Premium quality paper is an important factor in the world of fine art prints, and using the right paper can really make a work of art shine.
Every paper has a distinct aesthetic that sets it apart. Some papers are thick and heavily textured, with a matte finish. At the other end of the spectrum we find glossy, high-sheen papers. Different finishes and textures will greatly impact the final look of an artwork.
Paper choice becomes a bigger deal as the value of the artwork increases. For reproductions of legal, historical, or significant value, an archival paper should be used. Archival paper is a particularly durable, 100% cotton pulp paper that is free of acid, lignin and brighteners (used to make paper more white). For the types of art prints most of us hang at home, wood pulp papers also deliver excellent results with a smaller price tag.
Coated paper
As the name suggests, coated paper has an agent added to its surface to improve brightness and smoothness. Once fully processed, the coating fills in the tiny gaps between the fibers to deliver the smooth, flat surface the paper is known for.
Coated papers have some shine to it. There is a lot of variation to this aspect of the paper, ranging from super glossy stocks to those with a subtle satin and matte finish. Coated papers don’t have a lot of texture and are typically quite smooth. This type of paper delivers prints with vibrant color as the coating restricts how the paper absorbs ink.
Uncoated paper
Uncoated paper is a more natural product. It has no coating, and is generally rougher with no shine. There is a great deal of choice when it comes to texture. Because of the absorbent nature of this paper, colors will be more muted compared to coated stocks.
Alpha Fauna papers
At Alpha Fauna, we use 2 types of paper for our art prints:
Premium Lustre Paper 240gsm
An outstanding coated paper especially for photographic works, and artworks with a more vibrant color palette. It has a subtle pearl-like texture and satin finish.
Premium Fine Art Paper 200gsm
A medium-weight, uncoated paper with a very subtle texture. It has a smooth, matte finish and prints beautifully with water-based inks. This paper is made of wood pulp. It is our paper of choice for works featuring typographic details.
