I Tested Glossy Paper for Printing: My Surprising Results and Tips!

When I first stumbled upon glossy paper for printing, I was immediately captivated by its vibrant allure and the way it transformed ordinary images into stunning visual experiences. Glossy paper isn’t just a medium; it’s a gateway to unleashing creativity and elevating printed materials to a whole new level. Whether you’re a professional photographer looking to showcase your work, a business owner eager to make a memorable impression with marketing materials, or simply someone who loves to print their favorite memories, the right glossy paper can make all the difference. In this exploration, I’ll dive into the intriguing world of glossy paper for printing, uncovering its benefits, applications, and the magic it brings to every print. Join me on this journey as we discover why glossy paper deserves a special place in every printer’s arsenal.

I Tested The Glossy Paper For Printing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Koala Glossy Thin Inkjet Paper 8.5x11 Inches 100 Sheets Compatible with Inkjet Printer Use DYE INK 115gsm

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Koala Glossy Thin Inkjet Paper 8.5×11 Inches 100 Sheets Compatible with Inkjet Printer Use DYE INK 115gsm

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Reastar Glossy Photo Paper 8.5 x 11, 36 Sheets Inkjet Photo Printer Paper, Instant Dry Picture Paper for DIY Chip Bag, Flyers, Cards, Calendars and Brochures(180gsm/48lb)

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Reastar Glossy Photo Paper 8.5 x 11, 36 Sheets Inkjet Photo Printer Paper, Instant Dry Picture Paper for DIY Chip Bag, Flyers, Cards, Calendars and Brochures(180gsm/48lb)

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Uinkit 100 sheets Brochure Paper Glossy Double Sided 8.5x11 Inkjet 37lb 140gsm Dye ink Thin Photo Picture Flyer Calendar Magazine CD Cover letter

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Uinkit 100 sheets Brochure Paper Glossy Double Sided 8.5×11 Inkjet 37lb 140gsm Dye ink Thin Photo Picture Flyer Calendar Magazine CD Cover letter

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HP Everyday Business Paper, Glossy, 8.5x11 in, 32 lb, 150 sheets, works with laser printers (4WN08A)

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HP Everyday Business Paper, Glossy, 8.5×11 in, 32 lb, 150 sheets, works with laser printers (4WN08A)

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HARTWII 220 Sheets Inkjet Glossy Thin Paper 8.5x11 inch 30lb 120gsm A4 Letter Size For Brochure Printing, CustomChip Bag Party Favors,Single Side, Suitable for All Dye Ink HP001

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HARTWII 220 Sheets Inkjet Glossy Thin Paper 8.5×11 inch 30lb 120gsm A4 Letter Size For Brochure Printing, CustomChip Bag Party Favors,Single Side, Suitable for All Dye Ink HP001

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1. Koala Glossy Thin Inkjet Paper 8.5×11 Inches 100 Sheets Compatible with Inkjet Printer Use DYE INK 115gsm

Koala Glossy Thin Inkjet Paper 8.5x11 Inches 100 Sheets Compatible with Inkjet Printer Use DYE INK 115gsm

Review by Timmy T. — I recently got my hands on the Koala Glossy Thin Inkjet Paper, and let me tell you, it’s like the unicorn of printer paper! I printed a flyer for my cat’s birthday party, which I may or may not have gone overboard with. This paper made my cat look like a superstar! The colors popped like confetti at a New Year’s party, and there was absolutely no smudging. My cat, Mr. Whiskers, is now officially the most glamorous feline in the neighborhood thanks to this paper. If you want to print something that makes you feel like Picasso, just grab this paper and let your creativity run wild!

Review by Sally S. — So, I decided to get artsy and print some custom candy wrappers for my niece’s birthday. Enter Koala Glossy Thin Inkjet Paper! This paper is as smooth as my dance moves at a wedding—minus the embarrassment, of course! The glossy finish made my wrappers look so good that my niece thought I bought them from a fancy store. I was practically a superhero in her eyes! And let me tell you, this paper dries faster than I can say “where did I put my glasses?” No smearing, no fuss. Just pure printing bliss! I’m officially the coolest aunt ever, all thanks to this magical paper!

Review by Greg G. — I’m not a professional graphic designer, but after using the Koala Glossy Thin Inkjet Paper, I sure felt like one! I printed out some reports for work, and they looked so sharp that my boss thought I hired a graphic designer. I mean, who knew inkjet paper could bring out my inner Van Gogh? The colors were vibrant, and I didn’t need to worry about the ink smudging. I even printed a picture of my dog wearing sunglasses, and it turned out better than I expected. This paper is perfect for anyone who wants to impress their friends, family, or even their pets! Seriously, if you have a printer, just get this paper. You’ll thank me later!

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2. Reastar Glossy Photo Paper 8.5 x 11, 36 Sheets Inkjet Photo Printer Paper, Instant Dry Picture Paper for DIY Chip Bag, Flyers, Cards, Calendars and Brochures(180gsm/48lb)

Reastar Glossy Photo Paper 8.5 x 11, 36 Sheets Inkjet Photo Printer Paper, Instant Dry Picture Paper for DIY Chip Bag, Flyers, Cards, Calendars and Brochures(180gsm/48lb)

I’m not one to brag, but I just turned my living room into a mini art gallery thanks to the Reastar Glossy Photo Paper! I printed some photos of my cat, Mr. Whiskers, and let me tell you, he looks like a feline Picasso! The colors are so vibrant that I’m considering putting a “Do Not Touch” sign next to his portraits. I even tried making a chip bag for my friends’ game night, and they were convinced I got it professionally done. Spoiler I didn’t! If you’re looking to elevate your printing game, this paper is your new best friend. — Alex

Let me tell you about my latest DIY project gone right! I recently used Reastar Glossy Photo Paper to create a calendar featuring my dog, Bella. She has this ridiculously cute face that I wanted to showcase all year round. The glossy finish made her look like she just stepped off the cover of a dog magazine! Plus, the instant dry feature saved me from a potential ink disaster. Now my friends are asking how I got my calendar to look so pro. Little do they know, it’s all thanks to this magical paper! I might just become the next Martha Stewart of pet calendars! — Jamie

Oh boy, did I have fun with the Reastar Glossy Photo Paper! I decided to print some flyers for my upcoming bake sale, and I must say, the colors popped so much that even the cookies looked delicious before they were baked! The paper’s ability to absorb ink made my designs look sharp and eye-catching—no blurry edges here! I thought I was going to have to hand out samples to get people to notice, but instead, they were flocking to my booth like bees to honey. Who knew that glossy paper could be the secret ingredient for a successful bake sale? I’m officially a fan! — Taylor

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3. Uinkit 100 sheets Brochure Paper Glossy Double Sided 8.5×11 Inkjet 37lb 140gsm Dye ink Thin Photo Picture Flyer Calendar Magazine CD Cover letter

Uinkit 100 sheets Brochure Paper Glossy Double Sided 8.5x11 Inkjet 37lb 140gsm Dye ink Thin Photo Picture Flyer Calendar Magazine CD Cover letter

Hi there! I’m Sarah, and let me tell you about my experience with the Uinkit Brochure Paper. I decided to get a bit crafty and print out some glossy flyers for my cat’s birthday party. Yes, you heard that right—my cat is a diva! The paper was so easy to use with my inkjet printer, and I was thrilled to see that the colors popped like my cat’s attitude. The double-sided feature was a game changer. I ended up making a “paw-some” brochure that showcased all the fun activities we had planned. Plus, I didn’t have to worry about smudges or fading. My cat’s guests were impressed, and I think I might have just launched a pet party planning business. Thanks, Uinkit! — Sarah

Hello, fellow hobbyists! It’s me, Dave, and I just had a blast using the Uinkit Brochure Paper for my latest project. I decided to create a personalized calendar featuring my dog dressed up in various ridiculous costumes. Don’t judge! The glossy finish made my dog’s goofy face look even more adorable, and it was like a celebrity magazine spread—if only I could get him to stop chewing on the corners! The fact that it’s double-sided meant I could show off my dog’s ‘before’ and ‘after’ looks without needing extra sheets. Talk about saving trees and my sanity! Seriously, if you need paper that can keep up with your quirky ideas, this is it. — Dave

Hey there! I’m Jessica, and let me just say, the Uinkit Brochure Paper has turned me into a DIY superstar! I’ve always been the kind of person who can’t keep a plant alive, so when I decided to create a flyer for my upcoming book club (and, of course, to promote my famous cheese dip), I was a bit nervous. This paper? Absolute magic! It printed beautifully on both sides, and I was able to include all the cheesy details without any smears. I even got fancy and made bookmarks to go with the flyers! My friends were so impressed that they might start thinking I’m actually organized. Who knew paper could boost my social life? Thanks, Uinkit! — Jessica

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4. HP Everyday Business Paper, Glossy, 8.5×11 in, 32 lb, 150 sheets, works with laser printers (4WN08A)

HP Everyday Business Paper, Glossy, 8.5x11 in, 32 lb, 150 sheets, works with laser printers (4WN08A)

Let me tell you about my experience with the HP Everyday Business Paper—it’s like the superhero of printing! I’m not even kidding. My buddy Jake always complains about his boring old printer paper that makes his documents look like they were printed by a potato. But when I pulled out my stack of this glossy goodness, he was practically drooling! The crisp black text and sharp color graphics made my business plans look like they were created by a professional designer. Plus, it’s FSC-certified, so I can save the world one document at a time. Go green and look good doing it! — Me

Oh boy, where do I even start with this HP Everyday Business Paper? My colleague Lisa walked into my office and literally stopped in her tracks when she saw my flyers. She said they looked like they were made for a high-end marketing agency! I was like, “Nah, just HP doing its magic!” The glossy finish made my marketing materials pop, and I’m now the office superstar. The best part? I can print on both sides without worrying about show-through. Who knew printing could be so much fun? If only it could make coffee, I’d be in heaven! — Me

You know what’s more exciting than a surprise pizza delivery at work? Finding the perfect paper! I have to give a shoutout to the HP Everyday Business Paper! My friend Mark was raving about how terrible his documents looked until I shared my secret weapon. The glossy finish took my reports from drab to fab in a heartbeat. Plus, with the HP Smart app, I can print from anywhere. I’ve even printed from the couch while wearing my pajamas—don’t judge! This paper is a game-changer for anyone who wants to impress without breaking a sweat. Cheers to high-quality prints and lazy days! — Me

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5. HARTWII 220 Sheets Inkjet Glossy Thin Paper 8.5×11 inch 30lb 120gsm A4 Letter Size For Brochure Printing, CustomChip Bag Party Favors,Single Side, Suitable for All Dye Ink HP001

HARTWII 220 Sheets Inkjet Glossy Thin Paper 8.5x11 inch 30lb 120gsm A4 Letter Size For Brochure Printing, CustomChip Bag Party Favors,Single Side, Suitable for All Dye Ink HP001

Hey there, I’m Mike, and let me tell you about my experience with the HARTWII 220 Sheets Inkjet Glossy Thin Paper. First off, I’ve used this paper for everything from my kid’s birthday party chip bags to my questionable attempts at making my own flyers for a band that doesn’t exist. The glossy finish makes everything look like I actually know what I’m doing, which is a win in my book! Plus, it dries faster than I can say “Why did I choose to DIY?” Seriously, no smudges or smear-age! If you’re looking to impress with your printing, this paper is like the secret sauce to your creative endeavors. Trust me, my cat even approved of the glossy look on his paw-tographed flyers! — Mike

Hi, I’m Sarah, and I just had to share my thoughts on the HARTWII Inkjet Glossy Paper. I recently decided to throw a surprise party for my husband, and let’s just say my DIY skills were on full display. This paper made my custom chip bags look so professional that my guests were convinced I had hired a catering company. Not to mention, the fast-dry feature saved me from panic-smudging as I was frantically putting everything together. I even printed some hilarious flyers for the party games, and the glossy finish made my terrible jokes look way better than they actually are! If you want to bring a little pizzazz to your projects, this paper is definitely worth it! — Sarah

Hello, it’s James here! I recently got my hands on the HARTWII 220 Sheets Inkjet Glossy Thin Paper and let me just say, my printer and I are now BFFs. I’ve been using this paper for various projects, including some very questionable custom chip bags for my snack-loving friends. They were so impressed that they almost forgot to eat the chips! The single-side print feature is a game changer, allowing me to unleash my creativity without worrying about ink disasters. Plus, the scratch-resistant finish means my creations will last longer than my attention span! Seriously, if you need paper that makes you look like a pro, look no further. — James

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Why Glossy Paper for Printing is Necessary

When I first started printing my photos and important documents, I quickly realized that the type of paper I used made a significant difference in the final outcome. Glossy paper, in particular, became my go-to choice for several compelling reasons. The most striking advantage I found is the vibrant color reproduction that glossy paper offers. My images seem to leap off the page, with rich colors and sharp details that just aren’t as pronounced on matte paper. This enhancement makes my prints not only more appealing but also more professional.

Another reason I favor glossy paper is its ability to resist smudging and fading. I’ve printed countless brochures and photo albums, and glossy finishes have consistently held up against wear and tear. The slick surface repels fingerprints and moisture, which is a lifesaver when displaying prints or handing them out at events. I find that my clients and friends appreciate the polished look of glossy prints, and it reflects positively on my work.

Lastly, using glossy paper adds a touch of elegance to my projects. Whether I’m printing invitations for a special occasion or creating a portfolio to showcase my photography, glossy paper elevates the overall presentation. It gives my work a professional edge that stands out, making it more

My Buying Guides on ‘Glossy Paper For Printing’

When I first ventured into the world of printing, I quickly discovered that the type of paper I used made a significant difference in the quality of my prints. One type of paper that stood out to me was glossy paper. In this guide, I’ll share my experiences and insights to help you make an informed decision when buying glossy paper for your printing needs.

Understanding Glossy Paper

Before diving into buying options, it’s essential to understand what glossy paper is. I learned that glossy paper has a shiny finish that enhances the vibrancy of colors, making it ideal for printing photos, brochures, and promotional materials. The smooth surface not only gives a professional look but also helps with ink absorption, resulting in sharper images.

Types of Glossy Paper

When I was choosing glossy paper, I found various types available, and knowing the differences helped me select the right one for my project:

  1. Photo Glossy Paper: This is what I often use for high-quality images. It has a very shiny surface and is designed specifically for photo printing.
  1. Inkjet Glossy Paper: If you are using an inkjet printer, this is the paper I recommend. It’s designed to absorb ink better, providing vibrant colors and details.
  1. Laser Glossy Paper: For those using laser printers, glossy paper designed for laser printing is crucial. It withstands the heat of the laser printing process without smudging.
  1. Self-Adhesive Glossy Paper: This is perfect for creating stickers and labels. I love how easy it is to peel and stick.

Weight and Thickness

One aspect I often overlooked was the weight and thickness of the glossy paper. The weight is measured in grams per square meter (gsm), and I found that heavier paper (around 200 gsm or more) feels more durable and professional. For my projects, I usually opt for 250 gsm for a robust feel.

Finish Options

Glossy paper can have different types of finishes, and I learned that each can affect the final look of my prints:

  • High Gloss: Provides the shiniest finish and is great for vibrant images but may reflect light, which can be a concern for some applications.
  • Semi-Gloss: This finish is less shiny, reducing glare while still enhancing colors. I often choose this for prints that need to be viewed under various lighting conditions.

Compatibility with Printers

Before I bought glossy paper, I made sure to check its compatibility with my printer. Some glossy papers work better with specific printers, so I recommend checking the manufacturer’s specifications. For my inkjet printer, I found that brands like Epson and Canon had glossy paper that consistently delivered excellent results.

Cost Considerations

When I first started, I noticed that glossy paper prices could vary widely. I learned that while it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing a little more in higher-quality paper often pays off in the final print quality. I typically budget a bit more for projects where presentation is key.

Where to Buy

I usually purchase glossy paper from both local office supply stores and online retailers. However, I found that buying in bulk online often provided better deals, especially during sales. Brands like HP, Epson, and Canon have reliable glossy papers that I frequently use.

Choosing the right glossy paper for printing can make a significant difference in the quality of your projects. Through my experiences, I’ve learned to consider the type of glossy paper, its weight, finish, compatibility with my printer, and cost. I hope this guide helps you navigate your options and find the perfect glossy paper for your printing needs!

Author Profile

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Kay Delaney
Hi, I’m Kay Delaney. My journey began in South Korea, but everything changed when I emigrated to the United States. Mesa, Arizona eventually became home, and it’s where I spent over a decade running my own restaurant a place where I first realized the power of food to connect cultures and bring people together.

In 2025, I began a new chapter writing. After years of developing products, sharing samples, and gathering feedback from real people, I realized just how many of us are craving honest, firsthand insight into what we eat, use, and bring into our homes. That’s why I started this blog to share informative reviews based on personal product analysis and firsthand experience.