How to Choose the Right Paper for Your Next Manhattan Print Job
Picking the right paper for your next Manhattan print job affects color, feel, durability, and cost. This quick guide breaks down weights, finishes, and real-world use cases so you can order with confidence and meet your deadline in NYC.
A fast framework: right paper for your next Manhattan print job
Use these four questions to decide quickly:
Purpose: Handout, mailer, or premium leave-behind?
Finish: Gloss for pop, matte/silk for readability, uncoated for a natural look and writable surface.
Durability: Thicker cover stocks for longevity; lighter text stocks for page counts and budgets.
Sustainability: Recycled content and FSC-certified options are widely available.
Paper weight explained (Text vs. Cover vs. GSM)
Text stocks (70–100 lb / 104–150 gsm): Flexible sheets for brochures, flyers, and letterheads.
Cover stocks (80–130 lb cover / 216–350 gsm): Rigid sheets for postcards, business cards, and sturdy covers.
Point thickness (pt): Common for cards; 14 pt and 16 pt are NYC favorites for a solid, premium feel.
Coated vs. Uncoated: which finish fits?
Gloss Coated: Maximum color vibrancy and sharp detail. Great for photo-heavy pieces and retail promos.
Matte/Silk Coated: Low glare, elegant, and easy to read—ideal for brochures, booklets, and brand materials.
Uncoated: Tactile, modern, and writable. Perfect for letterheads, notecards, and minimalist brands.
Popular Manhattan use cases and recommendations
Business Cards: 16 pt silk/matte cover for sophistication; add soft-touch lamination if you want a luxe feel.
Postcards & Mailers: 14–16 pt coated cover for durability through the mail stream.
Brochures & One-Pagers: 100 lb gloss or silk text; folds crisply and displays images beautifully.
Booklets: 100 lb text for inside pages with an 80–100 lb cover (matte or silk) for structure.
Letterheads & Stationery: 70–80 lb uncoated text for a smooth writing surface.
Color accuracy, readability, and feel
If brand colors must match closely, lean toward coated stocks for smoother ink laydown. For long-form reading or note-taking, pick matte/silk or uncoated to reduce glare and allow pen or pencil.
Sustainability that clients notice
Recycled and FSC-certified papers cost less than you think and communicate values your NYC clients appreciate. Ask us for options with 30–100% post-consumer waste content.
FAQs
What paper weight should I use for business cards?
Most NYC brands choose 16 pt matte or silk cover for a premium, durable card.
Is uncoated paper good for color?
Yes, but colors print softer. Choose coated stocks for maximum saturation and photo detail.
What is the difference between 100 lb text and 100 lb cover?
Both say “100 lb,” but cover is much thicker. When in doubt, compare GSM or ask our team.
