Paper types – infinite opportunities from one source
If you were to estimate the number of paper types you encounter in a day, you would probably lose count. From toilet paper and paper tissues to newspapers, packages, paperbacks and magazines – wherever you are or whatever you do, paper is one of the most frequent everyday items. In Sweden, approximately 11 million tonnes of paper is manufactured each year.
Different types of paper
Paper is produced both from recovered paper and fresh fibre directly from the forest. Some common types of paper are:
1
Graphical paper
Graphical paper is produced in a number of qualities and is primarily used for magazines, catalogues, and direct mail. There are potentially endless opportunities in this range, depending on the impression you want. A thick “magalogue” with a luxurious feel, or a slim publication that makes that characteristic rustling sound when you turn the pages? A matte paper for optimised readability, or a glossy surface for that crisp look? In Holmen's range of graphical papers, you can be sure to find a paper quality perfectly fit for purpose – whatever you are looking for.
2
Newsprint
Mainly made from recycled paper, newsprint paper is low-cost and strong enough to endure high-speed rolling offset printing presses. Holmen makes newsprint paper from fresh fibre and is renowned for a particular product: the pink paper that is used for the financial pages in newspapers all over the world.
3
Tissue
Just as the name says, tissue is used when a soft feel is required as in napkins, paper towels, and toilet paper. It has very good absorption and is produced from either recovered paper or fresh fibre.
4
Fine paper
Great archiving properties make fine paper suitable for copy paper, art paper, envelopes, and forms – anything that has to last for a long time without any degrading of printing or quality. Fine paper can be made matte or glossy and is available in various colours.
5
Flexible packaging paper
Naturally, strength is one of the most prominent characteristics of flexible packaging paper. Sacks, bags and wrapping paper need to withstand tear and be able to hold heavy weights. Flexible packaging papers can be produced from both hardwood, softwood, and recovered paper.
6
Book paper
A nice typeface and good print quality give high readability – but the decisive factor for an excellent book reading experience is the paper quality. Our book paper is made from fresh fibre and has a smooth, clean surface specially developed to promote outstanding readability. Another benefit is the neutral CO2 footprint; this environmentally-friendly aspect along with the exceptional printing qualities is well-sought after by publishing companies. Read more about our book paper qualities here.
7
Packaging paperboard
The second most common product made from paper or paperboard is packaging. As one of the most advanced paper products, packaging paperboard can be shaped to any form and treated to hold the most sensitive foods or liquids. To keep the container waterproof and protect the content, milk and juice containers are supplied with a thin polyethylene film.
8
Cardboard
Cardboard, or containerboard, was invented in 1871 and is one the most versatile packaging materials in the world. The excellent strength is a result of the composition of the material; a strong and flat paper (liner) is glued onto fluting (corrugated paper), giving the construction robustness and stability. Cardboard can be made from both fresh fibre and recovered fibre. Please visit our packaging papers section to learn more about our containerboard products.
9
Specialty papers
There are a number of different specialty paper types, each one with its own tailored characteristic made specifically for a special purpose; money (bills), security papers, tea bags, labels, and grease-resistant paper are just a few examples.