Different Types of Paper With Names, Uses, and Pictures

Types of paper include the common paper names used for printing, writing, packaging, food wrapping, and art work. These paper types differ by thickness, finish, and purpose, so choosing the right one becomes easier when you know the names.

In this post, you will learn different types of paper with names, uses, and pictures where relevant. It covers office paper, school paper, packaging boards, food papers, craft papers, and specialty papers, plus quick comparisons like coated vs uncoated and cardstock vs regular paper, so the topic is easier to recognize, compare, and remember.

What Is Paper?

Paper is a thin sheet material made for writing, printing, wrapping, cleaning, or making crafts. People use paper every day in schools, offices, shops, and kitchens, so paper names show up often on labels and packaging. At the same time, paper types differ by use, finish, and thickness, so learning the types helps you choose the right paper faster.

Paper Types at a Glance

This quick overview lists the most common paper types people see in daily life. So, these names help you recognize the main categories before the detailed lists.

• Copy paper: Standard paper used for printers and photocopy machines.
• Bond paper: Strong office paper used for letters, forms, and printing.
• Photo paper: Coated paper made for sharp photo printing.
• Kraft paper: Strong brown paper used for bags, wrapping, and packaging.
• Corrugated cardboard: Thick layered board used for shipping boxes.
• Tissue paper: Thin soft paper used for wrapping and gift packing.
• Wax paper: Food wrap paper with a wax coating for moisture control.
• Parchment paper: Baking paper used for trays and oven-safe lining.
• Construction paper: Colored craft paper used in school projects.
• Cardstock: Thick paper used for cards, crafts, and covers.
• Vellum paper: Smooth semi-transparent paper used for invitations and crafts.
• Tracing paper: Transparent paper used to trace drawings and patterns.

Paper for Printing and Office Work

Office paper types are designed for printers, photocopies, and everyday documents. Because print jobs need different surfaces and thickness, this section groups the most common office paper names.

Copy and Printer Paper

• Copy paper: Basic printer paper used for everyday printing and copying.
• Printer paper: General paper used in inkjet and laser printers for daily documents.
• Multipurpose paper: Office paper made for printing, copying, and basic writing.

Bond Paper and Offset Paper

• Bond paper: Strong paper used for letters, office forms, and clean printing.
• Offset paper: Printing paper used for books, flyers, and large print runs.
• Uncoated offset paper: Offset paper without coating, used for easy writing and printing.

Text Paper and Cover Paper

• Text paper: Medium-weight paper used for pages in books, brochures, and office prints.
• Cover paper: Thicker paper used for report covers, folders, and stronger printed sheets.
• Cover stock: Another common name for cover paper used for durable printed pieces.
• Cardstock: Thick paper used for cards, invitations, and heavy printing needs.

Photo Paper

• Photo paper: Coated paper made for sharp photo printing with richer color.
• Glossy photo paper: Photo paper with a shiny finish for bright, vivid photos.
• Matte photo paper: Photo paper with a non-shiny finish for a softer photo look.

Label and Sticker Paper

• Label paper: Paper used for printing labels for jars, boxes, and office files.
• Sticker paper: Paper with a sticky back used for printable stickers.
• Shipping label paper: Label paper used for parcel labels and address labels.

Paper for Writing and School

School and writing papers are made for handwriting, notes, and classroom work. Because students use different page types for different subjects, these paper names are common in school vocabulary.

Notebook and Ruled Paper

• Ruled paper: Paper with printed lines used for neat handwriting.
• Notebook paper: Ruled paper used for school notes and homework.
• Wide-ruled paper: Ruled paper with wider spaces, often used by young learners.
• College-ruled paper: Ruled paper with narrower lines for more writing on one page.

Loose Leaf Paper

• Loose leaf paper: Ruled paper with holes used in binders.
• Binder paper: Another common name for loose leaf paper used in school binders.
• Hole-punched paper: Paper with holes made for rings and folders.

Graph Paper

• Graph paper: Paper with small squares used for math, charts, and neat drawings.
• Grid paper: Another name for graph paper used for structured writing and planning.
• Engineering paper: Graph-style paper used for technical drawing and design practice.

Exam and Worksheet Paper

• Worksheet paper: Paper used for printed classroom exercises and practice sheets.
• Exam paper: Paper used for tests, quizzes, and written exams.
• Answer sheet: Paper used to write answers during exams and school tests.

Paper for Packaging and Boxes

Packaging papers are made to wrap items, protect products, and build boxes. Because packaging needs strength and structure, these papers are thicker or layered compared to writing paper. In addition, many packaging names appear on cartons and shipping materials.

Kraft Paper

• Kraft paper: Strong brown paper used for bags, wrapping, and box packaging.
• Kraft wrapping paper: Kraft paper used to wrap parcels and gifts.
• Kraft paper bag paper: Kraft paper used for shopping bags and carry bags.

Corrugated Paper and Cardboard

• Corrugated cardboard: Box material with a wavy layer inside for strength.
• Corrugated paper: Paper used in corrugated board to create the inner fluted layer.
• Shipping box cardboard: Corrugated cardboard used for packing and shipping goods.

Paperboard and Boxboard

• Paperboard: Thick paper used to make cartons, packaging, and product boxes.
• Boxboard: Paperboard used for cereal boxes and retail packaging.
• Folding boxboard (FBB): Boxboard used for folding cartons and printed packaging.
• SBS board: Smooth white board used for premium packaging and food cartons.

Chipboard

• Chipboard: Thick recycled board used for backing, boxes, and craft projects.
• Box chipboard: Chipboard used for simple product boxes and packaging supports.
• Backing board: Chipboard used as support behind notebooks or packaged items.

Glassine Paper

• Glassine paper: Smooth semi-transparent paper used for envelopes and protective wrapping.
• Glassine bag paper: Glassine paper used for small product bags and storage pouches.
• Glassine lining paper: Glassine used to line packaging to reduce sticking and rubbing.

Paper for Food Wrapping and Baking

Food papers are used to wrap food, protect it from moisture, and support clean cooking. Because heat and oil can damage normal paper, food papers often have special coatings or safe surfaces. In addition, these names appear often in kitchens and food packaging.

Wax Paper

• Wax paper: Paper coated with wax used for wrapping and separating food items.
• Sandwich wrap paper: Wax-style wrap paper used to wrap sandwiches and snacks.
• Wax wrap sheet: Wax paper sheets used for quick food wrapping and storage.

Parchment Paper

• Parchment paper: Baking paper used to line trays and prevent sticking in the oven.
• Baking paper: Another common name for parchment paper used for oven trays.
• Parchment sheets: Pre-cut parchment paper sheets used for easy baking use.

Greaseproof Paper

• Greaseproof paper: Food paper that resists oil, often used for fried snacks and bakery items.
• Burger wrap paper: Greaseproof paper used to wrap burgers and fast food items.
• Bakery wrap paper: Greaseproof paper used for pastries and baked goods.

Butcher Paper

• Butcher paper: Thick food paper used to wrap meat and cover food for storage.
• Meat wrapping paper: Another name for butcher paper used in meat shops and kitchens.
• Brown butcher paper: Butcher paper type often used for wrapping and food covering.

Cupstock Paper

• Cupstock paper: Strong coated paper used to make disposable cups and food containers.
• Paper cup board: Cupstock used for hot and cold drink cups.
• Food carton paperboard: Cupstock-type board used for food cartons and takeaway packaging.

Paper for Art and Craft

Art and craft papers are made for coloring, cutting, folding, and drawing. Because different art tools need different surfaces, craft paper types vary in thickness, texture, and absorbency. In addition, many of these names appear in school supply lists.

Construction Paper

• Construction paper: Colored paper used for simple school crafts and cutting projects.
• Colored craft paper: Another name for construction paper used for basic craft work.
• Craft paper sheets: Paper sheets used for classroom projects and decorations.

Cardstock for Crafts

• Cardstock: Thick craft paper used for greeting cards, labels, and strong projects.
• Craft cardstock: Cardstock used for scrapbooks, card making, and cut-out shapes.
• Cover cardstock: Thick cardstock used for project covers and display sheets.

Origami Paper and Washi Paper

• Origami paper: Thin square paper used for paper folding designs.
• Washi paper: Decorative paper used for crafts, wrapping, and art projects.
• Pattern paper: Printed paper used for scrapbooks and craft decoration.

Sketch and Drawing Paper

• Sketch paper: Light paper used for pencil sketches and quick practice drawings.
• Drawing paper: A thicker paper used for cleaner drawing and stronger lines.
• Mixed media paper: Paper made to handle pencil, ink, and light paint together.
• Charcoal paper: Textured paper used for charcoal and soft drawing tools.

Watercolor Paper

• Watercolor paper: Thick absorbent paper used for watercolor painting.
• Cold press watercolor paper: Slightly textured watercolor paper used for most painting styles.
• Hot press watercolor paper: Smooth watercolor paper used for fine detail work.

Bristol Board

• Bristol board: Thick smooth paper used for clean lines, markers, and detailed drawing.
• Bristol paper: Another common name for bristol board used in art work.
• Smooth bristol board: Bristol board type used for ink and marker art.

Paper Finish and Texture Types

Paper finish describes how the surface feels and how it looks after printing. Because finish affects shine, color, and readability, many paper types are sold by finish name. In addition, textured papers are popular for premium stationery and invitations.

Coated Paper (Gloss, Matte, Satin)

• Gloss coated paper: Shiny coated paper used for photos, brochures, and bright printing.
• Matte coated paper: Smooth coated paper with low shine used for clean, soft printing.
• Satin (silk) paper: Coated paper with a balanced shine used for professional prints.

Uncoated Paper

• Uncoated paper: Paper without coating, often used for writing, books, and office documents.
• Uncoated text paper: Uncoated paper used for pages where writing and reading both matter.
• Uncoated cover paper: Uncoated thicker paper used for covers and premium stationery.

Textured Paper

• Textured paper: Paper with a patterned surface used for invitations and premium cards.
• Linen paper: Textured paper that looks like fabric lines, used for formal printing.
• Laid paper: Textured paper with fine lines, often used for classic stationery.

Paper Weight and Thickness Basics

Paper weight and thickness affect how strong the sheet feels. Because heavier paper holds shape better, it is used for cards and covers, while lighter paper suits daily printing.

Lightweight Paper

• Lightweight paper: Thin paper used for everyday writing and basic printing.
• Newsprint: Light paper used for newspapers and practice printing.
• Tissue paper: Very thin paper used for gift wrapping and soft packing.

Medium-Weight Paper

• Text paper: Medium paper used for book pages, brochures, and regular printing.
• Bond paper: Medium paper used for office printing and writing.
• Drawing paper: Medium-thick paper used for sketching and school art.

Heavyweight Paper (Cardstock/Cover)

• Cover paper: Thick paper used for covers, folders, and durable sheets.
• Cardstock: Heavy paper used for cards, crafts, and strong printing needs.
• Paperboard: Very thick board used for packaging and boxes.

Specialty Paper Types

Specialty papers are made for special jobs like tracing, crafting, display boards, or eco-friendly use. Because these papers have unique surfaces or structure, their names are often searched directly.

Vellum Paper

• Vellum paper: Smooth semi-transparent paper used for invitations, crafts, and overlays.
• Vellum sheets: Pre-cut vellum paper used for card making and decorative layers.
• Vellum cardstock: Thicker vellum-style paper used for stronger craft projects.

Tracing Paper

• Tracing paper: Transparent paper used to copy drawings, patterns, and designs.
• Tracing sheets: Tracing paper sheets used for art class and design work.
• Architect tracing paper: Tracing paper used for technical drawing and planning.

Recycled Paper

• Recycled paper: Paper made from recycled fibers used for printing and packaging.
• Recycled copy paper: Office paper made with recycled content for daily printing.
• Recycled kraft paper: Kraft paper made with recycled fibers for packaging use.

Foam Board (Foam Core)

• Foam board: A lightweight board used for posters, presentations, and displays.
• Foam core board: Another name for foam board used in school and office projects.
• Presentation board: Board used to mount charts, pictures, and project work.

Paper Names List

Here is a quick scan list of common paper names. Use it to recognize paper types and remember the main names.

• Copy paper
• Printer paper
• Multipurpose paper
• Bond paper
• Offset paper
• Text paper
• Cover paper
• Cover stock
• Cardstock
• Photo paper
• Glossy photo paper
• Matte photo paper
• Label paper
• Sticker paper
• Shipping label paper
• Ruled paper
• Notebook paper
• Wide-ruled paper
• College-ruled paper
• Loose leaf paper
• Binder paper
• Hole-punched paper
• Graph paper
• Grid paper
• Engineering paper
• Worksheet paper
• Exam paper
• Answer sheet
• Kraft paper
• Kraft wrapping paper
• Corrugated cardboard
• Paperboard
• Boxboard
• Folding boxboard (FBB)
• SBS board
• Chipboard
• Glassine paper
• Wax paper
• Parchment paper
• Baking paper
• Greaseproof paper
• Butcher paper
• Cupstock paper
• Construction paper
• Origami paper
• Washi paper
• Sketch paper
• Drawing paper
• Mixed media paper
• Charcoal paper
• Watercolor paper
• Bristol board
• Coated paper
• Gloss coated paper
• Matte coated paper
• Satin (silk) paper
• Uncoated paper
• Textured paper
• Linen paper
• Laid paper
• Vellum paper
• Tracing paper
• Recycled paper
• Foam board

Coated vs Uncoated Paper

Coated paper has a coated surface that makes prints look sharper and brighter, while uncoated paper has a natural surface that feels more writable. So, coated paper suits colorful printing, while uncoated paper suits writing and reading.

Type	Surface	Best For
Coated paper	Smooth with coating	Photos, brochures, bright prints
Uncoated paper	Natural, not coated	Writing, books, office use

Cardstock vs Regular Paper

Cardstock is thicker and stiffer than regular paper. Because it holds shape better, it works for cards and crafts, while regular paper works for everyday printing and writing.

Type	Thickness	Best For
Cardstock	Thick and stiff	Cards, crafts, covers
Regular paper	Thin to medium	Printing, notes, worksheets

FAQs

Conclusion

Different types of paper become easier to understand when you group them by office use, school writing, packaging, food wrapping, art, finish, and thickness. Because each paper type has a specific purpose, the right choice improves printing, writing, crafting, and wrapping results.

At the same time, learning paper names builds better everyday vocabulary, especially when you shop for paper, read labels, and choose the right sheet for your task.

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