Material
Coated Paper (C1S / C2S)
C1S and C2S art paper for high-fidelity print. The standard substrate for cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and any category that needs photographic reproduction.
Coating
C1S (one side) · C2S (two sides)
Weight range
128–350 gsm
Surface
Matte, silk, gloss
Print methods
Offset, digital, gravure
Best for
Cosmetics, pharma, retail cartons
Recyclable
Yes (coating does not impede recycling)
FSC certified
On request
MOQ
50 units
Overview
What it is.
Coated paper — also called C1S (coated one side) or C2S (coated two sides) art paper — is paper with a surface coating of clay, calcium carbonate, or similar mineral that fills the fiber network and creates a smooth, low-porosity printing surface. The result is sharp dot reproduction, vivid color, and the kind of high-fidelity print that kraft and recycled papers cannot match.\n\nC1S is coated on one side only — typically the outside of a folding carton, with the uncoated side inside for glue adhesion. C2S is coated on both sides — for cartons that need print on the inside as well, or for use as the wrap on a rigid setup box.
C1S vs C2S: when to choose which
C1S is the standard for folding cartons. The coated side is the outside (where the print goes), and the uncoated side is the inside (where the glue bonds to the side panel and where the product sits). The uncoated side has higher friction and higher absorbency, both of which are useful in a folding carton context.
C2S is the right choice when you need print on both sides of the paper — for a luxury rigid box wrap where the inside is also printed, for a sleeve that wraps a product with the print visible from the back, or for any format where the reverse side is visible to the consumer. C2S is also marginally stiffer than C1S of the same weight.
Surface finishes: matte, silk, gloss
Matte coated paper has the lowest reflectivity and the most contemporary, editorial feel. It is the default for cosmetics, skincare, and luxury brands that want to communicate premium without flash. Silk is between matte and gloss — some reflectivity, less than gloss, more than matte. Gloss is the highest reflectivity and the most vibrant color reproduction; it is the standard for mass-market consumer goods, for boxes that will be photographed under bright lighting, and for any format where the print should be the visual hero.
The choice of surface finish often matters more than the choice of ink. A matte surface in CMYK can look more premium than a gloss surface in CMYK + spot gold. We can send surface samples on request.
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Frequently asked
Questions about coated paper (c1s / c2s).
What is the difference between C1S and C2S?
C1S is coated on one side (outside of a folding carton). C2S is coated on both sides (for two-sided print or rigid wrap).
Is coated paper recyclable?
Yes — the mineral coating does not impede the recycling process. The fiber is recovered and the coating is washed out in the pulper.
Can you print photographic images on coated paper?
Yes — that is the primary reason to choose coated paper. We can match PMS colors, run CMYK, and add spot colors as needed.
What weight is standard for folding cartons?
250–350 gsm is the standard range. Below 250 gsm, the carton is too flexible; above 350 gsm, the score lines crack.
Is coated paper food-safe?
Yes — the mineral coating is inert. We can supply FDA-compliant material certificates for food-contact applications.
What is the difference between art paper and coated paper?
They are the same category. Art paper is the Asia-market term; coated paper is the North American term. We use both interchangeably.
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