Special Paper
In addition to standard coated paper, uncoated paper and coated one side paper, we also offer a wide range of specialty papers designed to elevate your printing projects. These materials are ideal for book covers, endpapers, business cards, playing cards, invitations, wrapping paper, folders, packaging, and many other applications where appearance and texture matter.
On this page, we will explain what specialty paper is, introduce some popular examples, and guide you in choosing the best option for your specific project needs.
What is Special Paper
Special paper refers to any type of paper that goes beyond standard printing papers in terms of texture, finish, color, or material. It’s designed to create unique visual and tactile effects, adding sophistication, creativity, or functionality to printed projects.
Key characteristics of special paper:
Unique textures: Linen, soft-touch, felt, embossed, metallic, or laid finishes.
Special colors or metallics: Pastel shades, neon, metallic, or pearlescent tones.
Enhanced functionality: Water-resistant, tear-resistant, or writable surfaces.
Special coatings or effects: Holographic, translucent, fluorescent, or pearlescent coatings.
Popular Types of Special Paper
Textured paper features a tactile surface, enhancing visual appeal and feel, commonly used for invitations, packaging, book covers, and artistic prints.
Leather-like paper mimics the texture and durability of leather, commonly used for book covers, journals, packaging, and premium stationery products.
Colored paper enhances visual appeal and flexibility, commonly used for endpapers, packaging, invitations, and bright creative presentations.
Cotton paper is soft, durable, and high-quality, often used for stationery, art prints, business cards, high-end coloring pages, and premium invitations.
Parchment paper has a smooth, slightly translucent finish, commonly used for invitations, wrapping paper, and decorative document presentations.
Metallic paper features a shimmering, reflective surface, often used for invitations, packaging, labels, and designs requiring a luxurious finish.
Vellum paper is smooth and translucent, often used for inserts, title pages, overlays, invitations, and elegant designs requiring a delicate appearance.
Soft-touch paper has a smooth, velvety appearance, often used for premium packaging, business cards, book covers, and luxury branding materials.
Soft-touch paper has a smooth, velvety appearance, often used for premium packaging, business cards, book covers, and luxury branding materials.
We provide FSC-certified or other recycled paper choices and can print the FSC logo on your product to highlight its eco-friendly quality.
If you can’t find the paper you’re looking for, please contact our team of experts for assistance. We also highly recommend ordering a sample pack to review materials firsthand and ensure the perfect choice for your project.
Specialty Paper Weights
Special paper weights vary depending on the type of material and the specifications provided by our trusted suppliers. Generally, these specialty papers range from 90gsm to 400gsm, allowing for a wide selection suitable for different applications. Lighter weights, such as 90–120gsm, are ideal for pages, inserts, and delicate printed materials, while medium weights around 150–250gsm are commonly used for covers, invitations, and packaging inserts. Heavier options, from 300–400gsm, provide greater durability and a premium feel, making them perfect for luxury packaging, hardcover covers, and high-end presentation materials.