Business Cards & Stationery Paper Stock & Finishes 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What does 'paper weight' (pt) measure in business card stock?
- Thickness of the paper in points (Correct answer)
- Weight per ream in pounds
- Density of the paper fibers
- Opacity of the sheet
Correct answer: Thickness of the paper in points
Paper weight in points (pt) measures the physical thickness of a card stock, with higher pt numbers indicating thicker, more premium cards.
Question 2: Which paper stock weight is considered standard for most business cards in the US?
- 14 pt (Correct answer)
- 8 pt
- 20 pt
- 10 pt
Correct answer: 14 pt
14 pt card stock is the most common standard weight for US business cards, offering a good balance of rigidity and printability.
Question 3: What is 'linen' paper stock commonly used for in stationery?
- Letterhead and note cards seeking a textured, professional look (Correct answer)
- Waterproof business cards
- Glossy photo printing
- High-volume digital printing
Correct answer: Letterhead and note cards seeking a textured, professional look
Linen stock features a subtle woven texture that conveys elegance and professionalism, making it popular for letterhead and correspondence.
Question 4: What does 'uncoated' paper stock mean for business cards?
- Paper without any surface coating, allowing ink to absorb into fibers (Correct answer)
- Paper that is not laminated after printing
- Paper without a glossy finish only
- Recycled paper without chemical treatment
Correct answer: Paper without any surface coating, allowing ink to absorb into fibers
Uncoated stock has no surface coating, so ink absorbs into the paper fibers, producing softer colors and a natural, tactile feel.
Question 5: What is 'cotton paper' (rag paper) known for in premium stationery?
- Exceptional durability, texture, and prestige feel (Correct answer)
- Low cost and easy printability
- Water resistance and lamination compatibility
- Bright white color reproduction
Correct answer: Exceptional durability, texture, and prestige feel
Cotton paper, made from cotton fibers rather than wood pulp, offers superior durability, a luxurious texture, and a prestigious feel for high-end stationery.
Question 6: What is 'pearl' or 'pearlescent' paper commonly used for in business card design?
- Creating an iridescent, shimmer effect for luxury cards (Correct answer)
- Waterproofing standard card stock
- Enabling double-sided printing
- Reducing printing costs on premium stock
Correct answer: Creating an iridescent, shimmer effect for luxury cards
Pearlescent paper contains metallic or mica particles that create a shimmering, iridescent effect, perfect for luxury and fashion-industry business cards.
Business Cards & Stationery Paper Stock & Finishes 1
What does 'paper weight' (pt) measure in business card stock?