Choosing the right paper type is perhaps one of the most important decisions you’ll make when preparing to print your book. And that’s not just due to appearance. Paper stock impacts every facet of production, from the feel of your book to how your content is perceived by readers.
At Gasch Printing, we know that the right paper elevates your project and makes your work shine.
Why Paper Choice Matters
Talk about your page-turners. The paper you select for your book project impacts so many variables that entice someone to flip to the next:
- Readability: The right brightness and finish make text easy to read.
- Durability: Heavier papers withstand wear and tear, especially for books that get plenty of use.
- Aesthetics: Paper color and texture set the tone and style for your book.
How to Choose the Right Paper Type for Your Book
Let’s break down the main factors you should consider when choosing the right paper type for your book.
1. Know Your Book Type and Audience
- Is your book primarily text-based, like a novel, or photo-heavy, like a textbook?
- Who will read it? (Kids, adults, professionals, hobbyists, etc.)
For example, picture or photo books benefit from coated papers that make images pop. Novels, on the other hand, often use uncoated, natural-feeling stocks for easier reading.
2. Understand Paper Coating: Coated vs. Uncoated
- Coated paper stock offers a smooth or glossy surface that enhances image clarity and color vibrancy. This is phenomenal for books with lots of photos, illustrations, or graphics.
- Uncoated paper, however, delivers a more porous surface, resulting in a soft, natural feel that can be ideal for novels, poetry, or any text-heavy tome.
Here’s a Pro Tip: If your book favors the written word, and the written word only, uncoated paper is typically your best bet. For image-heavy projects, consider a matte or glossy coated option.
3. Choose the Right Paper Weight
Paper weight also affects how sturdy your book feels, with 50-60 lb. uncoated text being the standard for novels and most text-heavy books.
For instance, you may opt for 70-80 lb. coated text if you have an image-rich book, like a cookbook or an illustrated children’s story.
Pro Tip: Don’t overdo it! Heavier paper adds bulk and cost to your project.
4. Consider Paper Color and Opacity
White paper maximizes brightness and contrast and is ideal for technical or academic books. Cream colored or natural stock is softer on the eyes, perfect for fiction or literature.
A paper’s opacity refers to how much text will show through from the other side. Thicker paper has higher opacity, minimizing show-through.
5. Talk to Your Printer Early
Choosing the right paper for your book isn’t just a technical step, it’s a creative decision that brings your book to life.
Not sure where to begin? Don’t be afraid to ask. At Gasch Printing, we’ve made the digital printing process a cinch. Our comprehensive templates and guides will walk you through the necessary steps to create a quality product, and our sales and customer service representatives are happy to help you make informed decisions. Simply choose your specs and upload your files. We’ll take care of the rest.
Whether you’re publishing your first novel or a full-color coffee table book, Gasch Printing can help you select the perfect paper for your vision.