A Complete Guide to Choosing the Right Paper for Your Brochures, Catalogs, and Holiday Cards

Picking the right paper material and design is essential when getting your cards or brochures printed both professionally and at home. Aside from aesthetics, other factors such as affordability, weight, and storage come into play. That is why it would be best to get your cards, photo books, as well as calendars. printed by a printing company, particularly for holiday cards. If you are one of those people who has never sent cards or calendars before, then you should start by sending personalized Christmas photo cards this year to friends and family.

Typically, printing companies will have different design patterns, frame ideas as well as materials which you can choose from when making an order. This can feel overwhelming for a newbie; that is why it’s always good to know which paper to use for each occasion.

Read on to learn how you can pick the right paper for your printed items.

Business cards

If you have ever received business cards, then the chances are that some caught your eye, and even after a few months, you can quickly pinpoint the owner from a stack of cards lying inside your drawer. Here are some useful tips to help you choose the right paper for your business card.

• Uncoated or dull stock is best for this type of card. An uncoated stock allows you to write additional information on the card without getting smudged.
• If you’re thinking of using metallic paper sheets, you should note that metallic ink does not go well with dull paper stock
• Go for soft coatings with a velvety touch to ensure all writings and graphics are visible. You may also opt for an aqueous coating to protect your business cards from scratches when stored in wallets or pockets

Brochures

• Using plastic paper is an excellent option to ensure that these products are waterproof
• It would help if you went for more substantial paper material that can withstand constant folds. If you plan on designing a folded brochure, then the 100# cover
• Also, it would be best if you used thick paper material if you are planning on using metallic foils as well as embossing. However, if you are printing many brochures, it’s okay to choose thin paper to save on costs

Postcards

Typically, people send postcards via mail. Here are some things to consider when choosing the right paper 

• Make sure they meet the US regulations and requirements regarding their size and material
• Choosing anything beyond 6″ x 11″ will result in higher postage charges
• Choose one that has a UV coating to protect it from scratches during transport

Catalogs and Calendars

• Choose a thicker paper stock for the cover and a thin one for the other pages to minimize on the cost
• Pick similar coating stocks for all pages on the catalog for a crisper look
• Consider an uncoated finishing for products and items list to allow users to mark a specific thing. Use the glossy coating for pages with photos and art

Greetings, Events and Holiday cards

• Consider using an uncoated paper stock for event cards that require an RSVP response
• Go for the dull stock to prevent smudges and for excellent print quality
• Using textured paper such as parchment and linen creates a luxurious and classy feel to your cards

Now that you know which paper is suitable for each occasion, making your order will become much more comfortable. If you are looking for affordable printing companies in the US, you should look up Mixbook, which has a variety of designs and templates.