Metallic Paper

This speciality paper features a metallic finish that can be coated to be matte or glossy. Most commonly used as a decorative paper, metallic paper actually also offers protective elements to products that are light and moisture sensitive.

  • Puncture and moisture resistant
  • Glossy metallic finish
  • Ideal for light sensitive products

Best Used With

close-up of glossy metallic paper sheet showcasing reflective gold finish used for premium packaging

Overview

Coated in a layer of aluminum, metallic paper is a unique paperboard material primarily used for its decorative features. Metallic papers are available in matte and glossy finishes and can also feature smooth or crumpled textures. Although metallic paper is most popular for its elegant shimmering glimmer, it also offers protective features to your products. The aluminum effectively reflects light and repels moisture, making this material and ideal candidate for products such as pharmaceuticals that may be light or moisture sensitive. Because metallic paper is eye catching on its own, it is not very common to print on this material. However, it is possible to offset print and then UV print to ensure the surface is dry and ink won’t move around or smudge.

Cardboard Thickness

Visual display of multiple cardboard sheets arranged by thickness levels from 12pt to 28pt

Paperboard Thickness and Grammage Conversion Table

Basestock Properties (Units)Nominal Basis Weight (GSM)Caliper (Inches)Thickness (Microns)Commonly Used For
12pt250gsm0.012”305μBags
14pt275gsm0.014”356μTakeout Boxes, Cups
16pt300gsm0.016”406μHeavy duty bags, Takeout Box
18pt350gsm0.018”456μAll box packaging
24pt400gsm0.024”610μHeavy duty boxes
28pt527gsm0.028”710μVery heavy duty boxes

Process

diagram showing the layer structure of packaging materials including paperboard glue metallic layer and printing lacquer