⏱️ Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Why Does Paper Choice Matter So Much?
You’ve poured your heart into writing your book — but the paper you print on can really make or break the reader’s experience. It’s not just about looks; the feel, weight, and finish all play subtle roles in how your story is received. Plus, your choice can affect printing costs and even the environment.
Quick Tips for Picking Paper That Works
1. Consider the Paper Weight (GSM)
GSM stands for grams per square metre, and it basically tells you how thick or thin your paper is. For most books, somewhere between 90 and 150 GSM works well. Thinner paper keeps costs and weight down, great for novels or text-heavy books. Heavier stock feels premium and is perfect for photography books or art catalogues.
2. Think About Coated vs Uncoated
Coated papers have a shiny or matte finish that helps images pop — ideal if your book has lots of photos or colourful illustrations. Uncoated papers feel more natural and softer to the touch; they’re often preferred for novels, poetry, or anything with extensive text because they reduce glare and are easier on the eyes.
3. Match Paper to Binding Type
The kind of binding you choose — whether perfect bound, wiro bound, or staple bound — can influence suitable paper weights and thickness. For example, perfect bound books often use thinner paper to keep the spine neat, while wiro bound notebooks might handle thicker stock better. We’ve seen authors balance this carefully to avoid cracking spines or pages that don’t turn smoothly.
4. Don’t Overlook Paper Colour and Texture
White is the default, but cream or ivory tones can add a warm, classic feel that suits literary fiction or heritage topics. Textured papers, like laid or linen finishes, introduce a tactile element that can elevate greeting cards or special edition books. Just be mindful that very textured papers sometimes challenge digital printers and might cost a bit more.
5. Eco-Friendly Options Are More Accessible Than Ever
If environmental impact matters to you — and it probably does — look for recycled or FSC-certified papers. They’ve come a long way in quality and printability. Using eco-friendly paper can be a selling point, especially for invitations, business stationery, or books targeting conscious readers.
A Real-World Example: Sarah’s Cookbook Journey
Sarah, a local chef, wanted to self-publish her first cookbook. She initially considered glossy coated paper to make her food photos pop but worried about the weight and cost. After chatting with her printer, she chose a slightly lighter matte coated paper. It gave her images a rich look without the glare, kept the book manageable in weight, and saved on postage. Her readers often mention how inviting the pages feel, which just goes to show how paper choice can impact reader love.
Wrapping Up: It’s About Balancing Feel, Look, and Practicalities
At the end of the day, choosing paper isn’t about picking the most expensive option or the flashiest finish. It’s about what best suits your content, your audience, and your budget. If you’re ever stuck, it’s worth ordering paper samples or getting advice from a printer who really knows their stuff — it can save you time, money, and headaches down the line.
Updated on 11 November 2025
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