AQ (Aqueous Coating) is a light water-based coating with mild protection and a clean look; Matte Finish is low-shine and reduces glare but can show fingerprints on dark designs; UV (High Gloss) is very shiny, makes colors pop, adds strong protection, and creates more glare under lights.
Coatings (AQ/UV/Matte Finish) give a standard finish with moderate protection for everyday needs, while lamination (gloss or matte/silk) adds a thin plastic film that usually feels thicker and more premium with stronger scuff resistance - best for items handled often.
Soft Touch is a specialty lamination with a smooth, velvety feel and low-glare premium look, but it’s not glossy, not scratch-proof (dark solid areas can show scuffs), and it’s not intended to be reliably writable.
Pearl is a bright stock with subtle shimmer for elegant pieces; Kraft is natural brown with a rustic/organic look; Linen is textured and uncoated with a classic refined feel; Enviro has a recycled/uncoated natural eco-style appearance where the paper itself becomes part of the design.
Writable (C1S) means “Coated 1 Side”: one side is coated for sharper printing and richer color, and the other side is uncoated so it’s intended for writing.
Usually no - UV, lamination, and Soft Touch finishes aren’t designed for handwriting, so ink can smear, take too long to dry, or rub off; choose Writable (C1S) or an uncoated stock if you need a writing surface.
4mm is the most common for typical yard signs and general outdoor use; 6mm is more rigid for larger signs and longer-term use; 8mm adds extra stiffness for bigger signage or more wind/handling; 10mm is the most rigid with a sturdier, more premium feel.
Aluminum is best for long-term outdoor durability and weather resistance; Sintra (PVC) is a rigid plastic board for indoor and sheltered outdoor use; Styrene is a thinner plastic for indoor signage/inserts with less rigidity; Foam Board is lightweight for indoor short-term use and isn’t recommended outdoors.
Paper roll labels are cost-effective for general indoor use but aren’t waterproof; BOPP is a waterproof plastic film ideal for moisture/oils/refrigeration and frequent handling; Poly is another durable plastic film option suited for tougher-use applications depending on the job.
pt measures thickness (higher pt generally means thicker/stiffer), while lb measures paper weight based on a standard sheet count within a paper category - higher lb often feels heavier/stiffer within the same category, but it’s not a perfect thickness comparison across different paper types.