CHOOSING THE RIGHT PAPER
After reading Ask Mohawk “Paper Basic”, an in-depth awareness of paper, and printing, also the receptivity of ink on paper was revealed. As a designer, terms was never a factor when considering paper for print, it was always judged by perception. Coated paper was always the first choice; because it always appear to absorb the ink without a smudge, or misprint which is sometimes experienced when printing with certain types of paper, especially glossy paper, when printed on the wrong printer, and with the wrong ink. It was good to learn the actual ingredient paper was made out of. Beside the pulps, cotton, coloring, and various chemicals, terms like optical whiteness, fillers, formation, and opacity which are inclusive in the making of paper, help one determine the best grade, and finish off paper required for a specific job, and will yield the expected result.
The information attained from the Mohawk text, tells of the different categories of paper types, and their related significance. These categories are in respect for the purpose they serve, and should be select with discretion by the designer in relation to the design, the print, and, the targeted audience in focus. Paper varies from opaque, offset, coated, writing, text and cover paper. Opaque and offset paper are uncoated, and have good internal bonding which is good for long run printing. Coated paper on the other hand have a sheen, and acts great with ink hold out to minimize dot grains. Writing paper known as correspondence, or bond paper is specifically made for letterhead, corporate identity programs, and office printing; basically, it is for legible typography, it is made from cotton fiber, have beautiful feel, and reinforcement. Text and cover paper is premium uncoated printing paper that come in various colors and finishes, the text paper is lighter than average paper and serve well for pages; reports, booklets, and, brochures. Cover paper are heavy, and strong, they are good for covers, and business cards. Text and cover papers are made with a smooth finish, and texture naturally called vellum, wove, eggshell, felt and linen.
After exploring the different sources of paper, and their significance “writing paper” came into focus. Writing paper, because it is so versatility, takes the edge over most of the other types of papers available for printing. While it is true that it is not suitable for all jobs, it sure severs a wide range of purposes except for heavy advertising which includes large font, photographs, and, illustrations that requires stronger, and more durable grades of paper. Factually, the paper of choice depends on the type of job, the cost, and, the intended audience.
