Selecting the Perfect Paper for Your Brochure Masterpiece

Whether you're launching a new business, updating loyal customers about a new product or service, reaching out to new clients in different areas, or even organizing community events and school projects, a well-designed brochure can be a powerful tool. The challenge often lies in choosing the right type of paper or cardstock to bring your message to life. If you've ever found yourself pondering, "What paper should I use for brochures?", you're in the right place. We've simplified the process for you, distilling it down to four key factors to consider when creating your own brochure.

Paper weight" is a measure of the density and thickness of paper, traditionally expressed in pounds (lbs) or grams per square meter (gsm). It influences the paper's feel, durability, and suitability for various printing purposes. Here are the key differences between paper and card stock.

After choosing the thickness of your brochure's paper, the next step is to select the right finish, which refers to the texture and appearance of the paper's surface. Beyond the commonly used glossy and matte finishes, there are several other options to consider, each offering a distinct look and feel. These include metallic and sparkle finishes, gloss finishes and matte finishes, and linen finishes. Each of these finishes can significantly influence the brochure's aesthetic and how your message is perceived.

Glossy

Gloss paper and cardstock has been coated with a compound to give it a smooth, shinny "glossy" appearance that enhances color vibrancy and is great for image-heavy brochures.

Matte

Matte finishes are also coated but without luster or gloss. Giving it an untreated look which offers a more subdued, elegant look with minimal glare, ideal for text-heavy designs.

Metallic

Metallic and sparkle finishes have a shimmering, eye-catching quality, perfect for high-impact marketing materials and invitations.

Linen

Linen finishes bring a touch of sophistication with a subtle, woven texture, adding a tactile dimension to your brochures.

The color of your brochure is a pivotal element, a reflection of your message or theme. While business brochures opt for classic white for its professional and clean appearance, don't hesitate to experiment with vibrant hues and textures for a special event or organization brochure. The use of color can be a powerful tool in catching someone's attention. Bright, bold colors can make your material stand out, while softer tones might align better with a subtle, sophisticated approach. Incorporating your brand's color scheme can enhance recognition and association with your clients. For instance, an eco-friendly organization might choose recycled brown Kraft or earthy green tones to echo its ethos. With the abundance of promotional content available, employing a bit of creativity in your color choice can significantly enhance the impact of your brochure.

In the realm of brochure creation, the size of the paper plays a crucial role in how your information is presented and perceived. At JAM Paper, three popular paper sizes are perfect for brochure creation: Letter, Legal, and Tabloid. Each of these sizes offers different benefits and constraints, making it essential to choose the one that best aligns with the purpose and content of your brochure.

Letter (8.5″ x 11″): This size is the most popular and is often used for "tri-fold" brochures. Its dimensions make it easy to mail and fit in most brochure racks.
Legal (8.5″ x 14″): Similar to the Letter size but with an extra 3 inches in length, the Legal size is also used for "tri-fold" brochures, offering more space for content.
Tabloid (11″ x 17″): This larger format is typically utilized for half-fold brochures or menus, providing ample space for more extensive information or larger graphics​

Now that you have a better understanding of the basics, you can start to create your impressive brochure. Good luck! Head to JAM Paper to brose our large paper and card stock selection!