Paper Stock Guide: Understanding Paper Types for Printing
Why Paper Choice Matters
Paper is one of the most important parts of any printed product.
The same design can feel completely different depending on the paper you choose.
This affects how customers perceive your brand, your professionalism, and even your pricing.
—What Does Paper Weight Mean?
Paper weight refers to thickness and durability—but it can be confusing because not all “80lb” papers are the same.
That’s because there are two main categories:
- Book Paper (text weight)
- Cover Paper (cardstock)
Book vs Cover Paper (Simple Explanation)
Book Paper (Text Weight)
Book paper is thinner, lighter, and more flexible.
- Feels like magazine or notebook paper
- Used for: flyers, brochures, inside pages of booklets
Cover Paper (Cardstock)
Cover stock is thicker, more rigid, and more durable.
- Feels like business card material
- Used for: business cards, postcards, booklet covers
IMPORTANT: 80lb Book vs 80lb Cover (Not the Same)
This is one of the most misunderstood areas in printing.
80lb Book and 80lb Cover are completely different materials.
- 80lb Book: lightweight, flexible (used for inside pages)
- 80lb Cover: thick, rigid cardstock (used for covers)
Even though both say “80lb,” cover stock is significantly thicker.
—How This Applies to Real Products (Booklets Example)
For example, when printing booklets or catalogs:
- Inside pages → typically 80lb or 100lb Book
- Cover page → typically 80lb or 100lb Cover
This creates a professional feel:
- Flexible pages inside
- Strong, durable cover outside
This is a standard setup for high-quality brochures and booklet printing.
—How Cover Stock Translates to “PT” Thickness
Cover paper is often measured in points (pt), especially for thicker materials.
Here’s a simple way to understand it:
- 80lb Cover ≈ around 8pt–10pt
- 100lb Cover ≈ around 10pt–12pt
- 14pt Cover = thick cardstock (standard business cards)
- 16pt Cover = premium thick cardstock
This is why:
- 14pt and 16pt feel much thicker than standard cover stock
- They are commonly used for business cards
Common Paper Types We Use
70lb Book (Letterheads)
- Lightweight, easy to write on
- Professional feel
- Used for letterheads and documents
100lb Book (Flyers & Brochures)
- Thicker than standard paper
- Flexible but durable
- Ideal for marketing materials
14pt / 16pt Cover (Business Cards)
- Very thick and durable
- Creates strong first impression
- Standard for premium business cards
Specialty: Waterproof Paper (Endurace)
Endurace is a synthetic material designed for extreme durability.
- Waterproof
- Tear-resistant
- Long-lasting
Perfect for:
- Menus
- Outdoor materials
- High-use environments
How to Choose the Right Paper
- Professional documents: 70lb book
- Marketing materials: 100lb book
- Booklets: book inside + cover outside
- Premium cards: 14pt or 16pt cover
- Durability needed: synthetic materials
Why Paper Choice Affects Your Brand
Customers may not know paper specs—but they feel the difference.
Better materials create stronger impressions and higher perceived value.
—How HanmiPrint Helps
HanmiPrint™ helps you choose the right materials for your specific project.
We guide you through paper types, finishes, and thickness to ensure the best result.
—Final Thoughts
Paper is not just a detail—it’s part of your brand experience.
Understanding the difference between book and cover stock—and choosing the right thickness—can make a major impact on how your business is perceived.
Explore print products and paper options:
