Many entrepreneurs assume that paper is just paper. However, when trying to print sheets with a logo on a home office printer, the reality can be disappointing. The key to success lies not only in the design but also in the appropriate substrate – preprinted offset paper.
Choosing the right material is half the battle. If you're just starting out, check out our guide on what letterhead is and why it's worth having . Also, remember the legal requirements, which we discuss in the article on what company information is required on letterhead . And when you're ready to start designing, check out our step-by-step guide on how to make letterhead .
What exactly is preprint paper?
Preprint paper is a specialized type of offset paper that has undergone additional technological processes. Its main characteristics are reduced moisture content and resistance to the high temperatures found inside laser printers. This ensures that the sheet, once printed in a professional printing house (where your logo is applied), doesn't warp when printed in the office.Preprint 90g vs regular copier paper
Basic paper purchased in supermarkets in reams of 500 sheets is designed for quick, work-sized prints. Using it for letterhead carries several risks:| Characteristic | Regular copy paper | Offset Preprint (OpenPrint) |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Loose, very dusty. | Smooth, closed surface. |
| Heat reaction | It may wave and "swell". | Maintains perfect flatness. |
| White | Standard, sometimes grey/yellow. | High whiteness, better contrast. |
When is it worth investing in 120g?
The market standard is 90g. It's optimal for invoices and everyday correspondence. However, if your brand is positioning itself in the premium segment, it's worth considering 120g preprint paper. It's noticeably stiffer, less transparent, and has a more luxurious feel upon first contact. It's an excellent choice for law firms, developers, and marketing agencies.Security for your office printer
Using a professional preprint substrate protects office equipment. Regular copier paper can leave residue on printer rollers after offset printing, leading to more frequent servicing and soiling of subsequent prints. Preprinting eliminates this problem because the offset ink is stable on it and doesn't "melt" under the influence of laser curing temperatures.Choosing the right material is half the battle. If you're just starting out, check out our guide on what letterhead is and why it's worth having . Also, remember the legal requirements, which we discuss in the article on what company information is required on letterhead . And when you're ready to start designing, check out our step-by-step guide on how to make letterhead .