Confused about paper after browsing the internet for holiday cards?

Eco, heavy, smooth, gloss, linen, metallic.... oh, my!

Here are a few quick tips: 

But first: We ship Free Samples

1. Almost all the paper on the market contains a percentage of recycled fiber, 30-50%.

2. Every brand of paper weighs and prints differently.

So, 100# Cover from Company A may actually be thicker than 120# Cover from Company B, depending on the finish, and  is it softer or harder paper. Ok, don't get too hung up here, but in general 100# Cover is too light for me. 

What is more important is the Point, that is the actual thickness of the paper regardless of the weight mentioned. The USPS uses points to make sure everyone meets the same criteria when mailing. It is the only way to judge papers from different paper companies. 

For reference: direct mail postcards must be  a 9  pt. thickness. Most are printed on 10 pt. 

3.  Request Samples and see for yourself.

Start early and request samples from different companies. If that is not an option, look to see if the website names the actual brand of paper or the point. 

For example: 

I use 130# Classic Crest by Neenah Paper, 16 point stock. I think this maybe the heaviest paper on the market and it very smooth. I tested numerous papers over the years and found this to the best.

Why? 

Not only is it heavy, but is smooth ( not glossy) and the ink holds up fabulously. Dark colors are solid, photos are bright and smooth, and light areas are true to color.

A toothy or rough surface paper sucks up the ink and photos look dull. I don't like glossy or shiny surfaces, but I also don't like dull ones either...this paper rocks and it is made in the USA. 

Posted via email from ruvacards's posterous