Why Print on Synthetic Paper Stocks?

Colorful sheets of synthetic paper
Vibrant colors add to the versatility of synthetic paper stocks.

One of the biggest decisions you can make when it comes to your print project is which paper stock to print on. Color, weight, and texture are all important elements to consider when selecting paper for any print run.

Here’s another factor you may not have considered: whether your project is best printed on a synthetic stock.

While traditional paper is made from wood pulp and natural fibers, synthetic stocks are produced using polypropylene resin. Though these stocks are crafted from a different substrate, they maintain the look and feel of wood-based paper, with some added benefits.

3 Reasons to Choose Synthetic Stocks

1. Durability

The additional materials present in synthetic paper stocks increase its durability over traditional paper. Synthetic stocks resist tearing, withstand extreme temperatures, deter greases and chemicals, and can even stand up to total submersion in water!

2. Appearance & Quality

Your logo and brand colors will print clearly and crisply on synthetic stocks, and last longer than standard paper for many applications. Waterproof paper looks like traditional paper, with a smooth feel, and can be printed using a standard laser printer.

3. Versatility

Political printing door hangers on synthetic paper
Synthetic paper is available in die cut sheets, handy for printing items like door hangers.

Synthetic paper is an ideal solution for items that are handled frequently, like menus or memberships cards, as well as pieces that are used primarily outside, such as parking signs or field manuals. Since the paper can get wet, it can also be wiped down for a quick refresh. The sky truly is the limit when it comes to what these stocks can be used for!

Some popular ways to use synthetic stocks include…

  • Restaurant Menus
  • Drink Menus
  • Recipe Cards
  • Place Mats
  • Membership & ID Cards
  • Outside Signage & Posters
  • Door Hangers
  • Parking Passes
  • Maps
  • Training Manuals
  • Bookmarks
  • Loyalty Cards
  • Playing Cards
  • & More!
Temporary license plate printed on synthetic paper
Temporary license plates will stand up to the elements when printed on synthetic paper.

The Case for Synthetic Paper vs. Laminate

beer list menu printed on synthetic paper
Synthetic paper is an ideal choice for food and drink menus.

Synthetic stocks are commonly used as a replacement for print jobs that would normally be laminated. Items such as menus that are handled frequently or outdoor signage that is likely to get wet are two cases where laminating the paper is a common choice to extend longevity.

While laminating has long been a common practice, it does have its disadvantages. For one thing, it takes additional time—first the piece must be printed on a digital press, then pass through a laminating machine, which is problematic if you’re in a time crunch.

Laminated pieces also tend to crack or peel over time, allowing moisture to come in contact with the paper. Not only does this damage your print piece, it also doesn’t look the best.

Unlike laminate, synthetic stocks are entirely waterproof—there’s no need to worry about cracking or peeling. They can also be die cut, scored, and folded, allowing for an increased number of uses over laminate, which must remain flat. Synthetic stocks are also time savers, since the finished piece can be completed in just one pass through the printer, no additional processing necessary.

Interested in using a synthetic paper for your next project? Contact our team to get started!