I see coated, uncoated, glossy and matte in description, what is the difference?
So many options! We know it's overwhelming. We strongly suggest you request a free sample pack or come to the shop to see our the stocks available before placing an order. Papers and card stocks are generally made with either an uncoated or coated finish that has nothing to do with any type of coating applied during the printing process. Uncoated stocks tend to have a more matte or muted appearance and the stock is a little bit grainier than other stocks, so if you are looking for very sharp text, this might not be the best paper stock for that or graphics that require razor sharp edges.
For a quick rundown, here are some point form descriptions:
Matte Aqueous coating: Dull, close to non-reflective coating. The most popular coating we have available on our offset press. You can write on it, but the ink can potentially smudge.
UV Gloss coating: Highly reflective shiny coating. Makes colors more vibrant. Popular for pricelists, menus, etc. We do not recommend this coating if you are looking to write on it.
Gloss Lamination: An even thicker UV gloss coating. Catches light very well. More robust than the 16pt UV gloss coating.
Silk Lamination: A very matte finish look. Works especially well for spot gloss, as the contrast between the two make the spot gloss visually pop. Silky to the touch. Not good for writing on.
Uncoated: Raw paper stock feel which is perfect for writing on with pen, pencil or marker. Non-reflective.
What is the difference between coated and uncoated cards, UV gloss, spot gloss and matte aqueous coating?
We all have certain ideas in mind when we hear these terms, so to avoid any confusion here is what we mean when we use these terms.
Coated Card Stocks are card stocks that have a thin layer of clay to seal the paper fibers and create a smooth surface to print on. Coated card stocks provide brighter color as the inks sit on top of the coating and do not absorb into the paper fiber. Please be sure to use a coated swatch book when selecting colors for your design.
Uncoated Card Stocks are card stocks that have exposed paper fibers and a natural slightly fibrous feel. Uncoated card stocks provide muted color as the inks absorb into the fibers of the stock. Please be sure to use an uncoated swatch book when selecting colors for your design.
UV Gloss and UV Spot Gloss Coating is a clear coating that is applied over top of the job from the final ink well on the press. This coating is cured (dried) by a UV lamp unit on the press giving it a high gloss sheen as the press sheets are fed off and stacked to be trimmed. UV coating will enhance colors making them slightly darker and more vibrant. UV gloss and spot gloss coatings are only available on coated card stocks.
Matte Aqueous Coating is a clear coating that is applied over top of the job from the final ink well on the press. This coating evaporates when exposed to oxygen and actually helps dry the ink underneath as the press sheets are fed off and stacked to be trimmed. Aqueous coatings are invisible to the eye and leave a matte low luster finish. Aqueous coatings can be applied to coated or uncoated stocks to help inks dry faster.