Paper for Letterpress
Paper Finishes: Coated, Cotton & More
If you’re newer to letterpress printing, you may be wondering what the big deal with cotton paper is. The type and finish of a paper affects its texture, ink absorbency, and how colors appear on the page. We’re here to elaborate, and share some of the ‘why’ behind our favorite paper stocks!
Coated Paper
This paper has a smooth, sometimes glossy surface that has been treated with a sealant. It can be:
Glossy – Super shiny; great for photo-heavy brochures or magazines
Matte – Smooth but without the sheen; gives a professional, refined look
Silk/Satin – Somewhere in between
Best for: Offset or digital printing where crisp image reproduction is needed
Not ideal for: Letterpress — because the coating resists ink and impression
Uncoated Paper
This is paper in its natural state — more absorbent, textured, and warm. It’s available in a range of finishes from ultra-smooth to heavily textured (like watercolor paper). 100% Cotton stock like Savoy/Neenah/Lettra is not the only type of uncoated paper, but it is some of the most popular for letterpress printing!
Best for: Letterpress, pencil or pen writing, a handmade feel
Other Specialty Finishes
Laid – Has visible lines or ridges from the papermaking screen.
Wove – A smoother version of laid, with a soft, uniform texture.
Felt Finish – Mimics the texture of felt; soft and tactile.
Deckled Edge – A feathered or torn-looking edge, often used in fine art prints or stationery.
The Best Papers for Letterpress Printing
Letterpress printing isn't just about the ink; it's about the impression too. You want a paper that’s thick enough to handle deep impressions, soft enough to let the type bite, and strong enough not to tear. Here are some of the most beloved papers among letterpress printers:
Crane’s Lettra
100% cotton
Comes in 300 gsm (110 lb cover) and 600 gsm (220 lb cover)
Uncoated, with a rich, plush surface
Absorbs ink beautifully and holds deep impressions
Why printers love it: Soft, luxurious, and made specifically for letterpress
Savoy by Reich Paper
100% cotton
Comes in a range of weights (118 lb, 236 lb, 298 lb)
Available in bright white and natural white
Slightly smoother than Lettra, but still very impression-friendly
Why printers love it: Versatile and eco-friendly, with less cotton dust left behind than Lettra/Neenah
Neenah Cotton / Neenah Classic Crest
Neenah offers cotton and wood pulp-based options
Their cotton papers are soft and impressionable, like Lettra
Classic Crest is a smooth, text-weight option for inserts or envelopes
Why printers love it: Great quality control, excellent availability, and more finish/color options than others
Holyoke Fine Paper
100% cotton, made specifically for letterpress
140 lb and 160 lb cover
More toothy texture than Lettra — feels extra handmade
Why printers love it: Small-batch and designed by letterpress printers, for letterpress printers
Boxcar Flurry
100% cotton printer’s paper exclusive to Boxcar Press
Smoother texture with a soft and satiny feel
Flurry loves letterpress, foil stamping, embossing, die-cutting, scoring, and it features a coating for HP Indigo printing
Why printers love it: Comes in pre-cut, pre-scored card options, as well as larger sheets & coordinating envelopes
Letterpress Paper Tips
Here are a few quick pointers for working with paper in your print shop:
Test before buying in bulk: Even trusted brands can behave differently depending on humidity, press pressure, and ink.
Consider your envelopes: Thick stock often requires flat or custom envelopes. If you want to match your envelopes + stock, you’ll want to make sure the brand you choose has the size you’ll need.
Warm up your paper: If stored in a cold or damp environment, let it acclimate before printing to prevent warping or cracking.
Store flat and clean: Cotton paper dents easily and can attract dust, which will affect your final print.
Final Thoughts
Great design requires great paper. Whether you’re creating a wedding suite, a notecard line, or an art print, paper choice plays a crucial role in how your work feels, functions, and is remembered.
For letterpress in particular, don’t be afraid to splurge a bit on premium stock — it’s the foundation of your final piece. The right paper will absorb ink beautifully, hold a deep impression, and elevate your printing to heirloom quality.
