At Friesens, we go through a significant amount of paper…on average about 11,000 Tonnes per year, which is more than the weight of the Eiffel Tower! As a leading book printer in Canada, we understand that choosing the right book paper for printing is crucial for creating stunning and high-quality books.
When it comes to printing your book, the type of paper you select can greatly impact the visual appeal, weight, feel, and bulkiness of your book. Here are some key characteristics to consider:
COMMON TYPES OF PAPER
- Bond, book, writing, index, Bristol, and cover paper are standard types. For books, we typically use “book paper,” which is different from other printed products.
COATED VERSUS UNCOATED PAPER
- Coated paper is ideal for books with images, like art books or coffee table books, offering sharper and more visually appealing results.
- Uncoated paper is often used for text-heavy books and comes in white or natural shades. It’s generally less expensive than coated paper. Books can also feature a combination of both.
PAPER FINISHES
- Gloss coated paper makes colorful images pop.
- Matte or silk finishes are also available for coated paper.
- Uncoated paper finishes include Smooth, Antique, Eggshell, Machine Finish, or Vellum.
PAPER WEIGHTS
- The weight of paper is determined by the weight of 500 sheets in its uncut state, measured in pounds or Grams per Square Meter (GSM). At Friesens, we use paper weights ranging from 50lb to 100lb.
OPACITY
- Opacity measures how much printed matter is visible from the other side of a sheet. Higher opacity means less see-through, making it easier to read the print without interference.
BRIGHTNESS
- Brightness is measured on a scale of 0 to 100, indicating how much blue light is reflected from the paper’s surface. Higher numbers mean brighter paper.
ECO-FRIENDLY OPTIONS
- Book paper sustainability is important. Look for papers with high Post-Consumer Waste (PCW) content and forest certification. As an FSC chain of custody certificate holder, Friesens offers a wide range of FSC Certified papers.
In the world of books, the paper you choose is a big deal. It’s not just about what feels nice; it’s about telling your best story. The right cover paper for books and interior paper can make your book stand out. It isn’t just a background player; it’s a crucial part of the story being told.
Remember, whether you’re playing rock paper scissors or selecting paper for your next book project, always make sure to choose wisely!
