Not all red packets are created equal. Learn the differences between coated paper, specialty paper, pearl paper, kraft paper, and metallic foil — plus which finish works best for your brand.
Why Paper Choice Matters for Custom Red Packets
The paper you choose for your custom red packets directly affects how your brand is perceived. A luxury hotel chain handing out flimsy coated paper envelopes sends a very different message than one presenting thick pearl paper packets with gold foil. The material is the first thing recipients touch — and first impressions stick.
This guide breaks down every paper type commonly used in custom red packet production, with practical advice on when to use each one.
The 5 Main Paper Types for Red Packets
1. Coated Art Paper (200gsm–300gsm)
Best for: Volume orders, promotional events, budget-conscious brands
Coated art paper is the industry standard for red packet production. It offers vibrant color reproduction, smooth surface for detailed printing, and the best cost-per-unit at scale.
Weight: 200gsm (economy) to 300gsm (premium feel)
Finish: Matte or gloss lamination
Pros: Excellent color vibrancy, cost-effective, widely available
Cons: Less tactile distinction compared to specialty papers
Price range: $ (most affordable)
2. Pearl / Shimmer Paper
Best for: Weddings, luxury events, premium brand gifting
Pearl paper has a subtle iridescent sheen that catches light beautifully. It instantly elevates the perceived value of your red packets without needing heavy embellishment.
Weight: 180gsm–250gsm
Colors: White pearl, gold pearl, pink pearl, silver pearl
Pros: Elegant sheen, premium feel, photo-worthy
Cons: Higher cost, limited printing compatibility (some inks don't adhere well)
Price range: $$$
3. Metallic Foil Paper
Best for: Festival celebrations, CNY premium editions, maximum visual impact
Metallic foil paper is pre-coated with a thin layer of metallic finish (gold, silver, red gold). When combined with debossing or spot UV, the effect is stunning.
Weight: 150gsm–200gsm
Colors: Gold, silver, rose gold, holographic
Pros: Maximum festive sparkle, eye-catching, great for photography
Cons: Can show fingerprints, requires careful handling
Price range: $$$
4. Kraft Paper
Best for: Eco-friendly brands, rustic aesthetics, artisan packaging
Kraft paper offers a natural, earthy look. It's 100% recyclable and biodegradable — perfect for brands positioning themselves as environmentally conscious.
Weight: 120gsm–250gsm
Colors: Natural brown, bleached white kraft
Pros: Eco-friendly, unique rustic aesthetic, cost-effective
Cons: Limited color range, less vibrant printing
Price range: $
5. Specialty Textured Paper
Best for: Ultra-luxury brands, VIP events, executive gifting
Specialty papers include linen-textured, felt-finish, leather-grain, and other embossed base stocks. They create an immediate tactile impression that no amount of post-print finishing can replicate on standard paper.
Weight: 200gsm–350gsm
Textures: Linen, felt, leather grain, laid, woven
Pros: Unmistakable premium feel, unique differentiation
Cons: Highest cost, limited availability, longer lead time
Price range: $$$$
Matching Paper to Your Use Case
Use Case | Recommended Paper | Why |
|---|---|---|
Corporate CNY gifts | Pearl or metallic foil | Premium impression for VIP clients |
Trade show giveaways | Coated art paper | Cost-effective at volume, vibrant branding |
Wedding favors | Pearl paper | Elegant, photograph beautifully |
Eco-brand packaging | Kraft paper | Sustainability message, authentic feel |
Executive gala | Specialty textured | Maximum luxury and tactile impact |
Understanding Paper Weight (GSM)
GSM (grams per square meter) measures paper thickness and density. For red packets:
120–150gsm: Thin, lightweight — suitable for promotional inserts or disposable packets
200gsm: Standard thickness — good balance of quality and cost
250gsm: Premium feel — the sweet spot for most custom orders
300gsm+: Ultra-premium — stiff, substantial, luxury impression
For corporate events and brand gifting, we recommend 250gsm as the minimum. It feels substantial in hand without being excessively thick.
Finishing Options That Transform Any Paper
Regardless of your base paper, finishing techniques add the final layer of distinction:
Hot foil stamping: Gold, silver, or colored metallic foil pressed into the paper surface
Embossing / debossing: Raised or recessed textures for tactile impact
UV spot coating: Selective glossy highlights on specific design elements
Lamination: Matte (sophisticated) or gloss (vibrant) protective film layer
Die-cutting: Custom shapes — circles, scalloped edges, logo silhouettes
How to Choose: 3 Quick Questions
Who is receiving this? VIP clients → pearl or textured paper. Mass audience → coated art paper.
What's the occasion? Wedding or luxury gala → shimmer and foil. Trade show or promotion → standard coated.
What's your budget per unit? Under $0.10 → coated paper. $0.10–$0.30 → pearl or kraft. $0.30+ → specialty textured.
When in doubt, request physical samples. Nothing replaces the feel of actual paper in your hands before committing to a production run.
Aorai Pack offers free paper sample kits with every inquiry. Request yours to compare all 5 paper types side by side before ordering.