As a commercial printer, we receive quote requests for all kinds of print projects every day. One thing we notice often is that when a client wants a paper stock with low sheen, the request will usually say "matte." But after we talk through the project, we often find that uncoated paper is actually the better choice.
Over time, we have learned that "matte" is often used as a general term for paper with little shine. In other words, the client usually wants a non-glossy stock. That said, they may truly want matte paper, or they may really mean uncoated paper and just call it matte.
That is why it is our job to figure out which paper qualities are really needed. In many cases, we also explain how matte paper and uncoated paper differ so the final printed piece turns out as well as possible.
What is Matte Paper?
Matte paper is a coated paper stock. Coated stocks have a surface sealant applied at the paper mill during manufacturing.
The more coating that is applied, the smoother the surface becomes and the more light it reflects. The more light it reflects, the higher the sheen level.
For example, a heavy coating creates a highly reflective surface known as gloss. A medium coating creates a semi-reflective surface known as semi-gloss, satin, or silk. A light coating creates a low-reflective surface known as matte.
The coating also helps keep ink on the surface of the sheet instead of letting it soak deeply into the paper fibers. In general, more coating means less ink absorption and brighter, more vivid colors. Less coating means more ink absorption and softer-looking colors.
Because matte paper has only a light coating, it is not as smooth or reflective as gloss or semi-gloss paper. Images printed on matte stock will look softer than they do on glossier coated papers. Even so, because matte paper does have some coating, images will usually look sharper than they would on uncoated paper.
What is Uncoated Paper?
Uncoated paper is paper that does not have a surface sealant. Since it has no coating, it keeps a more natural, rough texture. That texture scatters light in different directions, which is why uncoated paper has very little sheen.
A good example is basic copy paper, which is a common uncoated stock.
Because it has no coating, uncoated paper is also more porous and absorbs ink more easily. Ink tends to soak into the fibers and spread a bit. That is why images often look softer on uncoated paper than they do on matte coated paper.
When Should You Use Matte Paper vs. Uncoated Paper?
When a project calls for paper with low sheen, the best choice depends on how the piece will be used.
1) Will the printed piece contain lots of photos or illustrations?
Matte paper is usually the better choice for projects with photos, such as brochures, flyers, and sell sheets. It is also a strong option for illustration-heavy pieces like comic books and graphic novels.
That is because the coating on matte paper slows ink absorption and helps images look more defined than they would on uncoated paper.
2) Is the printed piece meant to be written on?
Uncoated paper is the better choice for items that will be written or drawn on, such as notepads, workbooks, forms, checks, coloring books, envelopes, stationery, and appointment cards.
The porous surface of uncoated paper helps hold marks from pens, pencils, crayons, and similar tools. A coated matte stock may smear in some situations.
3) Is the project a book with many pages of text?
Because both matte and uncoated paper have low glare, either one can work well for pages with lots of text. But if the project is a bound book or another multi-page document, the rougher texture of uncoated paper can make the pages easier to grip and turn.
That is one reason offset text stock, a very common uncoated paper, is such a popular choice for book interiors.
4) Will the printed piece be handled often?
Matte paper often holds up better than uncoated paper because its coating helps resist wear. Its smoother surface can also make it less likely to show dirt and moisture.
That makes matte paper a strong choice for theatre programs, pamphlets, brochures, newsletters, and other pieces that will be handled frequently.
5) Is the printed piece meant to feel elegant or high-end?
Some uncoated stocks, especially textured ones, can add a sense of style and class to a printed piece. Invitations, letterhead, presentation folders, and upscale restaurant menus often use uncoated stocks like laid or linen paper to create a more refined look.
Uncoated stocks also tend to work better for embossing and foil stamping.
Need Help Choosing the Right Paper?
If you have any print-related questions or need help deciding which paper type to choose for your particular project, give Formax Printing a call at 866-367-6221. As always, we look forward to assisting with your printing needs!
Take care! Rick
