Folder paper selection contributes as much as personalization techniques in producing a folder that compliments your presentation. Paper choices are broad and consist of a wide variety of textures and finishes. The best choice for your folder is determined by how it will be branded, with ink, foil or embossing, and the group that you are targeting with your presentations; such as professional, manufacturing, realtors and promotional organizations.
The following guidelines are general rules for a successful folder production;
COATED STOCK:
IF printing with process colors for pictures and logos that contain multi-color combination-a coated stock is usually the best choice. Coated paper is produced with coating on the surface that prevents the paper fiber from absorbing all of the ink down into the fiber of the stock. The end result is more ink dries on the surface and yields a shiny and more reflective ink color. This is usually seen as a “brighter” image by the eye and desirable for color images. Coated stocks come in a variety of finishes. Gloss, Semi-gloss, and Dull. All of these are coated stocks and commonly used for color printing. The differences are subtle degrees of reflectivity from the shine on the stock. Often dull stocks will be used in combination with “gloss” varnishes to yield a shiny and dull affect to the same color on the same printed piece. Traditionally, coated stocks, after printing, are coated with a protective varnish or UV coating to protect the ink from scratching during the folding and gluing process to complete the folder construction. This is recommended because the ink is on the surface and likely to scratch or chip if not coated with a protective coating.
The most inexpensive and widely available coated stock is in white. However, ink can be applied in heavy coverage to create any color that is available in PMS inks.
COATED COLOR STOCKS:
Coated stocks are available in colors other than white. Coated stocks are available pre-dyed from the mills in popular colors such as black, blue, red, green and ivory. The colored stocks are popular for personalization with foils when a stronger contrast is desired for silver and gold colors of hot stamping.
NON-COATED STOCKS:
Non-coated stocks is a classification for any paper that does not have a coating applied at the mill for printing. The uncoated stocks are available in many colors and textures. Some of the more popular and well known textures are linen, laid, felts and specialty papers with vertical rows and speckles. The un-coated stocks are versatile for printing, hot foil stamping and preferred when your design calls for embossing. The uncoated stocks do not have a finish that is subject to cracking or breaking when the pressure of an embossing plate is applied.
**Darker stocks are not recommended when using ink for branding for coverage challenges**
