Textured Paper Options
Textured paper is paper that has been embossed or manufactured with a deliberately irregular surface pattern. Unlike smooth coated or uncoated papers, textured paper has a visible, tactile finish that adds depth and character to the printed piece. The texture is something you can feel before you see it, and that physical quality is what makes textured paper a strong choice for products where first impressions matter.
We offer a wide selection of textured surface patterns, including fine linen grain, fine sand texture, Martha texture, fabric grain, canvas texture, and more. If you have a specific texture in mind that is not listed, contact us and we will source options for you.
Different Kinds of Textured Paper
We offer a wide variety of textured papers, each with a unique surface pattern that creates a different visual and tactile impression. Below is an overview of the textures available. We recommend ordering a sample pack to see and feel each texture in person before making your final selection.
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Available Weights
| Weight (gsm) | Approx. lb Equivalent | Approx. Thickness | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 90 gsm | 60 lb text | 0.09 mm | Interiors, stationery, lightweight wrapping |
| 110 gsm | 74 lb text | 0.12 mm | Interiors, saddle stitch covers |
| 130 gsm | 87 lb text | 0.14 mm | Hardcover wrappings, end sheets |
| 160 gsm | 108 lb text | 0.17 mm | Large size end sheets, invitations |
| 210 gsm | 77 lb cover | 0.25 mm | Paperback covers |
| 240 gsm | 88 lb cover | 0.29 mm | Paperback covers, presentation folders |
| 275 gsm | 101 lb cover | 0.33 mm | Smaller folding boxes, paperback covers, presentation folders |
| 330 gsm | 121 lb cover | 0.38 mm | Folding boxes, inserts |
Exact thickness varies by texture pattern and manufacturer. The values above are typical ranges. We recommend ordering a sample to evaluate the specific texture and weight before committing to a full production run.
Common Applications
- Hardcover book wraps: textured paper wrapped on grayboard creates a distinctive, premium cover without the need for cloth or leather. White or cream textures can be printed directly with offset or UV methods.
- End sheets: textured end sheets add a tactile surprise when the reader opens the book, elevating the perceived quality of the entire product.
- Paperback covers: a textured paperback cover gives a book a distinctive feel on the shelf. The added surface interest can set a title apart from standard gloss- or matte-laminated covers, making it a popular choice for literary fiction, poetry collections, and specialty editions.
- Rigid box wrapping: luxury packaging wrapped in textured paper communicates premium quality and attention to detail.
- Presentation folders and corporate materials: the tactile surface gives business documents a professional, high-end feel.
- Invitations and stationery: textured paper is a classic choice for wedding invitations, event programs, and greeting cards.
Printing on Textured Paper
White or light-colored textured papers can be printed directly using offset or UV printing. The texture may cause slight variations in ink coverage across the surface, which is part of the aesthetic appeal. For darker textured papers, UV printing with a white ink base layer is recommended for accurate color reproduction. Foil stamping, embossing, and debossing all work well on textured paper and can further enhance its tactile qualities.
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