Paper

What is the correct paper for my printer?

It is important to select the correct paper for your machine – hopefully this guide will help you decide what is best for you.
When printing documents from you printer or copier, it is important to use the correct paper. There are several different types of paper and the main types are as follows: correspondence paper, economy copier paper, inkjet paper, laser paper, multi-functional paper, photo paper, pre-printed stationery, recycled paper and specialist papers. For the majority of offices the paper that will be required is; economy copier paper, inkjet paper, laser paper and multi-functional paper. This type of paper describes which machine it will work in best. For optimum performance for an inkjet printer it is important to use inkjet paper. At www.paperstone.co.uk there are several inkjet papers available to suit all budgets. Most printer manufacturers will recommend using their printer paper with their printers, HP have produced a range of inkjet papers to be used in conjunction with their inkjet printers, these range in quality and price. The HP range starts from 80 gsm and goes through to 180 gsm paper. Epson also produce their own branded paper which they recommend for use in their printers. Laser printers will perform best using laser paper. Many of the higher quality all round paper such as the Berga Image can be used for inkjet, laser and copier printing.

What grade of Paper do I need?

As well as choosing the right type of paper for your machine, it is also important that you get the grade you require. Broadly speaking papers can be categorised into three types; A,B and C. A grade papers are the best quality, followed by B grade papers and then C grade papers. Examples of each are as follows:

• A grade papers: High-white, smooth and bright finish. They are primarily used for letterheads as well as important or prestigious documents. A grade papers will normally be able to run in all types of printers including inkjet and laser.
• B grade papers: These are not as smooth or bright white as the A grade papers, but nevertheless still a good paper – perfect for internal reports and some external communications. They can be used in most machines but tend to perform best with mono (black) printers.
• C grade papers: These papers are less smooth, bright or sturdy than both the B and A grade. C grade papers are perfect for internal memos or informal documents. They are designed to work well with high volume printing (without jamming) but will not deliver the appearance of either a B or A grade paper.

It is important that paper is looked after correctly and stored in appropriate conditions:

• Paper must not be stored in a damp area, paper is designed with a specific moisture level, and if it becomes damp it will jam in your printer. So keep your paper out of the rain!!
• Paper must not be exposed to the sun or left in a hot area like by a radiator. Due to the sensitive moisture level in the paper, drying out will also cause it to jam in your laser, inkjet or copy printer.
• It is important that paper is stored in the reams and boxes in which it arrives; this is for two reasons, firstly it will prevent it from absorbing moisture in the air and secondly it will protect it from bumps and knocks which can cause jamming.
• Finally it is important that paper is not exposed to severe temperatures, if paper is used at very cold conditions it will cause the printer to jam.

Paper sizes are quoted in the ISO format: A4, A3, A2, A1 etc.

Here are some examples of different paper grades:

• A grade papers: HP colour laser paper, HP all-in-one paper, Neusiedler colour copy paper, Navigator colour document paper, Berga image paper, Evolve business paper, 5 star premier colour laser paper, 5 star premier paper, Data colour laser paper, Xerox colourtech+ paper.
• B grade papers: 5 star office paper, Data copy paper, HP laserjet paper, Xerox premier paper, Navigator presentation Paperstone Ltd
• C grade papers: Navigator office paper, Xerox performer paper, Evolve office paper, Advance agro double A paper, HP office paper, HP printing paper, Berga speed paper.
• Uncoated Inkjet paper: Navigator inkjet paper, HP everyday inkjet paper, 5 star premier inkjet paper, Data copy paper.

When printing photos on either inkjet or laser printers it is vital to use the correct photo paper. Again as above if you are using an inkjet printer you should have inkjet photo paper and if you are using a laser printer you should have laser photo paper. Most manufacturers such as HP, Epson and Canon recommend that you use their photo paper; however there are also very good alternatives such as 5 Star, Kodak.
Photo papers come in many sizes, weights and finishes. Sizes are from postcard to A3, weights can vary from 80 gsm to very thick card 280 gsm and finishes tend to be either matt or glossy.
Paperstone supplies over 450 different types of paper. Everything you could need for the office, home or home office. Whether you are printing photos, letters, and presentation work or simply copying large quantities Paperstone has it covered.