is porous and absorbs more ink. Therefore, images can lose a bit of their sharpness, at least in comparison to coated paper. With that in mind, it works very well for projects with less processed requirements, because it provides an organic feel. Lack of coating does not mean lower quality. 

There are several colored and textured options for uncoated printing papers. This choice is well suited for applications where the paper will be written on, like letterheads, or for any projects where a natural look is desired. Booklets like the one shown below, have no coating. 

Coated Paper

The coating process fills the base paper pores, which alters its printing qualities and ink absorption levels. As a result, coated printing paper feels smoother and looks shinier. Coated paper printing substances include China Clay, Calcium Carbonate, Kaolinite, Pigment, Adhesive, and Bentonite.

It is classified as light, medium, or high coated. And art paper, which is the highest in quality and commonly used in advertising projects. This paper can be matte or glossy and produces outstanding color results. It’s typically used for brochures, catalogs, menus, among others. Here’s an example: 

Gloss/High Gloss UV Paper

Gloss/High Gloss UV coating consists of applying a varnish to standard printing product and then sealing it with UV light. As a result, the colors are enhanced and the product looks glossy like gloss laminated cards. Additionally, it makes the gloss paper more resistant to any external element which may damage the ink or quality. After applying the gloss UV coating, it would be hard to write on the paper or edit it in any way, so it is suitable for products that will not require further alterations.

You can also choose to coat the paper on one side only, so it is possible to write customer details or any additional information on the back (like a postcard). It is used in a wide range of applications from business cards to catalogs and postcards and everywhere in between. Using glossy papers and gloss coatings can really make an amazing gloss Laminated business card seem even more beautiful than the regular. 

Additionally, the gloss UV coating enhances the overall look and feel of the product, making it more visually appealing and professional. It also provides a layer of protection, making the product more durable and long-lasting.

Overall, gloss/high gloss UV paper is a great option for businesses looking to make a lasting impression with their printed materials. Whether it's business cards, brochures, or flyers, gloss UV coating can take your design to the next level and make your brand stand out. 

Paper Thickness

Regardless of the coating process, the paper has been through, its thickness will determine how rigid and resistant it will be. While the average cardstock ranges from 9-point to 14-point, specialty papers like the ultra thick prestige collectioncan go as high as 80-point. And even then, you can choose to apply UV coating or not. Our advice is that you tell your professional printer exactly what you are after. An expert will be able to tell you which option is the most suitable for your project, so you don’t get overwhelmed by the multiple possibilities. Remember that the final purpose of your print product will be the determining factor as to what kind of material you should go for. 

Know the Details of your Project to Choose The Right Paper 

Ask yourself the following questions:

• What is the objective of your project? Spread information? Branding? Or, Make an announcement?
• What’s the desired look? Is full-color printing essential for your project?
• How your piece will be distributed?
• What’s your budget?

Answer yourself the questions above, set up your priorities and ask our printing expert representatives if you aren’t sure what’s the best choice for you.  

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between coated and uncoated paper?

A: Coated paper has a layer of coating applied, making it smooth and less absorbent than uncoated paper. This results in better image reproduction and sharper print quality.

Q: How does the type of paper affect the printing quality?

A: The type of paper, such as glossy coated, matte coated, or high gloss UV, impacts how ink adheres to the surface and how colors appear. Different papers are suitable for different printing projects.

Q: What is heavyweight coated paper and when is it used?

A: Heavyweight coated paper is thick and has a glossy finish. It is often used for printing materials like brochures, business cards, menus, and calendars to give them a premium look and feel.

Q: What is the significance of Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification in printing papers?

A: FSC certification ensures that the paper used is sourced from responsibly managed forests, promoting sustainable practices in the paper industry.

Q: When should I choose coated paper over uncoated paper for my print project?

A: Coated paper is generally preferred for projects requiring high-quality images, such as flyers, invitations, and marketing materials, as it provides better color reproduction and sharpness.

Q: What are the main differences between glossy and matte coated papers?

A: Glossy coated paper has a shiny finish that enhances colors and provides sharp detail, while matte coated paper has a smooth, non-reflective surface that adds a more elegant look to prints.

Q: What are the benefits of using high gloss UV paper in printing?

A: High gloss UV paper offers a super shiny finish that not only enhances colors but also provides extra protection against wear and tear, making it ideal for products like business cards and marketing materials that need to stand out.