INTRODUCTION
You’ve designed the perfect trifold brochure.
Strong headline.
Clear structure.
Great visuals.
But here’s the twist
If you choose the wrong paper, it can instantly make your business look cheap.
The #1 mistake most businesses make?
They focus on design and ignore paper quality.
And in print marketing, paper is perception.
Let’s break down exactly what paper is used for trifold brochures and which option makes your brand look professional.
What Paper Is Typically Used for Trifold Brochures?
Most professional trifold brochures are printed on:
✔ 170gsm to 300gsm paper stock
✔ Gloss, silk (satin), or matte finish
✔ Art paper (coated stock)
The Most Common Choice:
170gsm silk or gloss paper
Why?
It’s thick enough to feel professional but flexible enough to fold cleanly without cracking.
Understanding GSM (Why It Matters)
GSM = Grams per Square Metre.
It measures paper thickness and weight.
Here’s a simple guide:
| GSM | Feel | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 130gsm | Thin | Budget leaflets |
| 170gsm | Professional standard | Most trifold brochures |
| 250gsm | Thick and sturdy | Premium brochures |
| 300gsm | Very thick | Luxury marketing materials |
For trifold brochures, flexibility is important.
Too thin → feels cheap.
Too thick → cracks when folded.
That’s why 170gsm or 250gsm is usually ideal.
Gloss vs Matte vs Silk, Which Is Better?
This is where many businesses get confused.
1️⃣ Gloss Finish
- Shiny surface
- Colours appear vibrant
- Great for images and photos
- Slight glare under strong lighting
Best for: Restaurants, travel, product showcases.
2️⃣ Silk (Satin) Finish
- Smooth with slight sheen
- Balanced colour depth
- Professional look
- Easy to read text
Best for: Corporate, services, healthcare, property.
👉 This is the most popular choice for business trifold brochures.
3️⃣ Matte Finish
- No shine
- Softer, elegant look
- Easy to write on
- Colours slightly muted
Best for: Luxury brands, minimal design, appointment-based services.
5 Benefits of Choosing the Right Paper
- Professional thickness → Solves “cheap brand” perception
- Smooth folding → Prevents cracking and damage
- High-quality finish → Enhances colour impact
- Durability → Reduces wear and tear
- Better tactile feel → Builds subconscious trust
Here’s what most business owners don’t realise:
People judge your service quality based on how your brochure feels.
That’s authority bias in action.
Should You Laminate a Trifold Brochure?
For most trifold brochures, lamination is optional.
However:
✔ Use lamination for menus or price lists
✔ Use lamination for high-end presentations
✔ Avoid thick lamination if heavy folding is required
Soft-touch lamination creates a premium feel but it increases cost.
Common Paper Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Choosing 130gsm to save money
❌ Using 300gsm without proper scoring (causes cracking)
❌ Picking gloss for text-heavy brochures
❌ Ignoring fold lines and paper grain
Remember:
A brochure must fold smoothly and feel sturdy.
If it bends awkwardly, the customer notices.
And if they notice the paper they’re judging the brand.
How to Choose the Best Paper for Your Business
Ask yourself:
- Is this image-heavy or text-heavy?
- Do I want vibrant or elegant?
- Will it be handled frequently?
- What impression do I want to create?
Quick Recommendation:
- Standard Business Use: 170gsm silk
- Premium Look: 250gsm silk or matte
- Luxury Brand: 250gsm matte + soft-touch finish
If you’re unsure, always request a printed sample before placing a large order.
Final Thoughts, Paper Is Part of Your Brand
Before:
Good design on cheap paper → weak impression.
After:
Professional paper choice → stronger brand trust and higher perceived value.
The purpose of choosing the right paper isn’t just durability.
It’s perception.
And perception influences buying decisions more than most people realise.
👉 Ready to print trifold brochures that feel as professional as they look?
Contact Social Media Max today.
Don’t wait your competitors won’t.