Paper types explained: art paper, art card, Super Sunshine, kraft and more
A simple guide to the papers used in printing in India: art paper, art card, Super Sunshine (maplitho), kraft, chromo and sticker paper, and what each is best for.
Two prints with the same design can look and feel completely different because of the paper. Here are the papers you will meet most often and when to choose each one.
| Paper | Feel | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Art paper (90–170 GSM) | Smooth, coated, colours look bright | Pamphlets, posters, calendars, brochures |
| Art card (250–350 GSM) | Thick, stiff, coated | Visiting cards, tags, thank-you cards, desk calendars |
| Super Sunshine / maplitho (70–100 GSM) | Uncoated, easy to write on | Letterheads, bill books, forms, notepads |
| Kraft paper | Brown, natural, strong | Paper bags, eco-friendly packaging |
| Chromo / sticker paper | Glossy face with a peel-off back | Labels and stickers |
| Textured card | Patterned surface, premium feel | Wedding cards, luxury visiting cards |
Coated or uncoated?
Coated paper (art paper, art card) has a smooth surface that keeps ink on top, so colours are bright and photos look sharp. Uncoated paper (Super Sunshine) soaks in a little ink, looks softer and is easy to write and sign on. That is why letterheads use uncoated paper and pamphlets use coated paper.
Matt or gloss?
Gloss makes colours pop and suits photos. Matt has no shine, reads easily under light and feels more elegant. You can also add gloss or matt lamination on top of the print.