Choosing the Best Poster Paper for Your Print Project

Whether you’re looking to create a stunning visual for your storefront, focusing on promoting an upcoming event, or showcasing your artwork – the type of paper you choose can make a world of difference to your prints. From silky A4 Poster paper to huge heavy-duty weatherproof options, there’s a lot to consider when choosing which Poster paper for your needs.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the various paper stocks available at Printed.com. We’ll explain the differences between the materials, suggest the best use cases, and help you make an informed choice. By the end, you’ll know exactly which Poster paper will give your project the most punch.

Image credit: Eve Print Studio

Indoor Poster Papers

If you’re designing an Indoor Poster display – like for a shop window, classroom, reception, or office – your main focus should be on the presentation and the finish. Indoor environments protect your artwork from the elements, so opt for a paper stock that enhances vibrancy and clarity.

Depending on the Poster size you choose, different paper options are available to suit your project and budget.

A4 and A3 Poster Papers

Small format Posters such as A4 and A3 are perfect for noticeboards, mini campaigns, and personal artwork. Printed.com currently offers two high-quality paper options for these sizes: Silk and Uncoated. 

Silk Paper

Silk paper offers a luxurious feel and a smooth, low-sheen surface. It’s a favourite for professional-looking A3 and A4 Poster paper because it provides sharp detail, brilliant colour, and a soft finish without the high shine of gloss.

Regardless of where your Poster is headed, Silk helps your content stand out while still looking refined. It’s especially good when you want to strike a balance between image richness and readability.

Uncoated Paper

Uncoated paper offers a completely matte texture, with no surface coating. This gives it a more organic, tactile feel and makes it the best choice for Posters that need to be written on such as event schedules, hand-filled charts, or rotating menus.

It’s also ideal for text-heavy Posters where readability is key, or when you want to create a minimalist or vintage look.

Image credit: TBCo

A2 and Larger Poster Papers

For larger Posters – A2 and above – you’ll need something slightly different. At this size, you’ll want a finish that maintains image clarity at scale while offering durability. Printed.com offers two main indoor paper types: Satin and Matt.

Satin Paper

Satin Poster paper has a soft sheen finish that enhances colour and contrast without being overly shiny. It’s a versatile option that suits nearly any design.

The Satin option gives the Poster paper excellent body and durability without becoming too rigid or heavy. If you’re looking for a print that looks high-end and feels substantial, this is a great choice.

Matt Paper

Matt Poster paper gives you a clean, non-reflective finish that’s ideal for highly legible text and designs with subtle detail. It’s often used in galleries, offices, or educational settings where glare-free viewing is essential.

If you’re printing Posters to be displayed under strong lighting or behind glass, a Matt finish is a smart (yet stylish) option.

Silk Paper

A Silk paper is available in three different gsm weights for A2 Posters only. Silk paper is a popular choice, offering a smooth, low-sheen finish that feels luxurious to the touch. It delivers sharp detail and vibrant colour while avoiding the high shine of gloss.

Image credit: Sunshine by Daniel

Outdoor Poster Papers 

Posters destined for the great outdoors face an entirely different set of challenges. Rain, sun, wind and general wear-and-tear can all compromise your design. Fortunately, Printed.com offers a range of weather-resistant materials to keep your Poster looking crisp, clear, and professional – no matter what life throws at it.

Let’s explore the outdoor options, each tailored to different conditions and requirements.

Blueback Poster Paper

Blueback paper is specifically designed for outdoor advertising campaigns, especially where Posters will be pasted over existing ones. The blue reverse coating prevents show-through, ensuring your new message isn’t muddied by what lies beneath.

This paper is water-resistant and works brilliantly for short-term Posters on billboards or display panels. It’s also cost-effective, making it perfect for large-volume campaigns that need to hit the streets fast.

Weatherproof Poster Paper

When durability matters most, Weatherproof Poster paper is your best friend. This synthetic material is tearproof, waterproof, and resistant to fading, making it ideal for long-term outdoor use.

If you’re advertising an event in unpredictable British weather, or posting signage that needs to stay put for weeks or even months, Weatherproof paper will hold strong. It’s especially popular with outdoor venues, real estate companies, and local councils.

Image credit: Printed.com

Mesh Poster Material

Mesh material is a unique option designed for areas prone to high winds. Thanks to its tiny perforations, mesh allows wind to pass through without damaging the Poster or mounting surface. It’s lightweight, durable, and perfect for construction fencing, festival barriers, and scaffolding covers.

If you’ve ever seen a Banner fluttering like a sail, you’ll understand why Mesh is a smart choice for breezy environments.

PVC Free Eco Poster Material

Looking for an environmentally friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality? Our PVC free eco material delivers strength and durability with a lower environmental impact. This is a great choice for businesses looking to reduce their plastic use while still needing a weather-resistant outdoor solution.

PVC Poster Paper

Also known as Vinyl Poster material is a tried-and-tested option for tough outdoor applications. It’s heavy, hardwearing, waterproof and UV-resistant, making it suitable for long-term installations in exposed environments.

Image credit: Basic B Designs Studio

Can printed Posters be laminated?

Yes, we offer lamination options for Posters to enhance durability and longevity. 

However, for Outdoor Posters, we recommend using one of the specific papers like above to ensure resistance to environmental elements.

Poster Paper GSM Guide:

What is GSM?

Paper GSM stands for Grams per Square Metre and is a measurement of paper thickness and weight. It tells you how much one square metre of the paper weighs in grams. So, the higher the GSM, the thicker and sturdier the paper will feel.

Here’s a quick guide to what different GSM levels typically mean:

• 80–100gsm: Standard printer or copier paper – lightweight and ideal for everyday use.
• 120–170gsm: Thicker paper, often used for Letterheads, Leaflets and Flyers, or Posters.
• 200–250gsm: Thin card – commonly used for high-quality Posters, Brochures, and covers.
• 300–400gsm: Cardstock – heavier, more rigid material used for Business Cards, Postcards, and premium covers.

Indoor Poster Paper Gsm:

• Silk – 250 gsm
• Silk (A2 only) – 200 gsm
• Uncoated – 120 gsm
• Uncoated (A2 only) – 100gsm, 200 gsm or 250 gsm
• Satin – 190 gsm or 235 gsm 
• Matt – 120 gsm 

Outdoor Poster Paper Gsm:

• Blueback – 130 gsm
• Weatherproof – 200 gsm 
• PVC Banner – 450 gsm
• PVC Free Banner – 270 gsm 
• Mesh Banner – 270 gsm 

Image credit: Bare Bones Chocolate

What Poster paper Sizes are Available? 

We offer a range of standard and custom sizes as part of our Poster printing services: 

• A0 Poster Print (841 x 1189 mm) 
• A1 Poster Print (594 x 841 mm) 
• A2 Poster Print (420 x 594 mm) 
• A3 Poster Print (297 x 420 mm) 
• A4 Poster Print (210 x 297 mm) 
• 500mm x 700mm
• 700mm x 1000mm
• 20″ x 30″
• 30″ x 40″
• 40″ x 60″

Additionally, we provide custom sizing so long as your print meets the following maximum or minimum specification:

• Maximum print size available is 1500 x 6000 mm. 
• Minimum print size available is 304 x 427 mm.

Image credit: Printed.com

Which Poster Paper Is Right for You?

Here’s a quick comparison to help guide your choice:

Printed.com offers a wide variety of Poster paper stocks for both indoor and outdoor use, with professional quality printing and quick turnaround. Don’t see an option that fits all of your needs? Speak to our Bespoke Service team to create something as truly unique as your brand. 

Image credit: The Decorative Touch Co

Why Choose Printed.com for Poster Printing?

At Printed.com, we’ve worked with businesses, artists, educators and event organisers to produce stunning Posters that make an impact. Whether you’re after high-volume paper Poster printing, bespoke A3 Poster paper runs, or weatherproof signage for the outdoors, we’ve got the tools and experience to deliver.

Plus, we offer:

• Sustainable print options
• Custom sizes and formats
• Next-day delivery on selected items
• Helpful support from our UK-based team

When you’re thinking about the best Poster paper for your project, remember – it’s not just about the design. It’s about how the paper makes that design pop, perform, and last.

Ready to Print Your Perfect Poster?

From 200gsm paper for large-format brilliance, to eco-friendly and weatherproof solutions, we’ve got everything you need for powerful Poster printing.

Explore our range of indoor and outdoor Poster paper options online and get your next project off to a flying start. And if you’re unsure what’s best? Just ask. Our team is happy to help you find the perfect match.

Shop Poster Paper Options at Printed.com Today