Paper Sheets: What They Are and How to Choose the Right Ones
If you’ve ever needed a sheet of paper for a school project, a printer job, or a DIY craft, you know there’s more than just ‘white paper.’ Different sheets work better for different jobs, and picking the right one can save you money and frustration.
Common Types of Paper Sheets
First, let’s look at the most popular varieties. Copy paper is the everyday 80 gsm (grams per square metre) sheet you find in most offices. It’s cheap and works fine for everyday printing.
Inkjet paper is smoother and usually a bit thicker, helping the ink sit on the surface without soaking. If you print photos at home, this is a safe bet.
Laser paper is designed for high‑heat laser printers. It’s coated to resist the toner melting into the fibers, so you get sharper text and fewer jams.
For special projects, you might need cardstock (anywhere from 200‑300 gsm). It’s stiff enough for business cards, invitations, or scrapbook pages.
How to Pick the Right Sheet for Your Job
Ask yourself three simple questions: What am I printing? How will the paper be handled? What’s my budget?
If you’re printing a text‑heavy document, stick with copy paper – it’s affordable and prints cleanly. For photos or graphics with vibrant colors, go for inkjet or photo paper that has a glossy or matte finish.
When you need durability, such as for a menu or a flyer you’ll hand out, choose a heavier cardstock. It feels professional and won’t tear easily.
Don’t forget the size. In the UK, A4 (210 mm × 297 mm) is standard for most office work. A5 is handy for booklets, and letter size (8.5 × 11 in) is common in the US.
Finally, compare prices per ream. Sometimes a bulk pack of 5,000 sheets is cheaper per sheet, but only buy what you’ll actually use. Unused paper can absorb moisture and warp over time.
By matching the paper’s weight, coating, and size to your specific need, you’ll get better print quality and avoid wasted ink or toner.
So next time you’re about to order paper, remember these quick tips: know the printer type, pick the right weight, and keep an eye on price. Your projects will look sharper and you’ll spend less on replacements.