Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
In addition to considering basis weight or grammage, caliper, and sheet size, paper comes
in finishes that range from smooth to textured. Uncoated papers also come in an assort-
ment of finishes that are embossed into the paper as it is dried. These include linen, laid,
and cockle textures.
Coated papers are available in uncalendered (an unpolished coated surface), machine cal-
endered (a smoother finish), and supercalendared (highly polished) finishes—processes
that affect the smoothness or glossiness of the surface. These can range from a matte
or dull-coat finish to the high-gloss sheen of a cast-coated stock.
Grain refers to the alignment of the fibers on a given sheet of paper. The grain direc-
tion of a paper can affect folding accuracy and degree of stiffness. Paper tears and
folds more easily when it is torn or folded with the direction of the grain. Folding paper
against the grain can result in a rough or uneven fold. Business cards cut so that the
length of the card runs in the direction of the grain tend to feel flimsier than cards cut
with their length against the grain. It's best to check with your printer to determine the
best way to set up your document for optimum grain direction.
Grain direction
Grain long
Grain short
Paper is manufactured on rolls with the fibers aligned parallel to the edge of the roll. Sheets are cut from these rolls. When
fibers are parallel to the length of the sheet, the stock is described as grain long. When fibers run parallel to the width of a
sheet, the stock is grain short. Grain direction can affect printing stability, and long-grain sheets are generally preferred for
multicolored jobs. Printing press sizes can sometimes necessitate the use of short-grained paper, so it's best to check with
your printer before preparing your files.
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