⏱️ Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
Getting Great Flyers Without the Price Tag
We get it — you want eye-catching flyers that don’t look or feel cheap, but you’re working to a budget. It’s a balancing act, and choosing the right paper stock can make all the difference. In this guide, we’ll walk you through tried-and-tested tips to pick flyer stocks that look professional, feel substantial, and still keep costs down.
⏱️ Reading time: 7 minutes · Updated for 2025 · UK Printing Guide
Why Paper Choice Matters More Than You Think
Flyers aren’t just folded sheets of paper — they’re a tactile handshake from your brand to your audience. The weight, texture, and finish all send subtle messages about your business. You might be surprised how much a slight upgrade in stock can boost perceived value without blowing your budget.
In most cases, going for a mid-weight paper around 135 to 170gsm gives you a sturdy feel without the cost of heavyweight card. Coated stocks can add vibrancy to your colours, making images pop, while uncoated papers offer a softer, more natural touch. Interestingly, the choice between coated and uncoated can also influence how your audience emotionally connects with your flyer—glossy finishes might suggest modernity and excitement, whereas uncoated papers could evoke a sense of authenticity and warmth.
Top Tips for Picking Flyer Stocks That Impress
1. Aim For Mid-Weight Papers
Flyers printed on 135gsm or 170gsm paper usually hit the sweet spot. They feel substantial in hand — not flimsy or like a leaf blower’s flyer — yet they’re cost-effective for larger print runs. While some might be tempted to go heavier for a more premium feel, it’s worth considering that too thick a stock can read as overkill or make mailing more expensive. Balancing quality with practicality often means mid-weight is your best bet.
2. Choose a Coated Finish for Colour Punch
Gloss or silk coatings enhance colours and make images sharper, which grabs attention. Gloss tends to be a bit shinier, while silk has a softer, more elegant sheen. Both are budget-friendly ways to avoid dull-looking prints. From experience, silk finishes can feel less aggressive under bright indoor lighting and might suit brands aiming for a subtly classy vibe, whereas gloss can be perfect for flyers featuring vivid photography or bold graphics that need to pop.
3. Consider Uncoated for a Natural Look
If your brand is eco-conscious or you want a more organic feel, uncoated papers work well. They’re great for text-heavy flyers or designs with earthy tones. Just keep in mind colours usually appear more muted on uncoated stock. This can be an advantage if your messaging is understated or if you want to avoid the sometimes harsh glare of coated finishes. On the downside, uncoated papers can be more prone to smudging if handled excessively.
4. Think About Recycled Paper Options
Recycled stocks have come a long way and often look just as sharp as virgin paper. Plus, they signal your commitment to sustainability. We’ve seen plenty of customers choose recycled flyers with a silk finish for that perfect mix of eco-friendly and professional. It’s worth noting, though, that recycled paper can sometimes have a slightly different texture or color cast, which may or may not align with your brand identity. Asking for samples is a smart move here.
5. Don’t Overlook Paper Texture
Textures like laid or felt can add subtle sophistication, but they may push the price up. If you want a unique touch without overspending, ask your printer for sample swatches to feel the difference before deciding. Sometimes, a lightly textured paper can create a memorable tactile experience that encourages people to hold onto your flyer longer. However, intricate textures might interfere with fine print legibility or image clarity, so weigh the pros and cons carefully.
6. Keep Your Audience in Mind
Where will your flyer be handed out? For outdoor distribution, a slightly heavier stock or a protective laminate can help your flyers stand up to wear and tear. For indoor events, you can usually opt for lighter stocks to save money. Also, consider your target demographic’s expectations; for example, a high-end boutique might require a premium-feeling stock to align with their clientele’s tastes, whereas a community event may prioritize cost-efficiency over luxe finishes.
How This Works in Real Life: A Quick Example
One of our recent customers wanted to promote a new café on a tight budget. They chose 135gsm silk-coated flyers — a smart middle ground. The paper felt good in hand, the colours were bright and inviting, and the finish gave a subtle sheen without glare. Interestingly, this choice seemed to resonate well with their local audience, who appreciated the quality without it feeling overly corporate or flashy.
Thanks to careful stock choice, their flyers looked far from cheap. Their takeaway? Even on a budget, thoughtful paper selection can convey quality and professionalism. It’s a small detail that can make a big difference in how your message is received.
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Wrapping Up: Quality Flyers Without the Premium Price
Choosing flyer stock wisely is one of the easiest ways to make your print look and feel more professional without blowing your budget. Mid-weight, coated papers are usually the best bet, but recycled and uncoated stocks have their place too. It’s also worth remembering that the way your flyers are designed interacts with the paper choice — a great stock can only do so much if the layout or images fall flat.
If you’re unsure, you can always ask us at Newstyle Print for advice. You’re welcome to email your artwork over for a quick free check or chat through the best paper and finish options for your project. Sometimes a fresh pair of eyes can spot opportunities you might have missed.
If you’d like advice on printing, we’re always happy to help — free artwork check included.
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FAQ
What paper weight is best for flyers?
Most flyers look great on 135gsm to 170gsm paper. It’s thick enough to feel substantial but still affordable for bulk printing. If you want something lighter or heavier, it depends on your budget and how you plan to distribute them. For example, lightweight flyers might work for large handouts at busy festivals, but they risk feeling flimsy; whereas heavier stocks can impress at trade shows but increase mailing costs.
Should I choose coated or uncoated paper for flyers?
Coated paper (gloss or silk) makes colours pop and gives a polished look. Uncoated feels more natural and is often better for text-heavy designs or eco-friendly branding. The choice depends on your desired look and feel, as well as practical considerations like how the flyers will be handled and the ambient lighting where they’ll be displayed.
Are recycled paper stocks more expensive?
Recycled papers can sometimes cost a bit more, but many options are competitively priced nowadays. They’re a great choice if sustainability is important to you and can still look professional with the right finish. That said, it’s worth clarifying with your printer what percentage of recycled content is in the paper, as this can affect both cost and appearance.
Can I laminate my flyers to make them more durable?
Yes, lamination adds a protective layer and can enhance appearance. It’s especially useful for outdoor flyers or those handled a lot. Keep in mind lamination adds to cost and turnaround time. Plus, some laminates can create glare or make flyers feel less environmentally friendly, so weigh your priorities carefully.
How can Newstyle Print help with choosing flyer stock?
We offer free artwork checks and expert advice on paper stocks and finishes. Just send us your designs or ask questions — we’re here to make sure your flyers look great and fit your budget. Sometimes, small tweaks in paper choice can completely change how your flyer performs in the real world.
Updated on 16 December 2025
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