Businesses still lean on custom-printed marketing materials to spread the word about their services—and for good reason. Around 82% of consumers use print ads to decide what to buy.
That’s why it’s so important for companies, big or small, to make their print materials stand out. A great print design comes down to the right combination of eye-catching visuals and quality materials.
Now, the world of printing is chock-full of options, from papers to ink and everything in between. If you’re new to this, it can feel overwhelming to figure out where to start.
But don’t worry—our Reno print shop is here to help you make the best choices. Join us as we break down everything you need to know about picking the right printing materials for your project.
Table of Content
Understanding Print Materials
How to Choose Materials for Specific Projects
Understanding Print Materials
Paper and Cardstock Options
Most everyday print materials, like the ones you hand out at events or share with customers, are printed on either paper or cardstock.
Bond and Offset Paper
Bond paper is your everyday office paper—lightweight, smooth, and perfect for documents, forms, and letterheads. It’s cost-effective and easy to print on.
Offset paper is a bit heavier and sturdier, typically used for things like stationery or newsletters.
Glossy and Matte Paper
With its shiny, reflective finish, glossy paper is a solid choice for brochures, flyers, and photo prints- anything where you want a vibrant, polished look.
Matte paper, on the other hand, has a smooth, non-shiny finish. It is suited to text-heavy prints because it reduces glare and is easier to view under bright lights.
Cardstock
Cardstock is thicker, sturdier, and more resistant to handling than regular paper. You’ll see it used for business cards, invitations, postcards, and packaging. Cardstock is endlessly customizable and comes in a wide selection of weights, textures, and finishes.
Specialty Printing Materials
If you want something that goes beyond the basics, opt for specialty print marketing materials.
Vinyl and Banners
Vinyl can easily withstand conditions like rain, wind, and sunlight, which makes it best for events, advertisements, or any display that needs to last in outdoor conditions. It’s also flexible and easy to customize.
Fabric Printing
Fabric is the way to go for projects like custom apparel, flags, or soft signage. It has a unique tactile quality and is commonly used for trade shows, branded clothing, or decorative banners. It’s also lightweight, easy to transport, and adds a distinctive touch to your project.
Recycled and Eco-Friendly Materials
As sustainability becomes more important, many businesses are turning to recycled or eco-friendly materials for their print projects. Ask your Reno printing services provider if they offer eco-friendly options like recycled paper, soy-based inks, or FSC-certified materials.
How to Choose Materials for Specific Projects
Your choice of printed material will vary based on the marketing piece you’re working on. Here’s a guide to selecting the best ones for your needs.
Marketing Collateral
For flyers, brochures, and posters, your choice of material will depend on the desired impact and your budget.
- Flyers: Lightweight paper, such as 80–100 GSM, works well for large-scale distribution and keeps costs low. For a more premium feel, upgrade to glossy or matte paper.
- Brochures: Midweight coated paper (120–170 GSM) strikes the best balance between visual appeal and durability. Choose matte paper for text-heavy brochures and glossy finishes for image-focused designs.
- Posters: Use a heavier material with a GSM above 200 to prevent tearing.
Corporate and Professional Documents
With business reports and letterheads, you’ll want to convey professionalism and confidence.
- Letterheads: Bond or offset paper with a clean, smooth texture works best, especially in neutral tones.
- Reports and Presentations: A heavier matte paper lends credibility and sophistication. For covers, consider cardstock with a soft-touch finish.
- Business Cards: Opt for thick cardstock (300 GSM or higher) with a matte or textured finish.
Creative and Custom Projects
If you’re creating something unique, such as art prints, displays, or custom packages, select materials that enhance and reflect the design’s character.
- Invitations and Cards: Use specialty cardstock with embossed textures, metallic accents, or die-cut edges to create a custom, offbeat look.
- Custom Packaging: Consider kraft paper for a rustic feel or glossy cardstock for a sleek, modern aesthetic.
Art Prints or Displays: High-quality matte paper or fabric printing offers a premium canvas for artistic designs.
Cost Considerations and Budgeting
Print marketing materials often get labeled as pricey, but that’s not always true. With smart choices and the right order size, you can stick to your budget without compromising on quality or style.
Be sure to prioritize where it matters most. For example:
- Use premium materials like thick cardstock or specialty finishes for high-impact items, such as business cards or packaging.
- Opt for standard materials like lightweight paper for large-scale distribution items like flyers or posters to keep costs down.
- Match the material to the project’s purpose. There’s no need for heavy paper on disposable items or budget flyers printed on premium stock.
Another way to save is by ordering in bulk. Large print runs often come with significant cost-per-unit discounts, so consider your long-term needs before placing multiple smaller orders.
Need Printed Marketing Materials? Talk to Digiprint!
Selecting the right printing materials requires some thought and planning, but the payoff is worth it when your finished product connects with your audience. By keeping your project’s purpose in mind and weighing the options for paper, size, finishes, and printing methods, you can make smart, informed decisions that deliver great results.
At Digiprint, we’ve helped countless local businesses create standout marketing materials that make an impact. If you’re unsure about which print materials will work best for your project, our team is here to help. Reach out to us anytime, and we’ll make sure you get the perfect solution for your needs!
Contact us today.
