How to Choose the Right Paper for Your Booklets

Have you ever been impressed by a business just from the look and feel of their booklet? The right paper can instantly elevate your brand perception. Even a simple design can look high-end when printed on quality stock.

Choosing the right paper for your booklet may seem overwhelming with all the options available. A good rule of thumb: the inner pages should never be thicker than the cover. This guide will help you understand the different types of paper for booklets and when to use each one.

Silk Coated Paper (Matte)

What it is:
Silk coated paper has a smooth, soft finish that lands somewhere between glossy and matte. It offers a subtle sheen that feels luxurious, while keeping text crisp and readable.

Available Weights:

• Inner and cover pages: 80lb Book, 100lb Book

• Cover pages only: 80lb to 110lb Book & Cover

When to use it:
Silk coated paper is ideal for text-heavy booklets. Its soft shine provides just enough polish without sacrificing readability. Use it for:

• Product catalogs

• Business partner brochures

• Informational guides

This finish delivers a polished, professional look that’s perfect for corporate materials.

Gloss Paper 

What it is:
Gloss paper delivers a high-shine finish that enhances color and vibrancy. It’s a popular choice for bold visuals and graphic-heavy designs.

Available Weights:

• Inner and cover pages: 80lb Book, 100lb Book
• Cover pages only: 80lb to 110lb Book & Cover

When to use it:

Use gloss paper when your design relies on images over text. It’s a great option for: Visual concept presentations Art or photography booklets Promotional brochures

Writable Paper

What it is:
Writable paper is uncoated, meaning it has a natural, matte surface with no added gloss or finish. This texture makes it ideal for writing, stamping, or marking without smudging or smearing.

When to use it:
Choose writable paper when you want your audience to fill in information directly on the booklet. It’s perfect for:

• Appointment booklets

• Order forms

• Feedback sections

• Training manuals

• Notebooks or activity booklets

This paper adds functionality to your design, making it interactive and practical—especially for materials meant to be written on.

Matte Laminated Paper (Cover Only)

What it is:
Matte laminated paper delivers a smooth, elegant finish without the shine. It’s professional, subtle, and perfect for serious or corporate materials.

When to use it:
Matte lamination is great for typography-driven or text-focused designs, especially when you want to communicate prestige and clarity. Consider it for:  

• Executive presentations

• Event handouts

• Premium business brochures

Additional Factors to Consider

When selecting paper for your booklet, don’t just focus on appearance. Keep these practical elements in mind:

• Budget: Higher paper weights and finishes cost more. Choose what offers the best value for your goals.
• Page Count: Thicker paper adds weight. For booklets with over 50 pages, consider using lighter paper for the inner pages
• Readability. Glossy finishes can create glare. For text-heavy content, silk is easier on the eyes.
• Content Type: Use glossy paper for image-driven designs and matte or silk for informative, text-based booklets.
• Durability: The thicker the paper, the longer your booklet will last, especially important for materials you want clients to keep.

Choosing the right paper isn’t just a finishing touch. It’s a decision that affects how your content is received and remembered. If you have any questions or need help picking the best paper for your booklet, feel free to contact us. We’re happy to help you create a lasting impression.