MATERIALS · 5 MIN READ

100lb gloss book vs. 100lb gloss cover: which stock fits your brochure?

Choosing between text weight and cover weight for your brochures is the difference between an agile, lightweight mailer and a rigid, luxurious presentation piece. Here is the technical breakdown.

The Practical Difference: Hand-Feel and Rigidity

In paper manufacturing, Book stock (also called Text stock) is flexible paper. Cover stock is cardstock. When an 8.5" x 11" tri-fold brochure is folded:

• 100lb Gloss Book: Folds into a neat, razor-thin package. When stacked in boxes of 1,000, it occupies minimal space, weighs roughly 11.5 pounds, and fits easily into mail slots. When placed in a rack, it requires a support backing or pocket to prevent bowing forward over time.
• 100lb Gloss Cover: Folds into a thick, hefty, substantial piece. It stands upright in a display pocket without slouching or curling. In the recipient's hands, it feels like an expensive invitation or corporate annual report.

The Importance of Machine Scoring on Heavy Stocks

Paper consists of tightly compacted wood fibers. When you fold paper, the fibers on the outside of the fold must stretch around the curve. On thin book papers, the fibers stretch without incident.

On heavy cardstocks (like 100lb Cover or 14pt Cardstock), folding without scoring causes the fibers and surface coating to crack, leaving an unsightly white jagged line across full-color photos. Commercial presses solve this with inline machine scoring—pressing a crease into the paper before the fold blade engages, ensuring flawless, unblemished edges.

Choosing by Distribution Channel

• Direct Mail & Bag Inserts: Choose 100lb Gloss Book to minimize shipping weight and postage fees.
• Hotel Racks & Retail Counters: Choose 100lb Gloss Cover so your brochure remains standing tall in the display pocket through weeks of handling.
• High-Ticket Sales Meetings: Choose 100lb Gloss Cover with Satin Matte for an unmistakable executive tactile experience.