By Fiber Type:
* Wood-based: The most common, made from wood pulp (mechanical pulp, chemical pulp, or a blend). Further sub-categorized by the pulping process.
* Cotton/Linen: Higher quality, stronger, and more durable. Often used for fine papers, banknotes, and artist papers.
* Recycled: Made from post-consumer waste paper. Quality can vary widely depending on the source and processing.
* Synthetic: Made from materials other than wood or cotton, often for specialized purposes like durability or resistance to moisture.
By Weight and Thickness:
This is usually measured in pounds (lbs) or grams per square meter (gsm). Higher weight generally means thicker and stronger paper. Specific weights are crucial for different applications. Examples:
* Lightweight: Often used for printing newsprint, flyers, etc.
* Medium weight: Suitable for stationery, brochures, and some book printing.
* Heavyweight: Used for cards, covers, and high-quality printing.
By Finish:
The surface treatment affects the paper's appearance, texture, and printability. Examples include:
* Coated: A smooth surface, ideal for high-quality printing, glossy photos. Sub-categories include matte, gloss, and silk.
* Uncoated: A more textured surface, often used for writing, drawing, or printing with a less glossy finish.
* Textured: Has a distinctive pattern or feel, like linen or laid finishes.
By Brightness:
Measured as a percentage, indicating how much light the paper reflects. Higher brightness generally means whiter paper.
By Application/Purpose:
This is perhaps the most practical way to categorize paper, as it directly relates to the intended use. Examples include:
* Printing paper: Offset, inkjet, laser, etc., each requiring specific properties.
* Writing paper: Notebook paper, stationery, etc.
* Drawing paper: Varies in texture and weight.
* Cardstock: Heavier weight paper for business cards, greeting cards.
* Construction paper: Heavier paper for crafting.
* Newsprint: Lightweight paper for newspapers.
In short, specifying a paper "grade" requires considering several factors. You'd need to consider the fiber type, weight, finish, brightness, and intended use to accurately describe the paper. There is no single "grading system" like A, B, C for paper in general.