Choosing Between Smooth and Textured Paper

Short Summary

This article explains choosing between smooth and textured paper for Stackhouse customers and helps you choose the right next step before ordering or contacting support.

Quick Answer

Smooth papers suit crisp detail, photography, and clean gradients, while textured papers add tactile depth for many fine art and reproduction pieces.

Before You Begin

• Consider the artwork type, desired texture, finish, and display conditions.
• Paper and finish can affect perceived contrast, color, and detail.
• Order samples or contact support if material choice is critical.

How It Works

Review the print size guide. Review the crop tool guide.

Step 1: Start with the final use

Decide whether the print will be framed, sold, shipped, mounted, displayed, or stored.

Step 2: Choose the product family

Pick the paper, photo, canvas, mounted, packaged, or scanning workflow that fits the project.

Step 3: Review size, crop, and border

Make sure the image fits the selected size and presentation style.

Step 4: Contact support if unsure

Ask before ordering if material or finishing choice will affect a deadline, display method, or customer delivery.

Important Notes

• Paper texture and finish can change perceived color, contrast, and detail.
• Matte, textured, glossy, and photo surfaces all handle images differently.
• Sample ordering or support guidance can help when material choice is critical.
• Choose material based on final use, not only on screen appearance.

Examples

Example 1: Print will be framed

Choose paper, border, and size with the frame or mat opening in mind.

Example 2: Print will be sold or shipped

Consider packaged prints, mounted prints, or protective handling depending on the customer experience needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I choose the wrong finish?

Contact support as soon as possible. Changes may not be possible once production begins.

Can support recommend a material?

Yes. Share the image type, final use, size, display method, and deadline.

Do finishing options affect shipping?

They can. Mounted, canvas, packaged, and large-format items may require different packaging and carrier handling.

Related Articles

• A Guide to Our Paper Types and Their Best Uses
• How to Select the Perfect Finish for Your Print
• Understanding Finishing Options - Giclée Fine Art Prints
• Understanding Finishing Options - Photo Prints
• Who Are Our Products and Services For?

Need More Help?

If you still need assistance, submit a Help Center request with your order number if applicable, product type, file name or tracking number when relevant, screenshots or photos, and a short description of what you need help with.