The types and differences of paper
Detailed Guide to Paper Types and Differences
Of course! The differences between types of paper are mainly reflected in their raw materials, manufacturing process, weight, usage, and texture. Choosing the right paper is crucial for writing, printing, packaging, or creative work.
Below, I will explain the differences in detail from several perspectives:
1. Classification by Primary Use (The Most Common Method)
1.1 Cultural & Office Paper (Writing/Printing)
This is the type of paper we encounter most in daily life.
Copy Paper:
Characteristics: Smooth surface, good ink absorption, less prone to jamming. The most commonly used paper for office printing and photocopying.
Key Parameter: Basis Weight (Grammage) is key. Common weights are 70 g/m² and 80 g/m². Higher weight means thicker, sturdier paper that is less likely to show through.
Common Brands: Asia Symbol, Double A, etc.
Coated Paper (Art Paper):
Characteristics: The surface is treated with a coating and highly polished, making it very smooth and glossy. It reproduces printed colors with extremely high fidelity.
Uses: Primarily used for high-quality picture books, magazine covers, promotional flyers, and product catalogs.
Classifications: Divided into Glossy Coated and Matte Coated paper based on gloss level. Matte paper is softer and causes less glare when reading.
Woodfree Paper/Offset Paper:
Characteristics: The surface is not as smooth as coated paper; it’s slightly rough and often has a yellowish (natural) tint. It resists glare, making it easier on the eyes for long reading sessions.
Uses: Commonly used for book pages, notebooks, letterheads, and notepads.
Newsprint:
Characteristics: Made primarily from mechanical wood pulp. The paper is soft, porous, and has strong ink absorption, but it yellows and becomes brittle easily.
Uses: Mainly for newspapers and time-sensitive publications.
1.2 Packaging Paper
This category emphasizes strength and durability.
Kraft Paper:
Characteristics: High strength, good toughness, brownish in color (also available in bleached white).
Uses: File folders, envelopes, shopping bags, and packaging.
White Cardboard:
Characteristics: Stiff, thick, and sturdy with a smooth surface and high whiteness.
Uses: High-end product packaging boxes, business cards, invitations, and tags.
Corrugated Paper:
Characteristics: Made by gluing a liner sheet to a fluted corrugated medium. Its special structure makes it lightweight yet strong, with excellent cushioning properties.
Uses: Express delivery boxes, product shipping packaging.
1.3 Art & Specialty Paper
This category focuses more on texture, feel, and longevity.
Xuan Paper (Rice Paper):
Characteristics: A traditional Chinese handmade paper made from sandalwood bark and rice straw. It is soft, resilient, has excellent ink absorption properties, is moth-resistant, and has an extremely long lifespan (known as “the paper that lasts a thousand years”).
Classifications: Based on absorbency: Sheng Xuan (highly absorbent, for freehand brushwork), Shu Xuan (treated with alum, non-bleeding, for detailed brushwork), and Half-sized Xuan.
Watercolor Paper:
Characteristics: High absorbency and weight (typically 180 g/m² and above), resistant to warping and buckling when wet. It has a pronounced surface texture.
Classifications: By texture: Rough, Cold Press (medium), Hot Press (smooth).
Sketch Paper:
Characteristics: The surface has a certain roughness, making it easy for pencil and charcoal to adhere. The paper is relatively thick and can withstand repeated erasing.
Weight: Common weights are 120 g/m², 150 g/m², 180 g/m², etc.
Acid-Free Paper:
Characteristics: Has a neutral or alkaline pH, containing no acidic substances. It can be stored for long periods without yellowing or becoming brittle.
Uses: Archival preservation, important documents, art collection.
2. Analysis of Core Parameters
Understanding these parameters will help you choose paper better:
Basis Weight (Grammage):
Refers to the weight per square meter of paper (g/m² or gsm).
The lower the weight, the thinner the paper; the higher the weight, the thicker the paper.
Example: 80 g/m² copy paper is sturdier than 70 g/m²; 300 g/m² watercolor paper can stand up like cardstock.
Color & Brightness:
Color: Options include High White, Natural White (yellowish), Ivory (more yellow). Natural White and Ivory are easier on the eyes.
Brightness: Refers to the paper’s ability to reflect light. A higher percentage makes the paper appear “brighter” and more glaring. Office paper is typically above 90%.
Smoothness/Texture:
Smooth: e.g., Coated Paper, suitable for detailed color printing.
Rough/Textured: e.g., Watercolor Paper, Sketch Paper, used to create special artistic effects.
Opacity:
Refers to the degree to which paper is opaque. Low opacity means text from the other side is easily visible (show-through).
3. Quick Selection Guide
Your Need Recommended Paper Type Key Factors to Consider
Everyday Printing/Copying Copy Paper Weight (Choose 80 g/m²), Opacity, Smoothness
Important Reports/Resumes High-Quality Copy Paper or Matte Coated Paper Whiteness, Stiffness, Feel
Reading Books/Notebooks Woodfree/Offset Paper Color (Choose Natural White for eye comfort), Opacity
Making Brochures/Catalogs Coated Paper (Glossy/Matte) Color Reproduction, Gloss Level
Packaging Boxes/Shopping Bags White Cardboard, Kraft Paper Thickness, Stiffness, Durability
Calligraphy/Ink Painting Xuan Paper Absorbency (Sheng/Shu Xuan), Ink Rendering
Watercolor Painting Watercolor Paper Weight (Higher is better), Texture, Cotton/Wood Pulp
Sketching Sketch Paper Weight, Texture (for pencil grip)
Archiving Important Documents Acid-Free Paper Acidity (Ensure it’s neutral)
