Paper Stocks & Weights (Without the Confusion)

If you’ve ever ordered printing and thought “what does 100lb even mean?” — you’re not alone.

Paper comes in a huge range of thicknesses, textures, and finishes. The tricky part? The naming system isn’t exactly intuitive. Here’s a simple breakdown so you can actually make the right choice.

What “Paper Weight” Actually Means

In the U.S., paper weight (called basis weight) is measured by weighing a standard stack of paper—called a ream—before it’s cut down to size.

Here’s the catch:

👉 That “standard size” is different depending on the type of paper.

So not all “100lb paper” is the same.

Why Paper Types Matter

Different categories of paper use different base sheet sizes:

Because of this:

• 100lb Text ≠ 100lb Cover
• They’re measured using different sheet sizes

👉 Result:

Cover stock is thicker and stiffer than text stock—even at the same weight.

Quick Real-World Examples

• 80lb Text → thinner, like a premium flyer or brochure
• 100lb Text → heavier brochure or booklet page
• 100lb Cover → business cards, postcards, sturdy prints

If you remember one thing:

👉 “Text bends. Cover holds its shape.”

Coated vs. Uncoated (This Affects How It Looks)

Paper doesn’t just vary in thickness—it also changes how your print looks.

Coated Paper

• Smooth surface
• Ink sits on top
• Sharper detail, brighter color
• Best for photos and high-color designs

Uncoated Paper

• Slightly textured
• Ink absorbs into the sheet
• Softer, more natural look
• Great for writing, forms, or a more “organic” feel

That’s why color books (like Pantone guides) have separate versions—

👉 the same color prints differently depending on the paper.

Coating Abbreviations You’ll See

• Uncoated – no coating on either side
• C1S – coated on one side (great for postcards)
• C2S – coated on both sides

Our Most Popular Paper Stocks

Here’s a quick lineup of what we run most often, from thickest to lightest:

Heavy & Rigid

• 32PT Uncoated Triple Layer
• 32PT Uncoated
• 18PT Board (C1S)
• 16PT Board (C2S)
• 14PT Board (C2S)

Midweight / Standard Print

• 14PT Uncoated Cover
• 100lb Gloss Cover
• 100lb Gloss Text
• 100lb Dull Text

Lightweight / Everyday Use

• 80lb Gloss Text
• 70lb Premium Opaque
• 70lb Linen Text
• 20lb Text (standard copy paper)

Specialty Stocks (When You Want Something Different)

• 18PT Kraft (natural, recycled look)
• 14PT Pearl Metallic (subtle shimmer)
• 14PT Natural (warm tone)
• 100lb Linen Cover (textured, upscale feel)

The Bottom Line

If you’re unsure what to pick:

• Flyers / brochures? → Text
• Business cards / postcards? → Cover
• Want vibrant color? → Coated
• Want a natural feel? → Uncoated

Or just ask—we’ll point you to the right stock based on what you’re printing.