Picture printing paper, also known as art paper or picture printing board, is a specially coated paper that is mainly used for high-quality printed products. Picture printing paper is characterised by several special properties that make it ideal for reproducing images and graphics.
The most striking feature of art paper is its coating. This usually consists of a combination of pigments such as kaolin, calcium carbonate or titanium dioxide and binding agents such as latex or starch. The coating can be on one or both sides and gives the paper a smooth and even surface. This coating enables precise colour acceptance and ensures sharp and clear printed images.
Another important characteristic of picture printing paper is the gloss level. A distinction is made between high-gloss (glossy), semi-gloss (semi-gloss or silk) and matt. High-gloss paper reflects the light strongly and makes colours appear particularly strong and rich in contrast. Semi-gloss paper offers a compromise between gloss and legibility, while matt paper has a non-reflective surface and is therefore particularly suitable for texts, as the colours appear less intense.
The weight and thickness of the paper are also important. Picture printing paper is available in different grammages, which are usually between 90 g/m² and 350 g/m². Heavier papers are thicker and stiffer and are therefore particularly suitable for book covers, postcards or high-quality brochures. The dense coating and higher weight also give the paper a high opacity, i.e. it is less translucent and therefore more suitable for double-sided printing.
Thanks to its smooth and even surface, image printing paper can absorb the printing ink precisely, resulting in sharp and clear printed images. It is particularly suitable for offset printing, digital printing and other high-resolution printing processes. The coating prevents the ink from penetrating the paper so that it remains on the surface and ensures high colour intensity and sharpness.
The feel of art paper varies depending on the gloss level. High-gloss papers feel smooth and almost three-dimensional, while matt papers have a more velvety texture. These different textures offer different experiences that can be selected depending on the intended use and personal preferences.
Picture printing paper is used in a wide range of applications. These include high-quality magazines and catalogues, illustrated books and art books, brochures and leaflets, flyers and posters as well as business cards and postcards. Its ability to reproduce colours vividly and accurately makes it the first choice for print products where high image quality is important.
Many manufacturers now also offer environmentally friendly versions of picture printing paper. These are made from recycled material or are produced using sustainable production methods. Such papers often carry environmental certificates such as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification), which guarantee sustainable forestry and environmentally friendly manufacturing processes.
In summary, image printing papers are special printing papers that are particularly suitable for high-quality print products due to their coated surface and their ability to reproduce colours precisely.
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