Prestige Paper
Paper & Cardstock Guides
Clear, practical advice on GSM, finishes, and stock — so you order the right paper first time.
Written for print buyers, schools, and creatives across the UK. Use these guides alongside our product catalogue and FAQ when you're ready to order.
Popular topics
Start with the questions buyers ask most — paper weight, thickness, coating, and finish.
GSM & paper weight
Understand grams per square metre and which weights suit office print, flyers, or heavyweight card.
Read guideWeight vs thickness
Why two sheets at the same GSM can feel different — and how microns and caliper fit in.
Read guideCoated vs uncoated
Choose the right surface for ink holdout, colour pop, and writeability.
Read guideMatte vs glossy
Compare finishes for photos, marketing materials, and premium stationery.
Read guideAll guides
Every Prestige Paper technical guide in one place — from GSM basics to recycled vs virgin fibre.
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Guide
Understanding Paper Weights: A Complete GSM Guide
When you’re choosing paper for printing, one term always pops up: GSM. Whether you’re ordering flyers, brochures, business cards, or books, GSM is the number you’ll see—but what does it actually mean, and why does it matter? This guide breaks down everything you need to know about paper weights and GSM, so you can confidently choose the right stock for your project.
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Guide
Matte vs Glossy: Choosing the Right Paper Finish
When it comes to printing, the finish you choose is just as important as the paper weight. Two of the most popular options are matte and glossy paper—but which one should you pick? The right finish can completely change the look, feel, and impact of your printed materials.
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Tips
5 Common Paper Selection Mistakes to Avoid
When it comes to printing, paper choice can make or break your project. The wrong selection can lead to dull colours, flimsy feel, or even wasted money. To help you avoid common pitfalls, here are five mistakes people often make when choosing paper—plus tips to get it right.
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Guide
Coated vs Uncoated Paper: Which Should You Choose?
When planning a print project, you’ll often face the choice between coated and uncoated paper. At first glance, the difference might seem subtle—but the finish you pick can completely change the look, feel, and impact of your materials. So, which is right for you? Let’s break it down.
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Guide
Recycled Paper vs Virgin Paper: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to choosing paper, sustainability is a bigger factor than ever. One of the biggest decisions is whether to use recycled paper or virgin paper. Both have their place, but they offer different qualities, costs, and environmental benefits.
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Guide
Paper Weight vs Paper Thickness: Why They’re Not the Same
If you’ve ever ordered print materials, you’ve probably seen terms like GSM (grams per square metre) and microns or caliper used to describe paper. Many people assume weight and thickness are interchangeable—but they’re not. Understanding the difference can help you choose paper that not only looks right but also feels right for your project.
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Guides
Choosing the Right Paper Weight
A quick guide to GSM and when to use different paper weights.
Ready to choose your stock?
Browse A4, A3, cardstock, and specialty papers — or ask us about bulk pricing.