Using the right inkjet printer paper can affect the quality of the finished product as well as how and where it can be used. Some of the primary features you need to consider when choosing printer paper include:
- Weight— This corresponds to the thickness and stiffness of the paper. The heavier the weight, the thicker and stiffer it will be.
- Finish and Shininess— Paper can be either coated or uncoated. Uncoated paper is non-reflective, which is the ideal choice for printer paper. Coated paper will have either a dull/matte or gloss finish. Dull/matte paper is smoother and more refined than uncoated paper, but it’s not as shiny as gloss paper.
You don’t just want to think about how you want the piece to look. You also need to think about how you’re going to use it, who is going to be handling it, and whether it will be mailed (because the weight of the paper can affect the cost of postage). You also need to think about whether it will be exposed to water, chemicals, or extreme temperatures.