The Beginner’s Guide to Paper Textures and Finishes

Many people assume that all paper is the same, but that could not be further from the truth. In reality, just like certain types of fabric are best suited for specific garments, each texture of paper can be appropriate for a unique type of project.

When you receive a business card, you expect the paper to feel thick, smooth, and impressive. However, when you receive a flyer for a local restaurant in the mail, you might expect the paper to feel thin and glossy. What are the types of paper texture everyone should know?

What Are the Different Finishes of Paper?

Paper finishes are also known as paper textures, and these terms both describe how a piece of paper feels in your hands. Is the paper smooth and slick to the touch? Is it rough and textured? Every paper texture is different, and every finish of paper has a different ideal use.

What Are the Smooth Paper Finishes?

Lets Explore what are smooth paper finished.

• Vellum
  Vellum appears smooth to the naked eye, but when you touch it, you will notice a subtle waxy finishes . This paper finish is incredibly versatile and appropriate for scrapbooking, printed books and catalogs, and direct mail. 
• Wove
  Wove paper feels smooth to the touch and is best suited to writing and printing. Wove is one of the most popular finishes on the market. 
• Smooth
  While all of the finishes above feel smooth to the touch, smooth paper is designed to be as smooth and seamless as possible. Many people think that it feels like the paper is texture-free. It can be valuable for a variety of purposes and make a great impression thanks to the remarkably smooth feel. 

What Are the Textured Paper Finishes?

• Linen
  In the same way that linen cloth is slightly textured, linen paper has crosshatched lines that give it texture. When you want a texture of paper that is timeless for your stationery, cards, invitations, or business needs, linen is an excellent choice. 
• Laid
  This unique paper texture is similar to what you’ll find on handmade paper, as laid paper features a subtle grid pattern that feels bespoke and handmade. Laid paper is very versatile and looks beautiful for printing stationery, brochures, and invitations. 
• Felt
  Felt finishes look soft to the eye and feel like a combination of woven fabric and paper. Felt finishes are often used as a overlay in invitations or on menus to add interest. Felt paper can also add something special to your stationery.

How Can You Choose the Right Textures of Paper for Your Project?

It isn’t always easy to choose the right texture of paper, as there are many options for finishes, weight, and size. Think critically about what message you want to convey. For an event like a wedding, linen paper with crisp lettering could make an elegant first impression. However, if the event is a children’s birthday party, smooth and glossy paper might be a better fit.

You can also consider the longevity of the item you’re printing. Something like a flyer might be disposed of within a few weeks, but a keepsake item would benefit from high-quality textured paper.

Investing time in exploring different paper textures and weights will pay off in the form of a stunning finished product that you can’t wait to distribute.