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What is matte paper?
Last updated 16 June 2026.
Matte paper is a premium stock with a smooth, non-reflective finish. It reduces glare and fingerprints, making it easy to read and ideal for a clean, professional look.
A matte folded leaflet showing a smooth, non-reflective surface with deep red and black tones.

Why choose matte?

This stock is a versatile favourite because of its smooth, shine-free coating. Unlike glossy paper, which has a high-reflectivity finish, matte paper absorbs light to provide a sophisticated, glare-free look. It feels silky to the touch and won't pick up fingerprints, making it a practical choice for cards that will be handled frequently.

Tips for your design

  • Rich, muted tones: Matte paper is excellent for dark colours and heavy ink coverage. It creates a deep, ‘velvety’ look. If you’re looking for vibrant, ‘popping’ colours, glossy might be a better fit, but matte is the way to go for a modern, understated aesthetic.

  • Focus on readability: Since there's no glare, this paper is much easier to read under bright lights than glossy stock. This makes it a great choice for text-heavy designs, price lists or menus.

  • Easy to write on: While glossy surfaces can be difficult to write on without smudging, the matte coating accepts ink from most pens and pencils easily.


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