Printing materials aren’t just paper – there’s a whole world of substrates, enhancements and additives that affect the look, durability and reception of the finished product. For people who don’t sit in the industry every day, names like “PET,” “kraftliner” or “soft touch” may sound mysterious. In this glossary, we explain the most important terms – briefly, concretely and with examples.
Chalk paper (coated)
Paper covered with a layer of chalk, which gives it a smooth, slightly glossy (glossy chalk) or matte (matte chalk) surface. It allows very good color reproduction – that’s why it is perfect for printing catalogs, flyers, posters or magazines.
Thicknesses: from 90 g to 350 g.
Most common applications: flyers, book covers, folders, packaging.
Offset paper (uncoated)
This is paper without an additional coating layer – it resembles regular office paper, but also comes in higher quality and weight. It has a slightly rough texture and less color contrast, so it is chosen where legibility and eco-friendly appearance are important.
Thicknesses: 70-300 g
Uses: books, notebooks, letterheads, instructions.
Kraft paper (brown)
Kraft fiber paper, very durable, often used in eco-friendly projects. Its natural brown hue is an advantage – it doesn’t need to be dyed, which lowers the environmental impact.
Applications: bags, envelopes, eco packaging, covers.
Recycled paper
It is made from recycled paper and often has a slight gray or cream tint. It’s available in a range of qualities – from economy to premium (e.g. RecyStar Nature, CircleOffset White). A great choice if you care about the environment.
Applications: books, brochures, CSR reports, eco-advertising materials.
Matt and glossy film
Applied to covers and other surfaces to protect and improve aesthetics. Matte film is elegant, subdued, less reflective. Gloss film highlights colors and gives a “wow” effect. Both increase resistance to abrasion and dirt.
Soft touch film
Exceptionally soft to the touch – it gives the impression of a velvety surface. The luxurious effect attracts attention and increases the prestige of materials. Often used on book covers, catalogs and premium packaging.
UV varnish
Clear varnish applied spot or all-over – gives shine and increases contrast. It can be used decoratively (e.g. spot varnish on logos) or technically (e.g. abrasion protection).
Cardboard GC1 / GC2
Two- or three-ply cartons for packaging. GC1 has a smooth white exterior and gray interior, GC2 is white on both sides. Stable, rigid, printable – ideal for producing unit boxes.
PET / PP – plastics
Used in printing labels, packaging or POS materials. PET is more rigid and weather resistant, PP more flexible. Both can be transparent, milky or white.
Printing materials – worth remembering:
- The choice of material affects not only aesthetics, but also durability and perceived quality.
- Eco-friendly options (recycled, kraft, biodegradable films) are gaining popularity.
- It’s always a good idea to ask the printer about available samples – paper is better evaluated in hand than on a screen.