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Choosing the right paper for your print job can be confusing because of different
sizes and weights of paper. We stock a variety of the most common types of
paper that work best in our equipment. Ask us for recommendations on paper
to optimize the quality of your printing job while saving costs and minimizing
waste.
Paper comes in varying weights and thickness. Each type of paper has one basic
sheet size that is used to figure out its basis weight. Basis weight is the
weight of a ream of paper (500 sheets) in a grade's most standard size.
Because of this standard, comparing basis weights for any two kinds of paper can
be difficult. In the United States, basis weight is expressed in pounds. When written
down for print specifications, the # symbol stands for pounds. Sometimes paper
with the same basis weight feels and looks completely different. An 80# uncoated
cover-weight paper works well for business cards, but an 80# gloss cover weight
paper may seem to thin and flimsy.
The same grade of paper can come in different weights. Common weights for
bond, for example, are 20# and 24#. Standard "copy" paper is 20#. We
use the heavier 60# weight as our standard because it minimizes show-through on two
sided prints.
If preparing a job for mailing, consider the weight of the finished piece.
Heavier or coated papers will add to your cost of mailing. We can often provide
a mock-up, which you may want to have weighed at the post office before ordering the job.
Don't forget to check that you're meeting size, bar code and other postal regulations
as well.
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