There are many different types of paper used in professional printing, and each one can dramatically affect how your project looks and feels. Whether you are designing invitations, greeting cards, fine art prints, or other paper products, the paper you choose matters.

Color, weight, and texture all influence the final presentation of your printed piece. This article walks through the key characteristics of paper and how to choose the best option for your print project. You can request a free sample pack of our curated paper samples here. 

Paper Weight

Paper weight refers to the thickness and sturdiness of the paper you choose for your project. Heavier papers create a more substantial feel, while lighter papers are more flexible and often used for inserts, notepads, or interior pages.

In professional printing, paper is typically categorized as text weight or cover weight. Text weight papers are thinner and more flexible, while cover weight papers are thicker and more durable.

Industry standards generally consider 100# cover or heavier to be a durable stock suitable for products like invitations, holiday cards, wedding stationery, and art prints. 

Paper Texture

Paper texture refers to the surface feel of the paper. Some papers are smooth and crisp, while others have a more noticeable texture that adds depth and character to a printed piece. Texture influences both the visual style and tactile experience of your design. Subtle textures can add softness and warmth, while smoother papers often produce sharper printed detail.

Here are a few common paper textures used in stationery printing:

Smooth
Smooth or semi-smooth papers have an even surface with very little texture, allowing fine details and crisp typography to print clearly. They are commonly used for modern designs, photo cards, and artwork with detailed line work.

Eggshell
Eggshell paper has a light, subtle texture that adds dimension without overpowering the design. It offers a balance between smooth printing and a soft tactile feel, making it a versatile option and a popular choice for wedding stationery.

Felt
Often compared to watercolor paper, felt papers have a noticeable woven texture that adds visual depth and a rich tactile feel. They are often used for traditional designs, art prints, and watercolor-style artwork.

Cotton
Cotton papers are known for their soft, luxurious feel and natural texture. Because cotton fibers are longer and softer than wood pulp fibers, the paper has a plush, premium quality. Cotton paper is also more porous, allowing ink to absorb slightly into the fibers. This creates a softer, more subtle print appearance and makes cotton an excellent choice for wedding stationers creating custom suites.

Paper Color

Paper color influences the overall tone of the finished piece. While many stationery projects are printed on white paper, the tone or brightness of the paper can affect how colors appear once printed.

White paper can range from bright or ultra-white, which produces higher contrast and more vibrant color, to softer natural tones with subtle yellow undertones that create a warmer, more muted look. Choose your paper color based on the style of the design and the feeling you want the finished piece to convey. 

In addition to white papers, PrintsWell also offers a selection of color paper options. Because darker papers do not provide enough contrast for standard color printing, these premium stocks are printed using white ink, creating a bold, high-contrast, luxury look.

Common Paper Choices for Stationery Projects

While the best paper choice depends on the design and desired feel of the finished piece, the papers below are among the most commonly used for stationery print projects.

For a full comparison of available paper options, see our full Paper Reference Guide. If you're unsure which paper works best for your designs, our low minimums make it easy to place a sample or proof order and test multiple papers before committing to a larger print run.