When designing an interactive book, selecting the right materials is key to achieving both functionality and visual quality. Your paper choices should match your design goals and the type of interactivity included, such as stickers, pop-ups, lift-the-flaps, pull tabs, or other movable features. Typically, you’ll need to consider three main components: the cover, the interior pages, and the interactive elements.
For most interactive books, two to three layers of 250-350gsm C1S paper, finished with glossy or matte lamination, are commonly used for the interior pages. This layered construction provides the strength, rigidity, and durability needed for complex interactive mechanisms. Depending on the complexity of your design, you may need 2, 3, 4, or more layers to ensure all elements function smoothly.
For simpler lift-the-flap or pop-up elements, you could also use 180gsm or more thicker uncoated paper or 250 -350 gsm C2S paper for the interior and interactive components. For added durability, the interactive components can be slightly thicker than the base interior pages, depending on your design.
For the cover, you have two main options:
Self-cover board book binding: Use the same material as the interior.
Hardcover binding: Use 2-3mm grayboard wrapped with 157gsm coated paper, finished with glossy or matte lamination.
