Natural Paper

Natural paper is an uncoated paper with a natural, untreated surface. It usually has a firm and robust feel, giving printed materials a pleasant tactile quality and an authentic, lively character. Because of its versatile properties, natural paper is one of the most commonly used materials in the printing industry.

General information about natural paper

The term natural paper generally refers to paper that is used largely in the condition in which it comes from the paper machine. It is not coated, although it may be smoothed or treated with selected additives to improve its printing performance.

Natural papers are also often referred to as standard papers, universal papers, or multifunction papers. In everyday use, this usually includes uncoated copy paper and laser printer paper. In the printing industry, however, uncoated papers with a higher paper weight are also considered natural papers. These are often used for products such as greeting cards, postcards, stationery, invitations, and business cards.

Further information

There is no single quality standard for natural paper. Copiers and laser printers can usually handle a relatively wide range of paper qualities. Inkjet printers, however, are more sensitive to the surface and absorbency of the paper. If low-quality natural paper is used, the ink may spread, bleed into the sheet, or even become visible on the reverse side.

Color printers, high-performance printing systems, and printers used for double-sided printing place higher demands on paper quality, dimensional stability, and surface strength. This quality is largely determined by the raw materials used in production. The main raw material for paper is pulp, which is obtained from wood. Since pulp production is complex and cost-intensive, paper fibers are often combined with binders and fillers. These additives influence the opacity, smoothness, printability, and strength of the paper.

The higher the proportion of high-quality pulp, the more stable the paper usually is. A higher pulp content can improve running properties in printing machines, reduce curling, and support a cleaner