Carbonless Paper – Paper coated in such a way that when written upon, the image transfers to the sheet(s) below, without the use of carbon paper.
Coated Paper – Paper coated with a clay or other coating, which yields more pure colors and sharper images than uncoated papers. Coated papers may be cast coated (almost wet gloss), matte coated (non-glossy) or glossy.
Finishes available on coated paper
Matte Coated – Clay coated paper with no “glossing” process applied to the paper.
Gloss Coated – Clay coated paper which is passed over spinning rollers which calender the finish to a gloss
Cast Coated – Paper coated with a liquid which when dried yields a wet, glossy appearance.
Uncoated Paper – Paper which is not coated, it is less expensive and weighs less than coated papers.
Finishes available on uncoated paper
Smooth – just what it sounds like.
Super Smooth – Additional pressure during manufacture yields a smoother surface than smooth.
Laid – Rough parallel lines
Linen – Fine crosshatch, like linen.
Vellum – Semi-rough finish, not to be confused with the translucent paper known as vellum.