• Common paper grades and descriptions

Paper may be defined in terms of its use. Each grade serves a purpose, usually suggested by its grade name. Some of the most common classifications of printing papers are bond, coated, text, cover, book, offset, index, label, tag, newsprint, and writing.

Bond papers are commonly used for letters, copying, and business forms. 8.5" X 11" are the most common size.

Coated papers are used when high printing quality is desired because of its greater surface smoothness and uniform ink receptivity. There are many kinds: cast coated, gloss coated, dull coated, machine coated, coated one (C1S) and two (C2S) sides, etc.

Text papers are noted for their interesting textures and attractive colors. They are frequently use for announcements, booklets, and brochures. Most text papers are treated with a sizing to make them more resistant to water penetration and easier to print by offset lithography.

Book papers are used for trade and textbooks as well as general printing. They are less expensive than text papers, and are made in antique or smooth finishes. Books paper have a wider range of weights and bulk than text papers so it is possible to secure almost any desired bulking.

Offset papers are similar to the coated and uncoated book paper used for letterpress printing except that sizing is added to resist the slight moisture present in offset printing, and the surface is treated to resist picking.

Cover papers complement coated and text papers in heavier weights and matching colors for use as covers on booklets. Business cards are another very common use for cover papers. Many special surface textures are available, with finishes ranging from antique to smooth. Special characteristics of cover papers include dimensional stability, durability, uniform printing surface, good scoring, folding, embossing, and die-cutting qualities.

Index papers have two outstanding characteristics - stiffness and receptivity to printing ink. commonly used whenever an inexpensive stiff paper is required. It is available in both smooth and vellum finish.

Tag is a utility sheet ranging from 100 to 250 pounds for manufacturing tags. Tag stock has good bending or folding qualities, suitable bursting and tensile strength, good tearing and water resistance and a surface adaptable to printing, stamping, or writing.

Bristol is one of the board grades, with a softer surface than index or tag, making it ideal for high-speed folding, embossing or stamping. It is an economical substitute for cotton fiber stocks. It is very receptive to ink and has good snap and resilience.

Newsprint is used in printing newspapers. It is most commonly made with groundwood pulp combined with some chemical pulp.

Lightweight papers such as manifold, onionskin and Bible paper are specialty grades that have been produced for years. Recently, increasing mailing costs have fostered the development and use of lighter weight newsprint and magazine papers.

Writing paper usually refers to higher grade bond commonly used for letterhead paper. It will most often be made with a percent of cotton fiber and a watermark will be visible when it is held up to the light.

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