Paper. Know the difference?

Copier paper is a type of paper specifically designed for use in photocopiers and printers. It is typically lightweight, smooth, and treated to prevent jams and ensure high-quality printouts. Available in various sizes and weights, it is an essential supply for offices and homes alike.

Paper Weight Measured in grams per square meter (GSM), copier paper is available in a range of weights. The higher the GSM, the thicker and sturdier the paper. For example, your everyday copier paper is usually around 80 GSM, while high-quality print and marketing materials often use 90/100 GSM, thicker stuff like cardstock can be 200 GSM or more.

Paper Size Paper comes in various sizes, with A4 and A3 being the most common. A4 is the standard size for most documents, measuring 210 x 297 mm, while A3 is larger at 297 x 420 mm, often used for posters and presentations. There are also other sizes like A5, which is half the size of A4, and A2, which is twice the size of A3, catering to different needs and uses.

Paper Finish Paper finish refers to the surface texture of the paper, which can affect the look and feel of printed materials. There are three main types:

• Matte: This finish is non-glossy and smooth, reducing glare and making it easy to read. It's great for text-heavy documents and professional reports. Matte is the most common finish on budget copier paper.
• Gloss: This finish is shiny and reflective, enhancing colors and images. It's perfect for photos, brochures, and marketing materials.
• Satin/Silk: This finish offers a middle ground between matte and glossy, providing a slight sheen without being too reflective. It's ideal for high-quality prints where both text and images are important.

Eco paper also known as environmentally friendly paper, is designed to have a lower impact on the environment. It is typically made from recycled materials or sustainable sources, such as responsibly managed forests. Eco paper often uses less water and energy in its production and may be processed without harmful chemicals.

Coloured paper is available in a variety of hues and is used to add a splash of color to your projects. It's great for crafts, presentations, flyers, and any other creative endeavors. You can find it in different weights and finishes, just like regular paper, making it versatile for both professional and personal use.

Paper rolls are large rolls of paper used in various applications, from printing and packaging to art and crafts. They come in different widths, lengths, and types, such as thermal paper for receipts, butcher paper for wrapping, and kraft paper for packaging. They are also commonly used for large format printing tasks like computer-aided design (CAD), engineering drawings, and mono or color line work. The versatility of paper rolls makes them suitable for a wide range of professional and creative projects.

Photo paper is specially designed for printing high-quality photographs. It has a smooth, glossy, or semi-gloss finish that enhances color vibrancy and detail. This type of paper is thicker and more durable than regular paper, ensuring your photos look professional and last longer. Photo paper is available in various sizes and finishes to suit different printing needs, from standard 4x6 prints to larger formats for framing.