| 1. Become familiar with what paper stocks are available.
Request current paper samples and discard old ones. Some paper mills
will provide printed samples on request.
2. Pay attention to information provided by the paper manufacturer.
It may indicate how a paper performs under different printing conditions.
3. Avoid using coated paper for materials on which people must
write, such as reply cards. Coated paper can cause writing to smear
and become illegible, especially if it is varnished.
4. Don't underestimate the effect paper has on the quality of
your printed piece. Paper typically constitutes one-third of a project's
budget. Skimping on paper most likely will diminish the quality
of your project.
5. Small changes in a stock basis weight can affect how the printed
images on the other side shows through. If possible, use a heavier
paper stock to minimize see-through when printing solid blocks of
colour on an offset press. If you decide to use a heavier paper
stock, check to see if it affects postal costs for the job.
6. When in doubt, or under time constraints, select a premium,
coated paper stock. (See #3 above.)
7. When in doubt about a paper or how it will perform on press,
consult David Thomas Printing or the paper manufacturer. |
