Choosing the correct paper and finish for your brochures can play a large role in how your brochures feel when picked up and how they can represent your business.
Match Weight to Purpose
In the printing world, the weight of a sheet of paper is measured in gsm (grams per square metre). The weight of a single sheet of A5 handed out will be in the region of 90gsm to 115gsm. A multi-page brochure is best printed on paper of 130gsm to 170gsm for the inner pages. The covers of a brochure should be slightly heavier and in the region of 250gsm to 300gsm to give them the stability to fold properly.
Gloss or Silk Coated Stock
Both Gloss and Silk coatings will bring colours to life and ensure that any handling marks are kept to a minimum. Between the two finishes, Gloss produces the highest contrast and a very shiny finish, ideal for brochures containing lots of photographs. Silk on the other hand has a soft sheen to it and allows text to be read very easily, making it perfect for brochures that contain a lot of images and long pieces of copy.
When Uncoated Paper Works Better
For a more approachable or non-corporate brochure that will be distributed at events or handed out in shops, uncoated paper is a great option. It has a natural texture and feel which makes it ideal for certain businesses such as craft businesses, charities and consultancies. Also uncoated paper is very easy to write on making it perfect for use as a worksheet or order form within the brochure.
Matt or Gloss Laminate on the Cover
Matt or gloss laminate can be added to the cover to give it an extra premium touch and make it more durable. A gloss laminate will intensify colours and give a very slick finish to the brochure cover. A Matt laminate finish is a lot more subtle and does not show up finger prints as much, especially on brochures with large areas of dark colour.
When a Premium Finish Earns Its Cost
Spot UV: This finish applies a glossy raised coating to specific areas of the brochure. The coated area can be raised above the rest of the print and provides excellent contrast to the surrounding matt finish. Soft-touch laminate: This finish provides a velvety feel to the brochure cover. It’s a really unique finish that will surprise people when they pick up your brochure. Both of these finishes increase the unit cost of your brochures, so they’re best used for brochures where a strong first impression will lead to a sale. Always ask to see samples of finishes before you place an order for brochure printing.
For Brochure Printers Swindon, visit https://wheatleyprinters.co.uk/printing-services/marketing-materials/brochure-printers/swindon/.
Getting the decision right for your brochures before you print them can save you a lot of money and mean your finished brochure does what you need it to.
