What is the difference between silk, gloss and uncoated paper?
Silk has a smooth surface with a soft sheen. Gloss is shiny and makes colours brighter. Uncoated has no coating at all, so it looks natural and can be written on. If you are not sure, choose silk: it is what most businesses pick.
What “coated” means
Silk and gloss are coated papers. A thin layer is applied to the paper when it is made, which seals the surface. Ink sits on top of the coating, so colours stay sharp and vivid. Uncoated paper has no such layer. Ink soaks in slightly, which gives a softer, flatter look.
Side by side
| Silk | Gloss | Uncoated | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surface | Smooth, low sheen | Shiny, reflective | Natural, slightly textured |
| Colour | Vibrant | Brightest and punchiest | Softer, more muted |
| Photos | Good | Best | Flatter |
| Reading lots of text | Comfortable | Can glare under lights | Comfortable |
| Writing on it | Possible with a ballpoint | Difficult | Easy |
| Feels | Balanced, professional | Bold, promotional | Tactile, natural |
Which suits what
- Silk: the all-rounder. Good for flyers, leaflets and brochures that mix photos and text.
- Gloss: food menus, sales flyers and anything led by photographs.
- Uncoated: appointment cards, loyalty cards, letterheads, and brands that want a natural or rustic look.
Things to know
- The same artwork looks different on each paper. Colours on uncoated will be less saturated than on silk or gloss. This is normal, not a fault.
- Coated papers can also be laminated for extra protection and a different feel. See what lamination is.
- Not every paper is offered on every product. The options are on each product page.