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Inkjet paper
Designed for inkjet printers, including photo, glossy and specialist media such as business and greetings cards.
Langstane paper guide
How to choose the right paper
From paper type and size to weight and finish, the right choice can make a real difference to the final result.
This practical guide explains the options so you can choose paper with confidence—and make sure it works with your printer.
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Start with the job
Paper types
Different jobs require different papers. These are the most commonly used options.
Laser paper
Best suited to laser printers and commonly used for documents, invoices, labels and everyday office printing.
Matte paper
A reliable everyday choice. Its smooth, non-gloss finish keeps text crisp and allows ink to dry quickly.
Bright white paper
A smoother, higher-quality option for professional documents and double-sided printing where clarity matters.
Glossy paper
A coated surface that enhances colour and fine detail, making it particularly suitable for images and photographs.
Card stock
Thicker and more durable than standard paper—ideal for cards, postcards, invitations and long-lasting items.
Getting the format right
Paper sizes
The A range is the most widely used paper-size system, covering everything from everyday office printing to large-format posters.
| Size | Dimensions (mm) | Dimensions (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | 594 × 841 | 23.4 × 33.1 |
| A2 | 420 × 594 | 16.5 × 23.4 |
| A3 | 297 × 420 | 11.7 × 16.5 |
| A4 | 210 × 297 | 8.3 × 11.7 |
| A5 | 148 × 210 | 5.8 × 8.3 |
| A6 | 105 × 148 | 4.1 × 5.8 |
The everyday standard
Suitable for most office documents and general printing tasks.
More room for impact
Ideal for presentations, drawings and larger visual material.
Other A sizes
A5 and A6 suit handouts; A2 and A1 are commonly used for posters and displays.
Made for trimming
Slightly larger than standard A sizes to provide space for bleed and commercial-print finishing.
Not sure what you need?
Find the right paper for your job
Browse our full range of paper and card, with options for everyday office use, presentations, high-quality colour work and commercial print.
View paperUnderstanding quality
Weight and whiteness
Paper weight
Choose weight for the purpose
GSM stands for grams per square metre and measures the weight of paper. A higher GSM generally means a heavier, more substantial sheet.
- 75–80 gsm Everyday documents and general office use
- 100+ gsm Reports, presentations and important documents
- 150+ gsm High-impact and full-colour printed material
Paper whiteness
Higher numbers mean whiter paper
CIE is a measure of paper whiteness based on the light reflected from its surface. A higher CIE number indicates a whiter sheet.
Whiter paper increases the contrast between paper and ink, making documents easier to read.
For high-quality black-and-white printing, look for at least 150 CIE.
Ready to compare your options?Browse paper by weight and finish
A more responsible choice
Recycled office paper
Our recycled-paper range uses post-consumer waste from offices and homes. Compared with many virgin papers, its manufacture can use less water and energy and produce fewer carbon emissions.
Balancing recycled papers with products from legal and sustainably managed sources helps minimise environmental impact while maintaining quality and value.
Environmental labelling
Look for recognised marks when comparing paper products.
Need a little more help?
Still unsure which paper you need?
Our team can help you match paper type, weight and finish to your printer and the job you are producing.
Langstane Advice & Guides · www.langstane.co.uk/choose-the-right-paper
