"Paper for flags" Topic

Can anyone point me at a suitable paper for printing 15mm flags? Paper must be suitable for inkjet.

I used to print on 80gsm glossy, but cannot remember brand or supplier, and can't seem to find anyone who supplies it anyway.

Regular photo paper at 180gsm+ is simply too thick.

I have always used regular paper, my flags then get clear flat lacquer spray, some have to be 20 years old and holding up well.

Loads on Amazon

Like 14Bore I use ordinary paper (the current pack is Mondi economy IQ 80g/mē), don't use water based glue (like PVA) to stick the two sides together (I use Uhu), and I varnish with Ronseal matt coat polyurethane wood varnish.

I've heard that if you glue in a layer of tin foil you get good results.

I use a 100gm smooth, hi-res paper, but make sure that is not coated in any way as the coating will shed as you fold the flag.

I print my flags with a laser to get denser and brighter colours but inkjet performance today isn't much inferior.

I always stick flags using PVA, never had any problems and it makes them easier to replace if damage happens – just a dash of water and they soak off with no damage.

tinytintroops.co.uk

"I always stick flags using PVA, never had any problems…" with a laser printer you will be fine, but the water in PVA can make inkjet ink run.

"… but the water in PVA can make inkjet ink run."

I usually hit the inkjet- printed flags with a spray of acrylic clear varnish before mounting; I've had no issues with inks running.

>>but make sure that is not coated in any way

Untrue.
Unless you use 'coated paper' you are going to get a rough, material like texture far beyond what inkjet ink can hide. Something in the 90-130 gsm range should be suitable.
The coating is there to provide a smooth and even surface for ink coverage and density.

Line the flag with a light weight aluminium foil (we used to use lead sheet) to make folds and shape variations. Dry 24 hours before changes.

Anyone who's using PVA that rewets the paper and soaks in disturbing dried inks, is either using too much, or a much too chemical form of it altogether. Good for wood and boards, glueing down figures, not so fine paper.
FWIW, d