How to Read a Paper Swatch Book

Often on this blog we  encourage designers and other readers to get out and look at paper. We want you to pick up and feel the papers you are choosing. It is important to see how a paper looks in different light and how it feels in your hand.

Part of this is looking through paper swatch books. At our shop we have tons of swatch books from many manufacturers. Every one showing little samples of hundreds of papers. They can be a lot of fun to flip through, each a little universe of joy for a paper geek.

However, these aren’t just playthings. Paper swatch books are serious business. There is a lot of information packed into those books, and knowing how to read a paper swatch book can save you time, money, and yes, even heartache. Below are a few key things to keep in mind when reading a swatch book.

1. Mind the Date

What can be more disheartening then finding a paper you love and know would be perfect to print on, only to later discover that it has been discontinued. We know this pain only too well. That is why we feel the 1st bit of information to look for on a paper swatch book is the date.

Often this is printed on the back of a book in small type. This isn’t always the case, some manufacturers decide on putting that date in different places, but make sure you find it. Not doing so could mean wasted time and tears.

2.  Check Sizes

Some papers are only available in large parent-size sheets like 26″ x 40″.  This may mean that a paper has to be ordered and then cut to size by a reseller or print shop. This can add costs, time, or both to a project. It will be helpful to keep this information in your mind as you plan a print project.

3. Different Quantities for Different Weights

One thing that can confuse even experienced designers is that paper in the printing industry is sold by weight not quantity. Thicker, heavier papers are available in smaller quantities. This is important to keep in mind when you plan a project.

For example, an #80 Text may come in cartons of 1000 sheets, but an #80 cover may be available in cartons of 500 sheets. If you are printing a project that includes for example 900 matching text and cover pieces that is an easy thing to resolve. Obviously, you  order 1 carton of text and 2 cartons of cover stock.

However, this gets trickier the more you mix and match weights.

For example, if you decide you want a #130 cover to pair with a #60 text sheet you may run into more issues. That #60 text may be sold in cartons of 1000 sheets, but the #130 cover may only be available in cartons of 300. So, that means more planning to avoid waste and cost overruns.

4. Plan for Envelopes

When you hold a paper swatch book and your eyes light up with possibilities, it is important to remember your priorities and deadlines. This is especially true if you need matching envelopes. Generally speaking you should be able to get matching envelopes for any paper you see in a swatch book.

The problem is the amount of time it might take to get those envelopes. If you’re ordering a common paper like plain or natural white, then it is likely envelopes can be delivered quickly. If however, you are ordering something like Iridescent Starburst Mango colored paper, then it is likely that your envelopes will need to be custom manufactured.

That means you will have to add more time into your schedule.

5. Confirm Quantities

Even though your swatch book may be up to date, it is always a good idea to confirm the information on it. This can mean turning to a manufacturer’s website, or calling up your paper reseller to confirm they have what you want in stock.

Don’t forget that paper is a manufactured product and as such quantities may dip at times. If you don’t plan ahead you may find yourself forced to wait for the paper you want to become available. You might literally have to wait for some of it to be made.

Of course, there is a lot more information packed into a paper swatch book. Perhaps we will revisit some of this in a future post. By far though the best advice we can give is for you to talk with your printer early and often. Take advantage of their knowledge and relationships with paper manufacturers and resellers. They should be able to guide you to the perfect paper for your project.

And if they can’t? Then by all means give us a call!

cutpasteandprint Printing, graphic design, binding, and promotional product specialists in Huntingdon Valley, PA. We proudly serve the Bucks and Montgomery County areas with superior quality, great customer service, and a commitment to getting you and your the best possible printed materials. Our services include: Digital Printing, Offset Printing, Graphic Design, Promotional Items, Bindery, and Copying.