Give any document impact: how to pick the best printer paper

For snazzy results you can be proud of, the right paper can give your document impact. Here's how to pick the best printer paper to help you make a positive impression.

Consider the various types of paper that are available:

Inkjet paper: Inkjet paper works with inkjet printers and is designed to absorb the perfect amount of ink to achieve crisp lines so your text and images stand out.

• It is available in different types, such as matte, glossy and card stock.

Laser paper: Laser paper is heat resistant and made to work with laser printers.

• Laser printers use heat to adhere toner to paper, and paper with coatings can damage them.

Matte paper: Matte or photocopy paper varies in quality, brightness and thickness.

• Its style is classic and versatile, making for a great choice in most casual and professional situations.

Glossy paper and photo paper: Glossy paper is great for colourful printing to make your artistic projects stand out.

• Photo paper is glossy and specifically made to be properly sized for photos.

Bright white paper: This vibrant paper is built to offer two-sided printing without bleeding through to the other side.

• Double-sided printing will help you save money and paper while decreasing harm on the environment.

Consider these printing paper features:

Quick drying: Matte paper features fast ink drying for quick and convenient use.

Recycled paper: Some papers are made from recycled materials. Look for paper certified by the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC).

Protective coatings: Special coatings can make your paper stronger and more vibrant, which is especially useful for outdoor promotional flyers.

Coloured paper: Printing paper sometimes comes in different colours so your documents will stand out.

Consider the best paper qualities for your needs:

Rough vs. smooth: Choice in smoothness is often determined by what type of printer you own. Inkjet papers tend to be rougher than laser papers.

Weight and thickness: Heavier weighted (or thicker) paper is more durable and can better stand up to handling.

Opacity: Thinner paper may show text through the back of the page and is not ideal for double-sided printing. Opaque papers, on the other hand, are heavier and work better for double-sided printing.

Paper size: Printer paper is available in a range of different sizes. Most printers can adjust to accommodate standard paper sizes, such as letter size paper, legal size paper, A4 and A5 paper.

When you're investing time and money into a document, flyer or brochure, it pays to use quality paper. Make the most of your hard work by presenting your finished product the right way, on the right paper.