Can you guess what the most common width of plotter paper is?
If you guessed “24 inches” you know how to look for context clues.
If you’re searching for “24 plotter paper” you’re in luck because it’s the industry standard width for plotter paper rolls.
Here’s our guide to everything you need to know about plotter paper.
What Is 24 Plotter Paper?
There are many different dimensions to consider when shopping for plotter paper. Most of the time “24” will refer to “24 inches.” Which denotes the width of wide format rolls.
Architects and architectural drafters use 24-inch paper the most. 12 X 18 and 18 X 24 are some of the most commonly used sizes for architectural renderings. Engineers and organizations that follow the. International Standards Organization typically use paper of a slightly different scale.
The width will be the first number in the plotter paper roll measurement. For example, you might see a package labeled 24″ X 500′. This means that the width of the roll (how wide it is) is 24 inches.
The “500” refers to the length of the paper-wrapped up into the roll. So, theoretically, if you were to unravel the entire paper roll, it would be 500 feet long. Most rolls are sold as one continuous roll that’s cut by built-in cutters on the printer, but, you can also find paper sold as sheets.
Thicker and specialty paper usually comes in shorter lengths around 100 feet. The thickness of the paper is expressed by the term “caliper” and is measured by units called “mils.” This is where understanding the weight of the plotter paper is helpful.
Wide-format paper is also advertised by weight, like “24 lb” or “20lb.” Knowing the weight will help you decide the value and the price of the roll.
How to Choose the Right Paper Rolls
So how do you know which plotter paper specs are right for you? Are any “better” than others? The answer to that depends on the type of machine you’re using to print.¬†
Most printer paper is made for either inkjet or xerographic (also called laser or LCD) printers.¬†It’s important to pick paper specifically designed to work with the type of printer you’re using. Inkjet and laser printers operate in very different ways and the wrong paper could sabotage your project.
Wide format inkjet printers create designs by dripping thousands of colorful dots. This type of print job needs paper that can support the weight of fresh, wet ink. It also needs to be designed to control the ink so that it doesn’t bleed throughout the paper.
Laser printers work through a process of transferring digital designs using toner and heat. The type of paper that¬†supports this type of printing is designed differently. It’s also designed to better support CAD plots and line drawing renderings.
Types of Plotter Paper Rolls
Surprisingly to most first-time buyers, the options don’t stop with specs and the type of printer you’re working with. There are dozens of different types of paper that can be used for both laser and inkjet printers.
Some¬†of the most common terms you’ll see while shopping for plotter paper is “coated” and “bond.” Coated paper has a top coating to support color printing. The purpose for this can be both aesthetic or function, like optimizing the ink drying and distribution process.
For example, most photo paper is coated. Both laser and inkjet bond paper is not coated. This type of paper is less expensive and used for more “behind the scenes” print jobs than for designs that will be advertised or presented to clients.
A “premium bond” paper is coated and durable. This type of paper is bright white and made to produce brilliant colors and detail. It’s usually water-resistant and made to be shared and saved.
You’ll also find translucent and vellum plotter paper. Both of these types of paper are transparent. This means that they don’t require as much ink.
Vellum is considered to by higher quality. It’s usually made with 100% cotton and is commonly used for archival purposes. General “translucent” paper is more affordable because it’s intended to be used more for drafting and less to be saved.
Best Priced 24 Wide Format Paper
It’s highly disappointing to spend time searching for the right paper, spending money on it, and then having it not live up to your expectations. That’s what inspires us to produce the best quality paper possible.
One of our top-selling papers is our “Premium Coated Inkjet Bond Paper.” It’s strong, water-resistant, and made to support dye and pigment inks and even more colorful printing systems. This paper is used for printing everything from storefront signs and displays to event posters and maps.
Our inkjet vellum paper is made for superior archival print jobs. It’s delicate, translucent, and made to avoid paper jams and smudges. Our 24 inkjet vellum is sold in one-roll packages.
Another best-seller is our “Double Matte Engineering Mylar Film”. This product is made for engineering copiers. It produces clean prints that dry quickly and ready for presentations.
Another customer favorite is our 24 fast-speed Blueline/Diazo paper. This is the industry go-to for high-volume printing with printers that use Diazo, PD activators, and ammonia. This paper is the best option for superior blueprints at an unparalleled value.
Buying 24 Plotter Paper
All of the information about 24 plotter paper might seem overwhelming at first. But once you start printing and you find your perfect roll, you’ll quickly forget there was ever a time you didn’t know which plotter paper to buy.
You can count on us for a versatile, high-quality selection at fair prices. Our paper sells out quickly after it’s in stock. Reserve your order now!
