Paper is a flexible product that is mostly created from wood pulp, often derived from softwood coniferous trees such as pine trees. Coniferous trees are fast-growing trees that are characterized as having cones and needles as compared to deciduous trees which have leaves that are shed during the autumn and winter seasons. Papers are part of our lives, as we often use paper in our everyday lives. Papers come in many different types, thicknesses, finishes, and sizes, therefore it can be a complicated process when it comes to selecting the right paper for your work or project. That is why today we will be looking into several different types of papers and their 1. Acid-free paper Acid-free paper is created using an alkaline production process that gets rid of the lignin from the wood pulp and treats the pulp solution with a mild base such as calcium bicarbonate, to produce a pH that is above 7. Acid-free paper is made to be used in cases where it is important to save the documents over long periods without aging, yellowing, or deteriorating. 2. Artist’s paper Artist’s paper is commonly used to create drawings, sketches, and paintings. The thickness of an artist’s paper may differ, depending on the inks being applied and desired use. For example, one version of artists’ paper is the thin tracing paper which is used to transfer a design or image by copying the details onto the tracing paper which sits over the master image. 3. Blotting paper is a paper variety that has high absorbency and can be used to remove excess liquids from objects or surfaces. This type of paper can be used to absorb excess ink, remove excess liquid from a microscope slide before being viewed, and even remove excess oil from a person’s skin. 4. Book paper As its name suggests, a book paper is the type of paper that is …generally used in printing and publishing books, such as the Bible and the Quran. 5. Bond paper This type of paper is generally stronger and more durable as compared to an average sheet of paper. Instead of being made from low-grade wood pulp, bond paper mostly comprises rag pulp. Bond paper is suitable for letterheads, typed reports, and envelopes. 6. Box covering and lining paper Box covering and lining paper are used to include an inner or outer paper layer to cardboard boxes for decorative or protective purposes. 7. Business card & business form paper These paper types are generally used in the creation of business cards or the printing of business forms. Card stock is prone to be made of thicker and more rigid paper that has a high-quality feel to it. 8. Copy and Copier paper Copy and Copier paper is generally used for printers, photocopiers, fax machines, and other general-purpose office and home uses. There are specialized types of copy and copier papers that are designed to be better suited for printing through either inkjet or laser printer technologies. 9. Gloss-coated paper Gloss paper is usually used for flyers and brochures as it has a high shine. The ink dries well on gloss-coated paper, so there is no need for a seal varnish as the ink does not rub off. 10. Greeting card paper Greeting card paper is a medium-weight cardstock paper that is used to make greeting cards or all types for holidays, birthdays, bereavement, graduations, and anniversaries. Cardstock is thicker than the type of paper that is used for printing but is thinner than cardboard. 11. Manilla paper Manilla paper is a paper variety that is made from semi-bleached wood fibers and was used to create file folders, envelopes, and manilla boards. Most of the brown envelopes that receive the name manilla envelopes are more likely created from less expensive recycled fibers. Genuine manilla paper is used for specialized applications like tea bags and filter papers. 12. Matt-coated paper Matt paper is the opposite to gloss as it is coated with a matt finish to give the paper that isn’t shiny a prevent glare. This type of paper is suitable for reports, flyers, and leaflets. 13. Printing paper Printing paper or printer paper is any form of paper that can be used for printing. Printing paper can be accomplished and includes copier paper, newsprint paper, book paper, magazine and catalog paper, and label paper. 14. Recycled paper Recycled papers are made from reused paper products. This type of paper is perfect for those who are trying to reduce their environmental impact. Recycled paper can be used for most documents such as reports, memo paper, and forms. 15. Shoe paper is a thin piece of paper that is generally used to wrap shoes while they are stored inside cardboard boxes during storage and shipment from the factory to the retail outlet or warehouse. Shoe paper is used to prevent scuffing or other damage to the shoe surfaces prior to purchasing. Now that you know these 15 common types of papers, it might be helpful for you next time when you are thinking about using a paper for your project.

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