Tip of the Week - 07.27.09 - Coating Can Be Cheaper Than Paper
Like the look of a matte finish stock but want to save a few bucks and improve the quality? Instead of printing on matte paper, choose to print on a gloss paper and flood it with satin or soft-touch aqueous coating. You'll get better-looking results (aqueous coating lays better on the harder surface that gloss coated paper offers) at a lower cost (gloss stock is cheaper than matte or dull stock) plus all the protection that aqueous coating offers.
One note of caution: for some paper brands, gloss stock is generally just a bit thinner than matte stock at the same basis weight which can lead to higher postage costs on folded self-mailers or a lighter-than-expected feel. Ask your print solutions provider to assist if you are unsure.