The Features and Applications of Coated Paper

Introduction

Coated paper is a popular choice for printing thanks to its special properties. It’s widely used in both packaging and publishing industries. But what exactly makes coated paper so useful? In this article, we’ll break down its key features so you can better understand why it’s such a staple in commercial printing.

What Is Coated Paper?

Before diving into the details, let’s quickly define what coated paper is. Also known as art paper or coated art paper, this type of paper has a specially treated surface. A coating is applied to the base paper, making it smoother and more suitable for high-quality printing.

Key Features of Coated Paper

Smooth Surface

One of the standout features of coated paper is its smooth finish. While regular paper has natural gaps between fibers (typically 3 to 5 microns), coated paper is made using long-fiber chemical pulp, which reduces the gap rate to about 15–20%. Then, a coating with ultra-fine particles (about 0.2 to 0.5 microns) is applied to fill in the surface. On top of that, the paper is supercalendered to enhance its smoothness even more. The final product has a surface smoothness typically ranging from 600 to 1000 seconds (a technical measure of how smooth the surface is).

Wide Range of Options

Coated paper comes in various forms to suit different needs. Based on the number of coatings, it can be single-sided or double-sided. Depending on the finish, it can be glossy (shiny) or matte (dull). It also comes in a wide range of weights—common options include 80gsm, 90gsm, 100gsm, 115gsm, 120gsm, 128gsm, 135gsm, 150gsm, 157gsm, 170gsm, 180gsm, 200gsm, and 250gsm—giving buyers plenty of flexibility.

Versatile Applications

Thanks to its fine surface and vibrant finish, coated paper is commonly used for printing books, magazines, posters, brochures, calendars, and other visual materials. Its clean, professional appearance makes it ideal for packaging and promotional items that need to catch the customer’s eye. It’s also a great choice for photo books or art prints, where color accuracy and detail matter. In office settings, it’s frequently used for documents, presentations, and handouts—especially when producing materials in bulk, where both quality and cost-effectiveness are important.

Conclusion

So, does coated paper sound like the right choice for your needs? If you’re looking to purchase high-quality coated paper in bulk, Golden Paper is here to help. As a professional paper manufacturer, we provide reliable and consistent coated paper and other printing paper options—helping you boost your brand and grow your business.