Xerox Docucolor 12 Users Manual MUG

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MUG 9/1/99 10:36 AM Page 1

COLOR
Materials
Usage
Guide

ONCE YOU’VE MADE
YOUR FIRST SMART DECISION,

MAKE THE NEXT.
To maintain peak performance in your new color equipment, use only the best _ Xerox Supplies.
Designed side-by-side with the engineers who make the equipment, our supplies improve quality
and productivity, and can even reduce service calls. For maximum
color performance, make the next smart decision with Xerox Supplies.

Xerox®, The Document Company®, the digital X and all Xerox products mentioned herein are trademarks of XEROX CORPORATION.

Contents

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Making the best decision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Answers to these question and more . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Papers for today’s business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

About this guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

About Paper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Fundamentals of Paper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Let’s take a look at the papermaking machines. . . . . . 3
Why do we produce so many documents? . . . . . . . . . 3
What Happens When Dry Ink Meets Paper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
When dry ink meets paper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Important Paper Properties for Color Xerography . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Paper influences on document quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Optical paper qualities that influence image quality . . 10
Reliability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Moisture content . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Electrical properties (conductivity and resistivity) . . . . 13
Surface strength . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Friction coefficient . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Paper Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Stacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Temperature and humidity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Conditioning paper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Why Paper Doesn’t Always Work the Way it Should . . . . . . . . . . 18
Coated paper and offset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Coated paper and xerography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Moisture and xerography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Textured stock and xerography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Technology and Paper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Digital production printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Office laser printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Office digital copying and printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Xerox Papers and Xerox Digital Copier/Printers . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

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I

How to Order Paper like a Pro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
How paper is categorized – in the USA and Canada . . . . . . . . . 21
Business papers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Book papers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Speciality materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
How Paper is Measured in Terms of Weights and Sizes . . . . . . . 28
Terms used to describe paper weight . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Ways paper can be ordered . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Paper sizes in the USA and Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
International Standards Organization (ISO) paper sizes
30
How to Select the Right Texture/Finish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Smooth finishes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Rough finishes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
How to Specify Paper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
How to Cut Your Costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Ten ways to keep your costs down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Usage Guidelines for Xerox Color Copiers and Printers . . . . . . . . 34
Standard (or Normal) Weight Papers (Uncoated) . . . . . . . . . . . .
Description and expectations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Heavy-Weight Papers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Description and expectations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hints, tips and testing results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coated Papers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Description and expectations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hints, tips and testing results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Recycled Papers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Description and expectations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hints, tips and testing results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hole-Punched Papers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Description and expectations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hints, tips and testing results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pressure-Sensitive Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Description and expectations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hints, tips and testing results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Preprinted Papers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Description and expectations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hints, tips and testing results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Single-Step Transfer Paper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Description and expectations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hints, tips and testing results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transparencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Description and expectations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hints, tips and testing results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

II

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COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

Color Materials Usage Guide

Introduction
Today, office documents are no longer limited to black and white.
There are literally thousands of choices: colors, images, paper and
multiple technology options. Desktop publishing, color laser printing,
on-demand and digital full-color printing offer many document
creation choices but also present some challenging questions —
especially when it comes to choosing paper.
Making the best decision
Which paper is best for a full-color image? Which papers work best
with different print technologies and applications? How does dry ink
interact with paper? Which papers offer the highest performance
and value? What about grades, weights, shades, textures and
finishes?
Answers to these question and more
The Color Materials Usage Guide gives you an inside look at the
differences in the way paper is made and how it influences reliability
and image quality; how dry ink particles, ink and paper fibers
interact; and how you can improve productivity by using papers that
are compatible with your equipment and application.
Papers for today’s business
Because of the growing demand for more sophisticated printing
papers in digital print environments, paper mills are beginning to
offer a wide range of papers specifically designed for optimum
performance on today’s advanced, full-featured color printers.This
Color Materials Usage Guide explores the options and shows you
how to specify the right paper for the best results.

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ABOUT THIS GUIDE

About this guide
Symbols
The following symbols have been used to help you quickly find
information you need.
The Key indicates that the information provided is important for you
to know.

CAUTION: These statements inform you of actions that may result
in mechanical damage to the copier/printer.

WARNING: These statements alert you to actions which may cause
personal injury.

Terminology
On some Xerox copier/printers, the manual feed tray on the side of
the machine is referred to as the Bypass Tray and on others it is
referred to as Tray 5. You may also hear this tray referred to as the
Multi-Sheet Inserter. All of these terms refer to the same tray.
Dry ink may also be referred to as toner.

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About Paper
Fundamentals of Paper
This guide will help you to understand the variables that occur
during the paper-making process that influence paper performance,
and why paper may not always work the way you think it should.
You’ll be able to use this knowledge where it really counts... when
making paper choices for documents that are important to you.
Let’s take a look at the papermaking machines.
Running at speeds of 3000 feet a minute, the typical paper machine
produces about 800 tons of paper a day. This may sound like a lot of
paper. But when you consider that companies produce more than a
trillion documents each year, it’s easy to see why large capacity
paper machines are important to business.
Why do we produce so many documents?
The driving force is computer technology. Initially intended to create
a paperless office, the digital revolution has had quite the opposite
impact. Information now moves more rapidly, we work faster, and
generate more paper documents. Paper is more important today
than ever, as advanced print technology and desktop publishing
applications enable users to create more sophisticated,
professional-looking documents from their desktop computers.

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What Happens When Dry Ink Meets Paper
How dry ink interacts with a paper’s surface directly influences how
ideas are translated into the tones and values that make up an
image. This section takes a look at the how dry ink, paper properties
and the optical characteristics of paper impart certain qualities in
finished documents.

Printed images are actually
an optical illusion created
from a pattern or screen of dots.

When dry ink meets paper
Dry ink is a dry powder used in xerographic processes that is heatfused onto paper fibers. Fusing permanently adheres the dry ink so
that it won’t flake, scratch or peel. Rough paper stocks may be less
desirable for xerographic use as their texture may prevent dry ink
from adhering to the paper’s surface.

In xerography, dry ink is
heat fused onto paper fibers.

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Important Paper Properties for Color Xerography
Paper influences on document quality
Variables in the paper-making process can influence the quality and
performance of the finished paper. While some variables are
controlled to create specific stocks, others may result in
imperfections.

•

Formation – Formation is how fibers are distributed on a
sheet. Poor fiber formation can cause mottle or uneven, spotty
dry ink distribution in images with high solid area coverage. To
gain insight into the formation of paper, hold a sample sheet
up to a light. If the paper has good formation, it looks even and
consistent. If it has poor formation, it will appear splotchy and
uneven.

Hint: Fiber formation is especially
important when documents
include photographs or have
high ink coverage. For best
results, select a paper that has
good formation.

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•

Grain Direction – The grain of a paper is the direction in
which most of the fibers lie. During the paper-making process,
the majority of the paper fibers align parallel with one another.
Depending on how the paper is cut to its finished size, it will be
either grain-long (the grain is parallel to the longer dimension
of the paper), or grain-short (the grain is parallel to the shorter
dimension of the paper).
One method used to determine the grain is to fold a sheet of
paper lengthwise, then make a crosswise fold. Compare the
two folds. Paper folds smoothly with the grain. Cross-grain
folds tend to be rough and cracked.
Another method you can use to determine the grain direction
of a sheet of paper is to tear the sheet widthwise. Paper
always tears straighter with the grain.
Grain direction is critical when running papers heavier than
120 g/m2 in the copier/printer. These papers must be loaded in
the (Also Called Tray 5) with the grain direction parallel to the
leading edge of the sheet.
Hint: Choose short grain papers
when printing documents with
images that cross over folds
(i.e. brochure applications).

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•

Stiffness – Stiffness refers to the rigidity, or bending
resistance of paper. Thicker papers are usually stiffer.
In general, paper that is less than 16 lb (64 g/m2) is more likely
to bunch up or wrinkle in the copier/printer, causing jams and
misfeeds. Heavier weight papers, over 28 lb (105 g/m2), may
have runability problems as well as print quality defects (skips,
blurs, deletions) due to their reduced ability to bend around the
transfer drum.
Usually, reliable feeding rates can be obtained by feeding
lightweight paper, 16 lb (64 g/m2), with the grain direction the
same as the feed direction. This will increase the stiffness.
When feeding 32 lb xerographic/bond or heavier paper, the
grain direction should be the opposite of the feed direction to
decrease stiffness.

•

Porosity – Paper that is too porous causes misfeeds or
multifeeds as well as solid area mottle (spotty or uneven
printing) and smears. Low porosity (denser) sheets tend to
have more curl and are prone to image smears.

•

Weight – Weight is another important consideration. Heavier
sheets are often thicker because they contain more fibers.
These papers may be too thick or rigid to pass through the
paper path of certain printers. They may also crack or blister
when folded (even when scored).
Hint: When choosing paper, select
stocks that are within
recommended range for the
print technology being used.
Test the paper by folding a
sample document.

Binderies score thick papers
before folding, especially coated
stocks, or when heavy ink coverage
will cross a fold.

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•

Finish/Smoothness – Finish is the smoothness or roughness
of a paper’s surface. Finish may be controlled by the surface
(wire or felt) pattern used to carry the pulp mixture through the
paper-making machine, by adding coatings, and through the
calendering process which smooths and polishes the paper
surface. Calendering is a series of polished stainless steel
rollers which compress the surface fibers and add gloss to the
sheet.
The smoothness of paper has a significant impact on image
quality. If paper is too rough, image quality degrades; with
increasing roughness, expect a loss of image quality in solids
and halftones (grainy colors). Extremely rough paper does not
properly accept fused dry ink, which rubs or flakes off.
Mottle (light patches in solid color areas) will occur on rough
papers and on papers with poor or uneven formation. Paper
smoothness and formation generally become worse as the
paper weight increases
Since surface irregularities may not be filled in with dry ink, the
image on rough papers may appear lighter. A higher density
setting (use the Lighter/Darker setting on your copier/printer) is
required to achieve a density level equivalent to that on
smoother papers.
Xerographic papers for color are generally smoother than the
average xerographic papers.
Hint: Use smooth or coated
finishes for documents that
have fine detail, shaded
areas or halftone images.

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•

Image on bright
white paper

Impurities– Impurities in the paper-making process can leave
tiny specks in some paper stocks which may result in
undesirable marks or spots on the image of your copy or print.
(This is especially true with many recycled papers since some
impurities may not be removed in the recycling process.)
Hint: The specks in recycled papers
may interfere with some images
and fine type in documents.
Although Xerox is a supporter of
recycled papers, we
recommend non-recycled
papers when copying or printing
documents containing high
resolution photographs or fine
type.

Image on paper
containing impurities

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Optical paper qualities that influence image quality
The performance of dry ink is affected by the following paper
characteristics: Shade - Opacity - Brightness - Reflectivity

•

Shade – Paper shades may change the appearance of color
images because dry ink is applied in dot patterns (or screens)
which allow a certain amount of the paper color to show
through. Paper shade can also vary significantly among
brands.
Hint: Select a true white paper for
truer color and more natural
looking skin tones.

•

Opacity – Two-sided printing requires paper that is more
opaque so that show-through isn’t a problem. A paper with low
opacity allows show-through of images and text from one side
of the sheet to the other (e.g., newsprint). Opacity affects
legibility, attractiveness, and quality.
Hint: For better results on documents
with large amounts of dry ink or
ink coverage, use paper with
higher opacity.

•

Brightness –A paper’s ability to reflect light is called
brightness. When dry ink is applied to brighter papers, images
have higher contrast which improves printability and quality.
Hint: For best results, use brighter
papers when copying or printing
documents that contain
photographs or complex
graphics.

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•
Light

Light

Image

Image

Reflectivity – When dry ink is applied to a smooth surface
paper, such as gloss, the resulting image is sharper because
the image is reflected back in a straightforward direction.
Images resulting from dry ink applied to a rough surface are
not as sharp because the image reflection is scattered in
several directions.
Hint: Select paper with a smooth,
reflective surface for sharper
images.

Reliability

•

Curl – Excessive paper curl may cause jams. The selection of
a low-curl paper within the recommended moisture range will
make a significant difference in the performance of your
copier/printer.
Xerox papers are manufactured with built-in curl control and
work well when loaded into the paper trays in the correct curl
direction.
Some papers are packaged with an arrow printed on one end
of the ream wrapper. The arrow points to the wire side of the
paper. The curl side of the paper, also known as the felt side, is
the opposite side.
Load the paper into the copier/printer’s internal paper trays so
the image will print on the wire side of the paper.
Load the paper into the Bypass Tray (also called Tray 5) or
High Capacity Feeder (if available) with the wire side up (curl
side down). It is especially important to load heavy weight
papers into the Bypass Tray with the curl side down.
If more detailed information about loading paper is required,
refer to the user guide for your copier/printer.

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If the wrapper on a ream of paper is not marked with an arrow
showing the wire side of the paper, the side of the paper facing
the seam of the package is the wire side. Or, you can
determine the curl side by holding a one-half inch stack of
paper by one of the short edges.
Let the paper hang with the long edge parallel to your body.
Either the lower edge or the two side edges will curl slightly
toward the center. Observe which way the edge or edges curl.
This is the curl side.
Paper handling and copy curl performance vary with room
temperature, humidity, paper quality, and the image area on
the copies. All of these variables interact, and, in some
situations, you must experiment to determine which paper
loading method provides the best performance.

Paper feeding hints
If persistent paper feeding problems occur, one of the
following hints may help:
– Turn over the paper in the tray and make the copies again.

This technique can be used for both the internal paper trays
and the Bypass Tray (also called Tray 5). If feeding
performance is improved, continue to load the paper in this
manner.
– Open a fresh ream of paper. Load the fresh paper and run
the job again. If the paper jams stop, discard the paper that
was causing the jams.
– Occasionally, the top sheets of a newly opened ream will
curl in the opposite direction to that of the remaining sheets
in the ream, indicating that the paper is adjusting to the
humidity level in the room. To obtain consistent curl for all
sheets in the ream, allow the opened ream to remain in the
room until all the sheets have acclimated to the
environmental conditions.
– Change the paper feed orientation. For example, if feeding
long-edge first (LEF), try feeding short-edge first (SEF).

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Moisture content
Moisture content directly affects reliability and image quality.

•

Too much moisture can cause excessive paper curl, paper
jams, and image quality problems. Moisture levels that are too
low can cause static problems, which can also result in paper
jams.

•

Moisture content must be uniform within the ream. The ream
should not be allowed to lose or absorb moisture during
storage. Moisture-proof ream wrappers are essential to
maintaining the correct moisture level. Xerox papers have a
specially designed ream wrapper that resists the migration of
moisture into and out of the package.

•

A moisture level range of 4.0 to 5.0% is recommended for
paper used in a copier/printer.

Electrical properties (conductivity and resistivity)
Paper that is highly conductive causes image deletion and paper
jams. Highly resistive paper, on the other hand, causes static buildup between paper sheets, leading to multi-feeds, jams, and image
offset problems. Electrical properties should be balanced to prevent
deletions under humid conditions, or background (spots/streaks)
and static under dry conditions.
Xerox papers have the correct balance to provide you with optimum
performance.
Surface strength
For a paper to have acceptable surface strength, fibers and
chemicals must be bonded well to its surface. Loose fibers and other
materials within paper can cause developer contamination that can
further cause premature developer failure in Xerox printers/copiers.

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Friction coefficient
This term refers to the frictional differences between two adjacent
sheets of paper and between paper and the copier/printer feed rolls
or belts. Since most Xerox digital color copier/printers are designed
with friction feeders, the correct frictional properties of the paper are
important in order that friction be uniform throughout each sheet.
Also, relative friction that is too high or too low causes misfeeds,
multifeeds, and jams.
There is no way to measure friction coefficients outside of a testing
facility. The safest procedure for you is to always buy your paper
from reputable, reliable vendors of xerographic supplies. Xerox was
the first to identify and specify frictional ranges needed for
xerographic papers. Xerox papers possess the correct frictional
properties for use in Xerox equipment.

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Paper Storage
Paper is normally shipped in fiberboard cartons. The number of
reams in a carton depends on the size of the paper. If a large
quantity of paper has been ordered, the cartons are stacked on
wooden pallets.
Mishandled cartons (e.g., dropped, thrown, or struck with a fork lift),
may result in damaged paper, some of which may not be
immediately obvious. The use of damaged paper increases the
frequency of paper jams and other feeding problems.
Do not store the cartons directly on the floor; this increases the
possibility of moisture absorption. Store the cartons on pallets,
shelves, or in cabinets in an area protected from extremes of
temperature and humidity.
Do not open the sealed reams of paper until the paper is to be
loaded into the copier/printer. Leave the paper in the original ream
wrapper, and leave the reams in the shipping carton. The ream
wrapper contains an inner lining which protects the paper from
moisture. Removing the ream wrapper eliminates the protective
barrier, exposing the paper to moisture fluctuations which can result
in excessive curl and other undesirable effects.
Paper from an unopened ream will provide excellent performance.
When paper from an opened ream will not be used for a period of
time, such as overnight, the ream wrapper should be re-sealed with
tape. For best results, loose paper should be stored in a resealable
plastic bag, or in the internal paper trays of the machine.
Do not store paper in the Bypass Tray (also called Tray 5). Load
only enough paper in the Bypass Tray for the job being run.
If using paper from a ream that has been left open, take the sheets
from the center of the ream.
Precaution for Coated Paper

COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

Store coated paper in re-sealable bags or storage boxes with
covers.

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15

ABOUT PAPER

Stacking
If the cartons or individual reams are to be stacked, they should be
placed carefully on top of one another to avoid crushing the edges
or causing any other damage.
The cartons should be stacked no more than five cartons high.
Pallets of paper may be stacked three high.
Temperature and humidity
The temperature of the room where paper is stored can have a
significant effect on how that paper performs in the copier/printer.
The control of humidity is one of the most important precautions that
can be taken to ensure proper paper handling in the machine.
Paper should be stored within the following conditions:

16

Air conditioned

Most environments with air conditioning systems provide the proper
combination of temperature and humidity for good paper
performance.

Non-air conditioned

Use the following guidelines for storing paper in non-air conditioned
environments:

•

Minimum: 50° F (10° C) at 15% relative humidity.

•

Maximum: 81° F (27.2° C) at 85% relative humidity.

Contact your local authorized Xerox distributor, or call Xerox at 1-800-822-2200 in the USA,
or 1-800-668-0199 in Canada for our full line of media.
COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

ABOUT PAPER

Conditioning paper
If the paper is moved from a storage area to a location with a
different temperature and humidity, the paper should be conditioned
to the new location before it is used.
All materials used in the copier/printer must be conditioned to the
temperature/humidity of the room containing the copier/printer for
optimum performance.
Paper

Put paper in the same room as the copier/printer the night before it
is used in the copier/printer.

Transparencies

Leave transparencies in the same room as the copier/printer for 24
hours before they are used in the copier/printer.

Label stock

Condition label stock for 72 hours in the copier/printer area before it
is used in the copier/printer.
Separating the cartons or reams of paper (or boxes of
transparencies or labels) from each other can accelerate the
conditioning of materials.
Do not unseal the reams of paper until you are ready to load them
into the machine.

COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

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ABOUT PAPER

Why Paper Doesn’t Always Work the Way it Should
Coated paper and offset
The high gloss papers used in magazines, brochures, and direct
mail have long been the choice of graphic designers and offset
press operators because the smooth, glossy finish has reflective
qualities which provide an optimum surface for photographs, color
illustrations and text.
Coated paper and xerography
Because many of today’s applications have moved from offset
printing to digital, users are beginning to demand fine printing
papers for their xerographic equipment. Although many offset
papers may be used in xerographic equipment, there are some
limitations to the performance of coated stocks with this technology.
Coating materials used in the manufacture of these papers impact
performance and reliability (i.e., smearing, blurring and flaking).
Moisture and xerography
Xerography is a dry process where papers run at about 4.5%
moisture content. If too much moisture is present, the heat of the
fuser will draw out the moisture, causing curl. If there is not enough
moisture, static electricity becomes a problem. For best results,
keep paper sealed in a temperature/moisture controlled
environment until ready for use. Re-seal open reams with tape or
plastic wrap, or place in a moisture-proof container.

Textured stock and xerography
Imaging drum
on rough
surface

In order to duplicate or print fine lines and detailed images on
xerographic equipment, the paper surface must come in close
contact with the imaging drum for dry ink particles to adhere. If the
paper texture is too rough, some particles may never come in
contact with the paper, and parts of your image won’t print.

Imaging drum
on smooth
surface
In xerography, textured surfaces may not
allow the imaging drum to make close contact
with the surface, resulting in uneven printing and
loss of detail.

18

Contact your local authorized Xerox distributor, or call Xerox at 1-800-822-2200 in the USA,
or 1-800-668-0199 in Canada for our full line of media.
COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

ABOUT PAPER

Technology and Paper
Choosing the right paper calls for a strong knowledge of paper
characteristics and how they relate to different print technologies.
Whether making color copies, printing from a digital office or
production printer, or a workgroup laser printer, you’ll need to
consider the variables associated with different equipment and how
they influence paper buying decisions.
Digital production printing
This type of printing is often the choice for production printing of
forms, manuals, training materials and other business documents.
Digital production printers, such as the Xerox DocuColor 40, enable
color and/or black and white on-demand publishing, eliminating the
need for large inventories of pre-printed documents. Digital printing
is best for quantities of less than 1000.
Office laser printing
With easy access to sophisticated desktop publishing applications,
full-color scanning, and high-speed color technology, office laser
printing is becoming the output device of choice for many business
documents. This is especially true for documents that need to be
customized, changed and updated to reflect rapidly changing
business. The quantities typically recommended for laser printing
are 1-50.
Office digital copying and printing
People want the freedom and flexibility to create high quality color
documents in smaller quantities – in multiple variations – with a wide
degree of depth and dimension. They want their presentations,
reports, and business documents in general, to look sharp and
bright.

COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

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19

ABOUT PAPER

Xerox Papers and Xerox Digital Copier/Printers
Xerox papers are carefully researched and developed to be the
perfect link to Xerox digital technology. This seamless science
means benefits for you: less equipment contamination and
downtime, fewer paper jams, lower service costs and, above all,
unprecedented color image quality time and time again.
Xerox paper is the only paper…

20

•

that is designed and tested in Xerox digital color copier/
printers at environmental extremes;

•

that has unique and proven specifications that tie to copier/
printer performance and customer productivity;

•

with qualification/quality assurance programs specific to the
manufacturing equipment that applies to reams, not rolls of
paper at the mill;

•

that guarantees consistency, with no changes to the product or
process without Xerox approval.

Contact your local authorized Xerox distributor, or call Xerox at 1-800-822-2200 in the USA,
or 1-800-668-0199 in Canada for our full line of media.
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HOW TO ORDER PAPER LIKE A PRO

How to Order Paper like a Pro
When you order paper, it’s important to know the differences
between papers so that you’ll know what to ask for. Professionals
divide papers into large categories or grades according to their end
use, method of printing, and pulp content.
Refer to the chart, Types of Paper, for a description of many paper
types, their features, surfaces, sizes, weights, and common names.

How paper is categorized – in the USA and Canada
Business papers
This category of paper is also called bond paper, communication
paper, correspondence paper and writing paper. This paper is used
in stationery, business forms, and as copier papers.

COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

•

Bond paper (strong durable writing paper, most commonly
used for letterheads, stationery, business forms, etc.)

•

Xerographic papers (strong, durable paper used for
electrostatic photocopiers and printers)

•

Laser (laser printing)

•

Dual purpose (printing, copying)

•

Writing (stationery)

•

Ledger (bookkeeping)

•

Form (computer paper/business forms)

•

Translucent bond (blueprint copy)

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21

HOW TO ORDER PAPER LIKE A PRO

Book papers
A large classification of papers produced primarily for book and
publication printing and a wide variety of commercial printing
applications. Book papers include coated and uncoated papers in a
wide variety of basis weights, colors, and finishes.
Premium text
Premium text is a high quality text paper that is typically
chosen for its lavish surface texture, unique visual effects and
soft textured images. Premium text makes a sophisticated
statement for annual reports, announcements, fliers, and
simple brochures; however, it is not suitable for images with
high color saturation or fine line resolution.
Uncoated book
Also called offset or text paper, uncoated book comes in a
variety of rough to smooth finishes. Used for books,
newsletters, and direct mailers, this paper is often referred to
as the workhorse paper for general purpose use.
Coated book
Additional pigments and binders are used to enhance the
surface quality and printability of coated book. In offset
printing, coatings help set ink on the paper’s surface rather
than allowing it to absorb into the fibers. This results in more
vibrant colors and crisper detail.
Coated paper is the best choice for offset printing of
magazines, calendars, posters and brochures. Coated stocks
are primarily designed for offset printing, however, because of
the important role coated stocks play in color applications,
companies are developing coated stocks optimized for digital
printing.

22

Contact your local authorized Xerox distributor, or call Xerox at 1-800-822-2200 in the USA,
or 1-800-668-0199 in Canada for our full line of media.
COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

HOW TO ORDER PAPER LIKE A PRO

Cover
Living up to its name, cover paper is a heavier weight, durable paper
used for book covers, tabs, folders, postcards, and business cards.
Cover stocks are available in a variety of finishes for offset printing:

•

Coated one side (C1S)

•

Coated two sides (C2S)

•

Coated high gloss

•

Uncoated

Some cover papers are too heavy for laser printing and copying.
These heavy cover stocks are not flexible enough to bend around
the curves of the paper path in some digital copier/printers.
Index
This is a rough, less expensive paper with poor formation. This stock
is characterized by stiffness and its receptivity to writing inks. Index
paper is used whenever an extremely durable, stiff, inexpensive
paper is required, such as for tabs, pocket folders, signs, or flip
charts.
Speciality materials
This category includes transparencies, pressure sensitive labels,
transfer paper, and more. Refer to the chart Types of Paper for more
information on these materials.

COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

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23

HOW TO ORDER PAPER LIKE A PRO

Types of Paper
Grade and
Basis Size
(inches)

Common
Names

Features

Surfaces

Standard Sizes
(inches)

Weight
(lbs)

Weight
(g/m2)

Calliper
(mils)

Name of
Xerox paper

Business
papers
17x22

Bond, Forms,
Ledger,
Laser,
Xerographic,
Writing

Lightweight,
matching
envelopes,
pastels, light
colors, watermarked

Cockle, Laid,
Linen, Parchment, Ripple,
Wove

8.5x11, 8.5x14,
11x17, 12x18,
17x22, 17x28,
19x24, 18x28,
22x34, rolls

16, 30, 24,
28, 32

60, 75, 90,
105, 120

.002–.006 Color Xpressions
24, 28, 32 lb
Bright White

Premium
Text 25x38

Text

Deckle edged,
textured, wide
range of
colors

Antique,
Embossed,
Felt, Laid,
Linen, Vellum

8.5x11, 11x17,
12x18, 17.5x22.5,
23x35, 25x38,
26x40, rolls

70, 75, 80,
100

105, 113,
120, 150

.005–.008 Color Xpressions
24, 28 lb Bright
White, 28 lb Ultra
White

Uncoated
book
papers
25x38

Book, Offset, Easy folding,
Opaque
wide range of
colors

Antique,
Smooth,
Vellum, Wove

8.5x11, 11x17,
12x18, 17.5x22.5,
23x29, 23x35,
25x38, 35x45,
38x50, rolls

30, 35, 40,
45, 50, 60,
70, 80

44, 52, 59,
67, 75, 90,
105, 120

.003–.006 Color Xpressions
24 lb Bright White

Coated
book
papers
25x38

Coated,
Offset, Dull,
Enamel,
Gloss, Matte,
Slick

Good ink hold- Cast, Dull,
out, smooth
Embossed,
surfaces,
Gloss, Matte
usually white
only

8.5x11, 11x17,
12x18, 19x25,
23x29, 23x35,
25x38, 35x45,
38x50, rolls

Sheets; 60,
70, 80, 100
Rolls; 40,
45, 50, 60,
70, 80, 100

Sheets; 90, .003–.007 Color Xpressions
105, 120,
80 lb Gloss Coated
Text
180
Rolls; 59, 67,
75, 90, 105,
120, 180

Cover
20x26

C1S, C2S,
Cast coat,
Cover, Text,
Cover

Durable, stiff,
strong

8.5x11, 11x17,
12x18, 20x26,
23x35, 25x38,
26x40

50, 60, 65, 135, 160,
70, 80, 100; 175, 190,
8pt, 10pt
215, 270,
180, 220

.006–.015 Color Xpressions
80 lb Ultra White
Uncoated Cover;
80 lb Gloss Coated
Cover; 8, 10pt
High Gloss Coated
Cover

8.5x11, 22x28,
22.5x28.5, 23x29,
23x35, 24x36,
25.5x30.5, 28x44

90, 110,
125, 140,
170

.006–.050 Xerox 90 lb Index

Uncoated:
Antique,
Embossed,
Felt, Laid,
Linen, Smooth,
Vellum, Wove
Coated: Cast,
Dull,
Embossed,
Gloss, Matte

Index
25.5x30.5

Board, Bristol Stiff, strong,
thick

Antique,
Smooth,
Vellum, Wove

160, 200,
225, 250,
310

This chart summarizes the characteristics of papers for digital color copying and printing. It is not intended to be an
exclusive guide to ordering paper. Rather, use it to create new ideas for using papers in jobs. Remember, not all
paper in a grade comes in every combination of size, weight, and/or finish.
The size and weight combination of Xerox papers are underlined and in bold face type.
You may obtain the latest version of the Xerox Color Xpressions paper compatibility chart from our web site at
http://www.xerox.com

24

Contact your local authorized Xerox distributor, or call Xerox at 1-800-822-2200 in the USA,
or 1-800-668-0199 in Canada for our full line of media.
COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

HOW TO ORDER PAPER LIKE A PRO

Types of Paper
Specialty
Materials

Features

Surfaces

Standard Sizes
(inches)

Weight
(lbs)

Weight
(g/m2)

Calliper
(mils)

Name of
Xerox material

Transparency

Specially
coated for
crisp color
projection,
heat stabilized

Special coating 8.5x11
layers on a
plastic
substrate

–

–

0.004

Color Xpressions
3R5765 Digital
Color Removable
Stripe

Pressure
Sensitive Label

Variety of con- Uncoated,
8.5x11
figurations
Coated, (Gloss,
Matt, etc.)

–

–

Varies

Color Xpressions
3R5771, 4up
Glossy Label

Transfer Paper

Lasts longer,
image stands
up to more
washings

Specially
8.5x11, 11x17
coated for easy
image transfer
and improved
productivity

–

–

.003–.007 Xerox Transfer
Paper; 3R5811 for
8.5x11, 3R5812 for
11x17

Synthetic Films

Durable, tearproof, water
resistant

Smooth,
textured

8.5x11, 11x17

–

–

0.003 –
0.010

Newsprint

Inexpensive,
lightweight

Vellum

Rolls, 8.5x11,
11x17, 12x18,
13x19, 22x28,
24x36

Presentation
Folder

Easy to
assemble,
on-demand
presentation

Bright, white
folders for
sharp images

9x11

32, 40, 50,
60, 70, 80,
90, 100,
125, 150
–

52, 65, 81,
105, 114,
130, 146,
163, 203,
244

.003–.007

200

0.007

Xerox NeverTear
Paper
–

Color Xpressions
3R5570

This chart summarizes the characteristics of specialty materials for digital color copying and printing. It is not
intended to be an exclusive guide to ordering these materials. Rather, use it to create new ideas for using specialty
materials in jobs. Remember, not all materials come in every combination of size, weight, and/or finish.
The size and weight combination of Xerox materials are underlined and in bold face type.

COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

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25

HOW TO ORDER PAPER LIKE A PRO

Equivalent Paper Weights

Business
Papers

Book
Papers

Xerographic
Bond
Laser

Premium text
Uncoated book
Coated text/
book

Coated
Uncoated
Opaque

17x22”

25x38”

20x26”

Covers

Tag

Index

Bristol

Coated
Board
(Sold by calliper
not weight weights are
approximates)

24x36”

25.5x30.5”

22.5x28.5”

*Point Scale
(1pt = .001)

Basis Weight (in pounds, lb.)
20
9
10

12
13

16
18
20

26
28
30
33
35
38
40

24
28
32

45
50
55
60
70
80

36

90

57
50
90
67
40

100
105
110

6pt/150 µm
60
65

100

90
80
8pt/200 µm

120
70
125

110

80
125
88
90

100
120

150
12pt/300 µm

140
100
175

150

110
170
200
130

26

10pt/250 µm

g/m2
30
33
38
42
44
46
49
52
56
59
60
67
75
80
90
105
120
125
135
146
147
150
155
160
175
180
190
200
210
215
220
225
240
245
250
260
270
285
300
310
325
330
350

Contact your local authorized Xerox distributor, or call Xerox at 1-800-822-2200 in the USA,
or 1-800-668-0199 in Canada for our full line of media.
COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

HOW TO ORDER PAPER LIKE A PRO

X

X

X

Announcement

X

X

X

Art Reproductions

X

Back Lighting

X

Banners

X

Booklets

X

Brochures

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

Business Cards
Business Forms

X

Newsprint

X

X

X

X

Calendars

X

X

Catalogs

X

X

Certificates

X

Classroom Handouts

X

Diplomas

X

X

Synthetic
Film

Transfer
Paper

Specialty Materials

Labels

Index

Transparency

X

Cover

Index

X

Premium
Text
Uncoated
Book
Coated
Book

Xerographic

Annual Reports

Book Papers

Ledger

Laser

Forms

Bond

Business Papers

Coated and
Uncoated

Applications for Paper

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X
X
X

Direct Mailers

X

X

Directories

X

X

X

X

X

Fliers

X

X

X

X

X

Folders

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

Greeting Cards
Image Transfer

X

Index Cards
Letterhead

X
X

X

X

X

X

Magazines

X

X

X

Mailing Labels

X

Maps

X

Menus

X

X

X

X

X

X

Newspaper Inserts

X

X

Paperback Books

X

Newsletters

X
X

X

X

X

X

X

X

X

Newspapers

X
X

Point-of-purchase Displays

X

Posters

X

X

Postcards

X
X

Presentations

X
X

X

X

Product Identification
Resumes

X
X

X

X

X

X

X

Signs

X

Tags

X

X
X

Telephone Books

X

Tickets
Yearbooks

X

X
X

X

X

This chart reflects common applications for various types of paper. It is not intended to restrict usage or establish guidelines
to using paper in any of the categories.
COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

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HOW TO ORDER PAPER LIKE A PRO

How Paper is Measured in Terms of Weights and Sizes
Papers are packed in reams, cartons, and on skids. The more paper
you buy, the less you pay per unit. For example, buying a partial or
“broken” carton costs more per unit than a full carton.
Terms used to describe paper weight

•

Basis weight - In the United States and Canada, the basis
weight is equal to the weight measured in pounds of 500
sheets of paper cut to a specific size. For example: in
Business papers, the basis weight is 500 sheets of 17 x 22”
paper. Basis weight is also known as substance
(S or Sub) weight.

•

Grams - In countries using ISO paper sizes, g/m2 is the weight
in grams of one square meter of paper.

Refer to the Equivalent Paper Weights chart to obtain the
comparable basis and gram weight of papers.
Ways paper can be ordered

28

•

Ream – 500 sheets

•

Junior Carton – A case of ten reams.

•

Carton – Unit of paper weighing approximately 150 pounds
(60 kilos). Cartons contain 500-5,000 sheets depending on
size and basis weight.

•

Skid – Cartons stacked three or four high (depending on
weight) and wrapped in plastic. Skids in the USA and Canada
weigh about 2,500 lbs. (1,139 kilos). Skids from mills in the
rest of the world weigh 1,200 lbs. (540 kilos).

•

Carload (CL) – Unit of paper that may weigh anywhere from
20,000 to 100,000 pounds depending on the mill. Printers buy
carloads for use as house sheets.

Contact your local authorized Xerox distributor, or call Xerox at 1-800-822-2200 in the USA,
or 1-800-668-0199 in Canada for our full line of media.
COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

HOW TO ORDER PAPER LIKE A PRO

Paper sizes in the USA and Canada
Not all papers are available in all sizes. Paper size is dependent
upon the paper mill’s sheeting capabilities. Paper can typically be
ordered in three ways: Cut Sheet, Folio Sheet, and Web Rolls.

•

Cut Sheet United States – This paper is typically used on
small presses, laser printers and duplicators. Basis weight for
cut sheets is determined by the weight per unit area of a ream
of 500 sheets of paper.

•

Folio Sheet United States – These are used for sheet-fed
offset presses. Images are laid out in printer spreads from
which they can be later cut and folded into postcards,
booklets, brochures or other odd-sized documents. Folio
sheets can also be used to print custom-sized posters,
envelopes, boxes, and folders.

Standard cut sheet sizes:
8.5 x 11”
8.5 x 14”
11 x 17”

Standard folio sheet sizes:
25 x 38”
23 x 35”
19 x 25”
17.5 x 22.5”
11 x 17”
8.5 x 11”

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HOW TO ORDER PAPER LIKE A PRO

International Standards Organization (ISO) paper sizes
A0

ISO sizes are widely used in countries utilizing the metric system.
Paper sizes are named by having a letter designate the series of the
paper and a number to designate the size.

A series papers are used for general print.
A1

B series papers are used for wall charts and posters.
C series papers are used for folders, postcards and envelopes.
Numbers indicate sizes available within each series (i.e., 2A0, A0,
A1.) Each size is equal to half the preceding larger size. A prefix
may also be added to indicate whether the paper is cut to
accommodate normal trims (R) or special trims and/or bleeds (SR).

A3

A2

•

Cut Sheet ISO International
Standard ISO cut sheet sizes:

A5
A4
A6

A Series
4A0

ISO paper sizes are based on a
rectangular shape continually
divided in half. The rectangular
shape retains its proportions
regardless of how many times
it is halved.

•

B Series

1682 x 2378 mm

4B0

2000 x 2828 mm

2A0

1189 x 1682 mm

2B0

1414 x 2000 mm

A0

841 x 1189 mm

B0

1000 x 1414 mm

A1

594 x 841 mm

B1

707 x 1000 mm

A2

420 x 594 mm

B2

500 x 707 mm

A3

297 x 420 mm

B3

353 x 500 mm

A4

210 x 297 mm

B4

250 x 353 mm

A5

148 x 210 mm

B5

176 x 250 mm

A6

105 x 148 mm

B6

125 x 176 mm

A7

74 x 105 mm

B7

88 x 125 mm

A8

52 x 74 mm

B8

62 x 88 mm

A9

37 x 52 mm

B9

44 x 62 mm

A10

26 x 37 mm

B10

31 x 44 mm

Folio Sheet ISO International
RA and SRA sizes:

RA Series

30

SRA Series

RA0

860 x 1220 mm

SRA0

900 x 1280 mm

RA1

610 x 860 mm

SRA1

640 x 900 mm

RA2

430 x 610 mm

SRA2

450 x 640 mm

SRA3

320 x 450 mm

Contact your local authorized Xerox distributor, or call Xerox at 1-800-822-2200 in the USA,
or 1-800-668-0199 in Canada for our full line of media.
COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

HOW TO ORDER PAPER LIKE A PRO

How to Select the Right Texture/Finish
Some grades of paper are available in a variety of finishes.
Depending on which one you choose, a paper finish can be
responsible for the feeling or mood projected from a printed piece.
The right finish can add personality, richness, and appeal to your
document. The selection is virtually endless as paper manufacturers
continue to develop and market new finishes every day.
The following are descriptions of common paper finishes.
Smooth finishes

•

Satin – Also called dull finish, this coated stock has a reduced
gloss finish.

•

Gloss – This smooth shiny surface is coated and
Supercalendered, resulting in high reflective qualities. A
Supercalender is a series of polished stainless steel rollers
which compress the surface fibers and add gloss to the sheet.

•

Matte – Matte-finished papers are smooth with non-glare
surfaces; used for photographic or coated stocks.

•

Dull – Flat, reduced gloss finish on coated paper; slightly
smoother than matte.

•

Laser – Flat, smooth finish that is Supercalendered for
optimum performance on laser and xerographic equipment.

Rough finishes

COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

•

Vellum – Vellum is a rough, toothy paper Supercalendered
just enough to make the surface uniform.

•

Wove – A fine mesh screen used to make this paper leaves a
slight crosshatch or woven pattern on one side.

•

Laid – The wire used to create a laid finish leaves a “striped”
finish.

•

Felt – Richer, thicker papers that are ideal for embossing,
watermarks, or special textures.

•

Linen – Steel rollers emboss a pattern on both sides of the
paper to simulate a linen cloth pattern.

Visit our website at www.xerox.com

31

HOW TO ORDER PAPER LIKE A PRO

How to Specify Paper
Paper can be specified or ordered in several ways: from a mill,
paper distributor, paper retailer, supply catalog, print facility, or local
office supply store. The decision on where to order should be based
on quantity, paper stock and printing method. When ordering a few
reams, a catalog or office supply store is the best choice. For
ordering quantities by the carton, order from a paper merchant.
When ordering by the truckload, order directly from a mill.
Once you’ve decided on a paper and the best method for ordering,
you’ll need to be prepared to describe it clearly to prevent confusion.
Specifications needed to order paper include:

32

•

Brand name – The name of the entire line of paper made by a
specific mill.

•

Color – The exact name of the color as specified by the mill
(i.e., bright white).

•

Grade – Category, class, rating, finish or brand of paper (i.e.,
bond, book, cover, or text.)

•

Grain direction – Direction of the paper fibers. Long grain
means grain is parallel to the long dimension of the paper.
Short grain means grain is parallel to the short dimension.
Show grain direction by underlining the appropriate numeral
(i.e., a 20 x 26 sheet is a long grain paper).

•

Quantity – The number of sheets or pounds.

•

Quality – The numerical quality rating (i.e., # 1, # 2, # 3)
A number one grade is brighter and more costly.

•

Size – Sheet or roll size in inches or grams.

•

Texture or Finish – The roughness or smoothness of the
sheet (i.e., matte, gloss.)

•

Weight – Use the basis or sub weight listed in the sample
book or price page.

•

Coating – When ordering a coated stock, specify whether it is
coated on one side (C1S) or two (C2S).

Contact your local authorized Xerox distributor, or call Xerox at 1-800-822-2200 in the USA,
or 1-800-668-0199 in Canada for our full line of media.
COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

HOW TO ORDER PAPER LIKE A PRO

How to Cut Your Costs
Paper is one of the largest expenses of a print job. You can reduce
your costs significantly by following a few simple guidelines.
Ten ways to keep your costs down
1. Use standard sizes: Design your printed pieces to take maximum advantage of common sheet sizes. For example, in the
USA think in multiples of 8.5 x 11”.
2. Explore on-demand printing: Print up-to-the-minute forms,
manuals, catalogs, reports and other printed materials that are
suited to an on-demand print environment. This will reduce
over-runs and storage costs.
3. Use paper specifically designed for the equipment you’re
using: For example, paper designed specifically to optimize the
performance of xerographic equipment may significantly reduce
waste due to jamming and offer a better surface for dry ink
adhesion.
4. Reduce basis weight: Heavier basis weight sheets cost more
per sheet than lighter ones. Lighter weight stocks will also
reduce mailing costs.
5. Keep paper wrapped when not in use: Make sure paper is
wrapped in a moisture proof container to avoid moisture problems which may cause jamming, curl, and waste.
6. Consolidate print runs: Think about ways to consolidate jobs
so that you can order larger quantities of paper. Higher quantities will reduce your per unit cost.
7. Reduce size: Smaller sizes mean less paper (if within standard
sheet size dimensions). Look for ways to reduce the size and/or
number of pages in your printed piece.
8. Ask about price breaks: When planning a print job, ask your
paper retailer about ways to take advantage of price breaks. For
example, partial cartons cost 15-60% more than full cartons.
9. Use house sheets: Printers keep huge quantities of basic
papers in stock. Because they buy in volume, they are able to
get better prices and pass a savings on to customers.
10. Select the right paper for the job: Choosing the right paper is
key. Consider factors such as image quality, brightness, equipment choice, and end use (is folding required?). Then select a
paper that will ensure the best results.

COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

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33

USAGE GUIDELINES FOR XEROX COLOR COPIERS AND PRINTERS

Usage Guidelines for Xerox Color Copiers and Printers
Xerox has an ongoing materials test program where new papers
and other materials are continuously evaluated and approved for
use in specific Xerox copiers and printers. Your Xerox
representative can provide the address of World Wide Web site
where you can obtain the most current list of recommended
materials for your Xerox copier or printer.
This section of the Color Materials Usage Guide provides
information on materials that are commonly used in many Xerox
copiers and printers.

Standard (or Normal) Weight Papers (Uncoated)
Description and expectations
Standard weight papers include those that are run from the internal
trays:

•

16 - 28 lb, 64 - 105 g/m2 xerographic/bond papers

•

Papers within this range provide optimum performance when
used in Xerox copier/printers. The benchmark paper used to
define image quality and performance specification is
24 lb (g/m2) Color Xpressions Bright White. Refer to the
Recommended Materials list for your Xerox copier/printer for
the performance rating of other papers.

Use this bright, white paper to create color business reports, fliers,
newsletters, and resumes with impact.

34

Contact your local authorized Xerox distributor, or call Xerox at 1-800-822-2200 in the USA,
or 1-800-668-0199 in Canada for our full line of media.
COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

USAGE GUIDELINES FOR XEROX COLOR COPIERS AND PRINTERS

Heavy-Weight Papers
Contact your Xerox representative or visit the Xerox website for the
current list of recommended materials for your copier/printer.
Description and expectations
Heavy-weight papers can be classified as different weights of paper
for different machines. Always refer to the user guide for your copier/
printer for the weight range of heavy-weight papers acceptable for
that machine.
Compared to the benchmark 24 lb (90 g/m2) paper, heavy-weight
papers offer increased stiffness and as a result, must be run from
the (Also Called Tray 5). As paper weight and stiffness increases,
the likelihood of jams also increases. The possibility of image mottle
also increases because of the rough surface and coarse formation
of the paper.
Two-sided copying of heavyweight paper may not be recommended
for your copier/printer because of increased jams and degraded
image quality on the second side. Refer to the Recommended
Materials list for your machine for information on the paper weight
limit for two-sided copying.

Hints, tips and testing results
Extensive Xerox testing has shown the following:

•

When the recommended heavy weight papers are run as
recommended, with the correct tray, mode, orientation and
curl, feeding performance is good but should not be expected
to equal that of 24 lb (90 g/m2) Color Xpressions paper.

•

Image quality on the recommended papers is good, but should
not be expected to equal image quality on 24 lb (90 g/m2)
Color Xpressions paper. Image quality degradation is more
likely to occur as paper weight increases. The rough formation
of heavy papers increases the likelihood of mottle (light
patches) with some images. Mottle is more likely to occur on
images with uniform halftone areas. As humidity increases,
mottle usually increases.

COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

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35

USAGE GUIDELINES FOR XEROX COLOR COPIERS AND PRINTERS

Coated Papers
Contact your Xerox representative or visit the Xerox website for the
current list of recommended materials for your copier/printer.
Description and expectations
Coated papers have binders, adhesives, and pigments applied to
their surfaces on one or both sides. As compared to the benchmark
Color Xpressions 24 lb (90 g/m2) paper, coated papers provide
improved image gloss but will generally cause an increase in jams.
Two-sided copying or printing of coated papers may not be
recommended for your copier/printer because of more frequent jams
and likely image quality/offsetting problems. Contact your Xerox
representative for the current list of recommended materials for your
copier/printer.

Coated papers must be run with the curl side of the paper up and
the grain direction perpendicular to the lead edge.

CAUTION: Running coated papers with the grain direction parallel
to the lead edge, or with the curl side down can cause pressure roll
wrap jams requiring a service call.

CAUTION: Refer to the user guide for your copier/printer for the
maximum coated paper weight that can be run. Failure to adhere to
recommended weights may result in damage to the machine that
will require a service call.

36

Contact your local authorized Xerox distributor, or call Xerox at 1-800-822-2200 in the USA,
or 1-800-668-0199 in Canada for our full line of media.
COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

USAGE GUIDELINES FOR XEROX COLOR COPIERS AND PRINTERS

Hints, tips and testing results
Xerox testing has shown the following:

•

Coated papers are very susceptible to humidity. Image mottle
(light patches in solid areas) or light images overall will occur if
paper is not kept packaged in environments with more than
40% humidity. To avoid this, keep packages sealed, use
sheets from the center of the ream, or store unused paper in a
resealable bag. Multifeeds are also much more likely with
humidity greater than 40%.

•

Two sided copying (duplexing) of coated papers may not be
recommended for your copier/printer. The most common
problems are: (1) light image patches (mottle) and deletions
on side two, especially in large halftone areas; (2) image
offsetting. Image offsetting can be caused on side two by dry
ink contamination of rollers in the fusing system when the
sheet is run through again for the side two image, or on side
one by paper-to-paper contamination in the output tray.This is
most likely to occur with high density images and will usually
appear within the first 10 copies.
Offsetting will become worse as more copies are run and can
lead to permanent damage to the fuser and pressure rolls
requiring a service call. The extent of this problem can be
highly variable and is dependent on the type of image being
run and the condition and age of the machine.

COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

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37

USAGE GUIDELINES FOR XEROX COLOR COPIERS AND PRINTERS

•

If attempting to run two sided copies, run the side with the
lightest image, or the side with no color (black-only) on side
one, and the higher density, or the color image on side two.
Load the side one copies in the (Also Called Tray 5) so that the
trail edge of side one is used as the lead edge for side two.
While running side two, continuously monitor the copies as
they exit the machine. Look at the back side (side one) of the
copy to see of any image offsetting has occurred. If offsetting
is seen, stop the job immediately and clean the fusing system.
This condition will only get worse if more copies are run.
To clean the fusing system, run about 10 blank sheets of paper
through the machine. When the bottom side of the blank
sheets comes out clean, continue to run the side two copies.
To run a large quantity of two-sided copies, you may need to
intersperse short runs of two-copies between single-sided
runs to keep the fusing system from becoming contaminated
again.

•

Dry ink coverage on electronic originals should be limited to a
total of 280% (70% for each color). Higher dry ink coverage
can result in poorly fused prints.

If using a coated paper that has not been recommended, first try a
small quantity to test its performance, then consult your local Xerox
representative for agreement on its use.

38

Contact your local authorized Xerox distributor, or call Xerox at 1-800-822-2200 in the USA,
or 1-800-668-0199 in Canada for our full line of media.
COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

USAGE GUIDELINES FOR XEROX COLOR COPIERS AND PRINTERS

Recycled Papers
Description and expectations
Most recycled papers are made from a combination of new pulp,
waste from the paper-making process, and paper that has been
returned by consumers for recycling. Because the nature of paper
returned for recycling is unpredictable, recycled papers are less
uniform in content and quality than papers made from entirely virgin
fiber.
The recommended Xerox recycled papers offer the best feed
performance and image quality available. These papers undergo
exclusive screening procedures to minimize the amount of harmful
inks and plastic particles in the final product. The recommended
recycled papers will run well in Xerox copier/printers, but the
reduced smoothness, formation and brightness will result in
degraded image quality as compared to the benchmark Xerox
24 lb (90 g/m2) Color Xpressions paper.

Hints, tips and testing results
Xerox testing has shown the following:

COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

•

Severe image quality problems are likely if non-recommended
recycled papers are run. If you plan to use a recycled paper
other than the Xerox brand, first try a small quantity to test its
performance, then consult your local Xerox representative for
agreement on its use.

•

The wide variation in recycled paper fibers increases the
tendency for these papers to curl, which may result in jams. If an
obvious curl is detected, load that paper in the (Also Called Tray
5) with the curl side down for best feeding performance.

•

Two-sided copying with recycled papers is not recommended.
The inherently poor image quality of recycled papers only
becomes worse when the second side is run.

•

To avoid making a marginal material worse, all recycled papers
should be stored in sealed packages when not in use. Image
quality on exposed papers will degrade even more as humidity
increases.

Visit our website at www.xerox.com

39

USAGE GUIDELINES FOR XEROX COLOR COPIERS AND PRINTERS

Hole-Punched Papers
Description and expectations
Hole-punched papers have two or more holes along one edge for
use in ring binders and notebooks. This paper is often referred to as
predrilled paper. Most hole-punched papers that fit into the standard
paper size and weight ranges for Xerox copier/printers should run
reliably. The recommended hole-punched papers meet Xerox’s high
quality standards and will provide reliable feeding and good image
quality.

Hints, tips and testing results
Xerox testing has shown the following:

•

When copying from a hole-punched original onto hole-punched
paper, special actions must be taken to prevent the holes from
printing as dark spots on the copy. If your copier has an Edit
Pad, these spots can be eliminated by using the Delete Outside
editing feature to eliminate the holes. If you do not have an Edit
Pad, you can use the Image Shift or Edge Erase feature, or
place the original on the glass and cover the holes by placing a
white sheet of paper over the holes before copying.

CAUTION: Not using one of these methods will result in heavy
deposits of dry ink onto the copy paper at the hole area. This excess
dry ink will be transferred onto the back of copies/prints when the
next job is run. Permanent fuser damage can occur if this is done
repeatedly.

•

40

There are a wide variety of hole configurations available for
hole-punched paper. Not all variations have been tested.
Frequent jams are possible with some hole configurations.
Pretesting a small quantity is recommended before making a
large purchase.

Contact your local authorized Xerox distributor, or call Xerox at 1-800-822-2200 in the USA,
or 1-800-668-0199 in Canada for our full line of media.
COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

USAGE GUIDELINES FOR XEROX COLOR COPIERS AND PRINTERS

Pressure-Sensitive Labels
Contact your Xerox representative or visit the Xerox website for the
current list of recommended materials for your copier/printer.
Description and expectations
Pressure-sensitive label stock consists of three layers: the face
sheet, the pressure sensitive adhesive, and the backing or release
sheet. There are many types of face sheets and label weights
available. To avoid feeding and image quality problems, it is very
important to run labels with the correct balance of properties. The
recommended Xerox copier/printer labels have been specifically
designed to give optimum performance. They have low weight/low
stiffness for improved feeding. USA versions have a pattern-printed
adhesive (no adhesive within 1/16 inch of the edges of the sheets)
to reduce fuser contamination.
Refer to the Recommended Materials list for your copier/printer to
determine if you can run labels on your machine, and if so, which
labels are recommended.

Hints, tips and testing results
Xerox testing has shown the following:

•

When the recommended materials are run, with the correct
tray, mode and orientation, feeding performance and image
quality is good but will not equal the performance of 24 lb
(90 g/m2) Color Xpressions paper.

•

Do not use the Normal paper mode when running labels. Use
the Heavy Weight or Thick paper mode. See your
Recommended Materials list for more specific information.

•

In general, labels with a low weight face, backing sheet, and a
pattern-printed adhesive will run successfully. Overall weight
should be less than 203 g/m2. Run labels with the grain
parallel to the leading edge.
If attempting to use labels that have not been recommended,
first try a small quantity to test the performance, then consult
your local Xerox representative for agreement on its use.

CAUTION: Do not use dry gum labels (those that require moistening
before being applied) as they can cause severe machine
contamination problems.

COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

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41

USAGE GUIDELINES FOR XEROX COLOR COPIERS AND PRINTERS

Preprinted Papers
Description and expectations
This category encompasses a wide variety of materials. Offset
printed letterhead papers and xerographic prints within the
recommended paper weight range will feed reliably in Xerox copier/
printers. Copies produced on laser, ink jet, or dot matrix printers,
carbonless paper, raised/engraved papers, and preprinted forms,
using various inks (with and without MICR), have not been tested
and should be considered as not recommended.

Hints, tips and testing results
Xerox testing has shown the following:

42

•

Some inks from preprinted materials may cause deletions,
offsetting or contamination. Select a surface-drying, lasercompatible ink designed for reproduction on color copier/
printers. An example is TuffText by Vanson. Your offset printer
representative may be able to specify an ink with similar
characteristics.

•

Two-sided copying/printing onto preprinted materials is not
recommended. In many cases, deletions will occur if you
attempt to copy an image onto an area on side two that is
directly opposite a preprinted area on side one. The preprinted
area can disrupt the transfer of dry ink onto side two, causing a
deleted area. This can be due to the conductivity of the ink itself
or because the ink on side one caused a slight ripple in the
paper.

•

Always pretest a small amount of material to determine image
quality and feeding performance before purchasing a large
quantity.

Contact your local authorized Xerox distributor, or call Xerox at 1-800-822-2200 in the USA,
or 1-800-668-0199 in Canada for our full line of media.
COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

USAGE GUIDELINES FOR XEROX COLOR COPIERS AND PRINTERS

Single-Step Transfer Paper
Contact your Xerox representative or visit the Xerox website for the
current list of recommended materials for your copier/printer.
Description and expectations
Single step transfer papers enable you to transfer full color images
directly from copies or prints onto almost any fabric and other types
of materials. A popular application is image transfer onto T-shirts.
The recommended materials have been extensively tested and
have been selected to provide optimum performance.

Hints, tips and testing results
Xerox testing has shown the following:

COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

•

When the recommended materials are run as recommended
for your copier/printer, feeding performance will be good but
should not be expected to equal the performance of Xerox
24 lb (90 g/m2) Color Xpressions paper.

•

Refer to the Recommended Materials list for your copier/
printer for the correct mode to use when running transfer
papers.

•

To avoid problems (jams and poor image quality) caused by
both dry and humid environments, store Xerox transfer paper
in its resealable bag with desiccant pack. Other brands should
also be stored in resealed packages when not in use.

•

Dry ink saturation on electronic originals should be limited to a
total of 280% (70% for each color). Higher dry ink saturation
can result in poorly fused prints.

•

T-shirts consisting of a 50/50 blend of polyester/cotton provide
better image durability than shirts made of 100% cotton. Tight
weave fabrics (heavy T-shirts) provide better results than
loose knit fabrics (sweat shirts).

•

Thorough testing has not been done on brands of single step
transfer papers other than Xerox papers. High rates of
multifeed jams and potentially damaging fuser jams may be
encountered with brands that have not been recommended.
Run only the recommended materials.

Visit our website at www.xerox.com

43

USAGE GUIDELINES FOR XEROX COLOR COPIERS AND PRINTERS

Transparencies
Contact your Xerox representative or visit the Xerox website for the
current list of recommended materials for your copier/printer.
Description and expectations
Transparency stock is used primarily to create images that can be
projected onto a wall or screen. Transparencies are made of
polyester film that is specially coated to make dry ink readily adhere
to it. The base material and coating type are both very important in
the final quality of the projected image.
The recommended Xerox transparencies meet the critical
parameters for friction, clarity and dry ink adhesion required for
optimum feeding and color image quality. When run as
recommended, feeding performance will be good, but will not equal
the reliability of Xerox 24 lb (90 g/m2) Color Xpressions paper.

Hints, tips and testing results
Xerox testing has shown the following:

44

•

The Xerox Premium Transparencies, USA/Canada 3R5765,
provide brighter, cleaner colors than other standard
transparencies.

•

Some Xerox copier/printers can run paper-backed
transparencies. Refer to the Recommended Materials list for
your copier/printer to determine if they are recommended or
not.

•

Be careful when handling transparencies. Dry ink cannot
penetrate into the surface of the transparency. Therefore, any
damage to the surface of the transparency will affect the
quality of the image.

Contact your local authorized Xerox distributor, or call Xerox at 1-800-822-2200 in the USA,
or 1-800-668-0199 in Canada for our full line of media.
COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

USAGE GUIDELINES FOR XEROX COLOR COPIERS AND PRINTERS

•

A light, oily residue may be present on the transparency after
copying. This residue will eventually disappear, but it may be
removed by gently wiping the surface with a cloth or tissue.

CAUTION: If you cannot find or clear a transparency that is jammed
in the copier/printer, do not run another transparency or paper copy.
Damage to the machine will occur if another sheet is run while a
transparency is jammed in the fuser area and out of your viewing
area.

CAUTION: Do not attempt to remove a transparency that is firmly
jammed in the fuser. Only a Xerox service representative should
attempt to remove this type of transparency jam.

COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

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45

USAGE GUIDELINES FOR XEROX COLOR COPIERS AND PRINTERS

This page is intentionally blank.

46

Contact your local authorized Xerox distributor, or call Xerox at 1-800-822-2200 in the USA,
or 1-800-668-0199 in Canada for our full line of media.
COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

GLOSSARY

Glossary

A

Book Papers:
Category of paper suitable for books, magazines,
catalogs, advertising and general printing needs.
Book paper is divided into uncoated paper (also
called offset paper), coated paper (also called art
paper, enamel paper, gloss paper, and slick paper),
and text paper in a wide variety of basis weights,
colors, and finishes.

Acid-free paper:
Paper made from pulp containing little or no acid
so it resists deterioration from age. Also called
alkaline paper, archival paper, neutral pH paper,
permanent paper and thesis paper.
A4 paper:
ISO paper size 210 x 297mm used for letterhead.

Brightness:
The reflective ability of a paper at a standard
wavelength.

B

Business paper:

Base stock:

Also called bond paper. Designation for printing
papers with textured surfaces such as laid or linen.
Some mills also use text to refer to any paper they
consider top-of-the-line, whether or not its surface
has a texture.

A paper that can be further processed.
Basic size:
The standard size of sheets of paper used to
calculate basis weight in the United States and
Canada.

C

Basis weight:
In the United States and Canada, the weight, in
pounds, of a ream (500 sheets) of paper cut to the
basic size. Also called ream weight and substance
weight (S or Sub weight). In countries using ISO
paper sizes, the weight, in grams, of one square
meter of paper. Also called grammage and ream
weight.
Bleed:

Abbreviations for coated one side and coated two
sides.
Calendar:
To make the surface of paper smooth by pressing it
between rollers during manufacture.
Caliper:

Printing that extends to the edge of a sheet or page
after trimming.
Blocking:
Sticking together of printed sheets causing
damage when the surfaces are separated.
Bond paper:
Category of paper commonly used for writing,
printing and photocopying. Also called business
paper, communication paper, correspondence
paper, and writing paper.

COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

C1S and C2S:

Thickness of paper or other substrate expressed in
thousandths of an inch (mils), pages per inch (ppi),
thousandths of a millimeter (microns) or pages per
centimeter (ppc).
Carbonless paper:
Paper coated with chemicals that enable transfer
of images from one sheet to another with pressure
from writing or typing.
Carload:
Selling unit of paper that may weigh anywhere from
20,000 to 100,000 pounds (9,090 to 45,454 kilos),
depending on which mill or merchant uses the
term. Abbreviation is CL.

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47

GLOSSARY

E

Carton:
Selling unit of paper weighing approximately 150
pounds (60 kilos). A carton can contain anywhere
from 500 to 5,000 sheets depending on the size of
sheets and their basis weight.
Cast-coated paper:
High gloss, coated paper made by pressing the
paper against a polished, hot, metal drum while the
coating is still wet.

Electronic publishing:
Providing information in electronic (digital) form to
a xerographic, laser, ink jet, or other electronic
printing device.
Embossed finish:
Pattern on the surface of a paper achieved by
pressing it against an engraved metal roll.
Enamel paper:

Coated paper:
Usually a glossy paper with a smooth surface, but
sometimes dull coated.

Also known as coated paper, with a high gloss.
English finish:

Cockles:

Most commonly used for magazines, it is a smooth,
calendered finish.

Wrinkles and spots in paper that are defects.

Equilibrium Moisture content:

Cover paper:

The inability of a paper to absorb moisture when its
moisture content equals the relative humidity of the
environment.

Category of thick paper used for products such as
posters, menus, folders and covers of paperback
books.

Equivalent weight:

Curl:

The term used to denote the respective weights of
the same paper of two different sheet sizes.

The bending of paper as a result of differences on
each side.
Cut-Size:
Paper used for printing and copying.

F
Felt:

D

The fabric belt that carries the water and pulp
through the papermaking machine.

Deletion:
Spots on an image where the dry ink is missing.
Dimensional stability:
The degree to which paper maintains its form as a
result of environmental changes.
Dual-purpose bond paper:
Bond paper suitable for printing by either
lithography (offset) or xerography (photocopy).
Abbreviated DP bond paper.
Dull finish:
Also called dull coated. Low gloss,
supercalendered paper.

48

Felt finish:
Soft woven pattern in text paper. It is applied at the
wet end of a paper machine.
Felt side:
Side of the paper that was not in contact with the
Fourdrinier wire during paper making, as compared
to wire side. Felt side of the paper is recommended
for receiving printing and giving the best results.
Film laminate:
Thin sheet of plastic bonded to a printed product
for protection or increased gloss.

Contact your local authorized Xerox distributor, or call Xerox at 1-800-822-2200 in the USA,
or 1-800-668-0199 in Canada for our full line of media.
COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

GLOSSARY

Graphics:

Fine papers:
Papers made specifically for writing or commercial
printing, as compared to coarse papers and
industrial papers. Also called cultural papers and
graphic papers.

A visual representation formed by writing, drawing,
photography or engraving.
Groundwood pulp:
A wood pulp that has not been chemically
processed, and which is used to make an
economical paper such as newspaper.

Finish:
Surface characteristics of the paper, such as
vellum, antique, or smooth.

Gummed paper:

Formation:

Paper with an adhesive coating on one side.

Describes the distribution of fibers on a sheet.
When held to a light, a paper with good formation
will appear even and consistent, whereas with poor
formation it will appear splotchy and uneven. Poor
formation can cause mottle or uneven, spotty dry
ink distribution in images with high solid area
coverage.

H
Heavy weight paper:
Papers classified as having a basis weight greater
than 105 gsm (i.e., 28 Ib business papers, 40 Ib
Cover, 70 Ib book papers).

Form bond:
Lightweight bond, easy to perforate, made for
business forms.

I

G

Index paper:

Gloss:
Characteristic of a paper that makes it shine.
Grade:
The classification given to paper due to its unique
characteristics, which includes brightness, opacity,
cotton content, etc.
Grain:
The direction of fibers in a paper due to their flow
on the papermaking machine.
Grain direction:
The direction of the fibers in paper. Grain long is
when fibers run in the same direction as the
longest side of the sheet. Grain short is when the
fibers run in the direction of the shortest side of the
sheet.

A stiff stock used when an extremely durable,
inexpensive paper is required. With a rough
surface and poor formation, it does not provide
good quality for color images.
Insert:
A printed brochure or single page that is inserted
and bound with the regular copy in a publication.
ISO sizes:
Widely used in countries utilizing the metric
system, these sizes are named by having a letter
designate the series of the paper and a number to
designate the size.

Grammage:
Metric method of measuring the basis weight of
paper.
Graphic arts:
The name given to the various segments and
processes that are used in producing printed
products.

COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

Visit our website at www.xerox.com

49

GLOSSARY

L

N

Laser bond:

Natural color:

Bond paper made especially smooth and dry to run
well through laser printer.
Leaf:

Very light brown color of paper. May also be called
antique, cream, ivory, off-white, or mellow white.
Neutral gray:

One page in a book.
Lead edge:

Gray with no hue or cast.
Newsprint:

The edge of the paper that feeds first into the
copier.
Ledger paper:

Paper used for printing newspapers, made from
groundwood or mechanical pulp.
Non-impact printing:

A durable, smooth business paper with a heavy
basis weight used for keeping business records.

Printing using lasers, ions, ink jets or heat to
transfer images to paper. Abbreviated NIP.

Letter paper:
In North America, 8.5 x 11" sheets. In Europe, A4
sheets.

O
Opacity:

Lightfastness:

Characteristic of paper or other substrate that
prevents printing on side from showing through to
the other.

The amount of resistance of a color of ink or paper
to any kind of light. Also known as colorfastness.
Lightweight paper:

Opaque:

Book paper with a basis weight of less than 40 lb
(60 gsm).

The more opaque a sheet of paper is, the less
transparent it is. High opacity in printing papers is a
good characteristic as print from the other side of a
printed sheet has less show-through.

M
M value:
The weight of some materials is described by the
M value printed on the package (i.e., 21.64M). The
M value is the weight in pounds of 1,000 sheets of
the size of the paper in the package. To convert the
M value to gsm for 8.5 x 11” paper, multiply the M
value by 7.527. To convert the M value to gsm for
11 x 17” paper, multiply the M value by 3.763.
Matte finish:

Page:
One side of a leaf in a publication.
Page-per-inch:
Also known as PPI, it is the number of pages in a
one inch stack of papers.
Pixel:

A flat, dull, low gloss finish on photographic paper
or coated printing paper.
Mottle:

Short for picture element, a dot made by a
computer, scanner, or other digital device.
Point (pt.):

Spotty or uneven image areas of printing.

50

P

The measure of paper thickness. One point is onethousandth of an inch.

Contact your local authorized Xerox distributor, or call Xerox at 1-800-822-2200 in the USA,
or 1-800-668-0199 in Canada for our full line of media.
COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

GLOSSARY

Shadows:

Printability:
The ability of paper to be reproduced with high
quality printing.

Darkest areas of a photograph or illustration, as
compared to midtones and highlights.
Short grain:

Publishing paper:
Paper made in weights, colors, and surfaced suited
to books, magazines, catalogs and free-standing
inserts.

Paper with the fibers paralleling the shortest side of
the sheet
Show through:
When paper allows the see-through of printing
from the other side. Increased opacity of paper
reduces this problem.

Q
Quick printing:

Side stitch:

Printing using small sheetfed presses, called
duplicators, using cut sizes of bond and offset
paper.

To bind by stapling through sheets along one edge,
as compared to saddle stitch.
Signature:
A section of a book that contains 4, 8, 16, 32, etc.,
pages (depending on the size of the paper and
press) that fold into one unit after printing.

R
Ream:

Size:

500 sheets of paper.

Compound mixed with paper or fabric to make it
stiffer and less able to absorb moisture.

Recycled paper:
Paper manufactured from used paper pulp.
Resolution:
Sharpness of an image on film, paper, computer
screen, disc, tape, or other medium.
Runability:
The capacity of a paper to perform on the press
without difficulties.

Skid:
A wooden form on which a large quality of paper or
printed matter is shipped.
Smooth finish:
A finish on paper that has been made smooth by
passing through various rollers.
Stock:
Another name for the paper on which printing will
be done.

S

Stocking papers:

Saddle stitch:
The method of binding pamphlets or small books
with staples.
Satin finish:

Substance weight:

A finish on paper that is smooth like satin. It is an
alternate term for dull finish on coated paper.
Score:
An indentation made in paper or cover stock to
make folding easier. Also called crease.
Shade:
Hue made darker by the addition of black, as
compared to tint.

COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

Popular sizes, weights and colors of papers
available for prompt delivery from a merchant’s
warehouse.

Another word for basis weight.
Substrate:
Any surface or material on which printing is done.
Supercalendered paper:
Paper calendered using alternating chrome and
fiber rollers to produce a smooth, thin sheet.
Abbreviation: SC paper.

Visit our website at www.xerox.com

51

GLOSSARY

W

SWOP:
Abbreviation for Specifications for Web Offset
Publications.

Wire side:
Side of the paper that rests against the Fourdrinier
wire during papermaking, as compared to felt side.
Writing paper:

T

A paper with a hard surface which makes it good
for writing on it with pen or pencil.

Text paper:
Designation for printing papers with textured
surfaces such as laid or linen. Some mills also use
“text” to refer to any paper they consider top-of-theline, whether or not its surface has a texture.

X
Xerographic paper:

Trail edge:
The edge of the paper that feeds last into the
copier

A strong, durable paper used for electrostatic
photocopiers and printers.

Translucent papers:
Papers that will allow information to be seen
through them but not totally clear like an acetate.

U
Uncoated paper:
Paper that has not been coated with clay. Also
called offset paper.

V
Vellum finish:
Somewhat absorbent, rough, toothy finish.
Virgin paper:
Paper made exclusively of pulp from trees or
cotton, as compared to recycled paper.

52

Contact your local authorized Xerox distributor, or call Xerox at 1-800-822-2200 in the USA,
or 1-800-668-0199 in Canada for our full line of media.
COLOR MATERIALS USAGE GUIDE

G

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XEROX ®, The Document Company® and the digital X are trademarks of XEROX CORPORATION.

The Next Generation of
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Xerox, The Document Company®, the digital X and all Xerox products
mentioned herein are trademarks of XEROX CORPORATION.



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