Paper Types for Art Prints: Linen Pressed vs. Premium Matte Paper

Why does a geometric print on linen press look different than on smooth matte paper? And which paper does justice to the subtle earthy tones of the Theros collection? Discover how paper transforms your KOJO Art print.

Paper Is Not a Detail – It Is the Artwork

When I first saw Vonitsa Sun on linen press, I truly understood it. The soft pinks and reds, with that deep green glow beneath them—they had a depth that was simply not possible on smooth paper. The light fell differently. The colors breathed.

At KOJO Art, everything revolves around balance: geometric precision meets organic color, clean lines embrace soft transitions. This calls for paper that does justice to both sides of the coin. That's why I work exclusively with museum-quality paper—not as a luxury detail, but as an essential part of the work itself.

The Two Paper Types of KOJO Art (and Why I Chose Them)

Linen Pressing (300 grams, white) – The Basics of KOJO Art

What makes it special:

• 300 g/m² – feels luxurious, holds its shape perfectly
• Subtle linen texture that catches light without being distracting
• Bright white that makes earthy tones shine
• Matte finish without reflections

Why this is my standard:
The linen texture creates a magical effect with color field work. Take Dawn | Art Print , for example – that soft transition from warm pink to deep blue is given an extra dimension by the texture. The paper "holds" the light in a way that smooth paper can't.

Linen pressing is essential for the Theros collection. The Greek sun, the earth, the sea—those warm, natural colors demand a paper with character. Ionian Morning on linen feels like a memory of a summer morning; on smooth paper, it would be a graphic design.

But geometric works like Night and Day from the New York Districts series also look stunning on linen presses. The texture softens the harsh contrasts just enough to make the work accessible without losing its sharpness.

Used for:

• All standard sizes (A4, A3, 50x70 cm, etc.)
• All collections: Theros. , New York Districts. , Ombre. , Antra.
• Most Print Club prints
• Works where tactile richness and color depth are central

Premium Matte Poster Paper (230 gsm, white) – For Large Formats

What makes it special:

• 230 g/m² – optimal weight for large prints
• Smooth, tight matte surface
• Sharp color reproduction
• Professional finish for statement pieces

Why I choose this paper for large formats:
From A3 and larger, the dynamic shifts. A large work demands a different kind of presence—it's about impact, about how it fills a space. The smooth, premium matte surface gives large expanses of color and geometric compositions a sleek, powerful look.

Viewed from a distance, texture disappears. What remains is form, color, and composition. Premium matte allows these elements to shine without distraction. It's the perfect choice for statement-making pieces.

Used for:

• A3 size and larger (29.7 x 42 cm+)
• Large formats such as 50x70 cm, 70x100 cm
• Statement pieces for large walls
• Working where sharpness and impact are central

The Paper We Miss: 320 Gram Warm White

Early KOJO Art prints—think of the first works from Antra —were printed on 320-gram paper with a warm, creamy undertone. This paper gave an almost vintage feel, as if the work had been hanging in a Parisian gallery for years.

Sadly, it's no longer available. But it did teach me something: the color of your paper changes the emotion of your work. Warm white made everything softer, more intimate. Bright white (which I use now) adds clarity and power. Both are good—but for different stories.

How Paper Changes Your KOJO Art Print

Color: Texture Gives Depth

I once compared Myth | Art Print on both papers. On linen press, it felt warm, earthy, Mediterranean—the texture gave the color fields an organic depth. On premium matte, it became tighter, more graphic, more modern. Same colors, same composition—subtly different vibe.

Rule of thumb:

• Smaller formats (up to A3) → linen pressing for tactile richness and colour depth
• Large formats (A3+) → premium matte for a sleek look and impact
• Warm, earthy palettes → linen pressing enhances the natural warmth
• Statement pieces for large walls → premium mat gives strength without distraction

Light: How Texture Creates Movement

Linen press captures light in a way that smooth paper cannot. As you walk past Vonitsa Sun , you'll see the pinks and reds subtly shift, the green glow appearing differently. The texture creates micro-shadows that make the work "move."

Premium matte, on the other hand, reflects light evenly. Perfect for large works where you want the composition to remain consistent, regardless of the angle.

Tactile: Art You Want to Touch

People who receive Print Club prints often send me photos of their hands holding the paper. "It feels so luxurious," they write. That's the power of quality paper—whether it's linen-pressed or premium matte, the weight and finish feel like an investment, not a poster.

Which Size & Paper Is Right for Your Space?

Small to Medium Spaces (Bedroom, Study, Hallway)

Format: A4, A3, 30x40 cm, 50x70 cm
Paper: Linen pressing (300g)
Why: At this distance, you can see and feel the texture. It creates intimacy and depth.
Discover: Theros. | Art Prints , Ombre.

Large Walls (Living Room, Above the Sofa, Office)

Size: 70x100 cm, 100x140 cm
Paper: Premium matte (230g)
Why: Viewed from a distance, impact is more important than texture. Premium matte gives a powerful presence.
Discover: New York Districts. , large formats from New.

You're Not Sure

Try Print Club – a new print delivered to your door every month. Discover how paper and art intertwine in your space, without immediately committing to a large format.

Technical: Why Museum Quality Matters

Acid-free = 100+ Years Without Yellowing

All KOJO Art prints are printed on acid-free paper. This means that the Ionian Morning you buy today will still have those warm ochre tones in 50 years. No yellowing, no fading.

Lightfast Inks = Colors That Last

I test every print for lightfastness according to ISO standards. Don't hang your work in direct sunlight (this applies to all art on paper), and it will remain beautiful for generations.

FSC Certified = Responsibly Produced

Paper comes from sustainably managed forests. Printed in the Netherlands to minimize transport. Fully recyclable. Art should be beautiful – for you and for the planet.

Framing & Care: Get the Most Out of Your Print

For Linen Pressing (300g)

• Frame with passe-partout – gives the texture room to breathe
• Standard or anti-reflective glass – both work well
• Care: Wipe with a dry cloth, not damp
• Tip: Let the frame accentuate the texture – natural wood or matte black work perfectly

For Premium Mat (230g)

• Sleek frame without a passepartout – enhances the modern look
• Anti-reflective glass – maximizes the matte finish
• Care: Minimal; do not touch the print surface
• Tip: For large formats, consider professional framing for optimal tension.

General

• Use acid-free passe-partouts and back walls
• Do not hang above radiators (heat warps paper)
• Keep humidity between 40-60%
• Avoid direct sunlight

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose which paper I want for my print?

The paper type is determined by size for optimal quality. Standard sizes (up to A3) are printed on linen (300g), larger sizes on premium matte (230g). This is not a limitation, but a conscious choice for the best results.

Why is heavier paper better for small sizes?

On small prints, you can see and feel the difference. 300-gram linen press feels more luxurious, doesn't wrinkle, and the texture adds depth of color that you appreciate up close. For large prints viewed from a distance, this is less relevant, so I opt for a sleek premium matte finish.

Can I hang a print without a frame?

Technically it's possible, but I advise against it. Paper is sensitive to moisture and dust. A frame with glass protects your investment and ensures your print will still look perfect in 20 years.

How long does a KOJO Art print last?

With acid-free paper, lightfast inks, and proper care: 100+ years. The same standard museums use for their collections.

Does the color rendering differ between linen pressing and premium matte?

Yes, subtly. Linen press adds warmth and depth through its texture – colors feel richer, more organic. Premium matte produces sharper, brighter colors with a clean look. Both are beautiful, but create different effects.

Which paper for damp areas such as bathrooms?

No paper is ideal for high humidity. Choose smaller sizes behind well-sealed glass and ensure ventilation. Or consider dibond/acrylic glass for very humid environments.

Why no more warm white paper?

The 320-gram warm paper is unfortunately no longer available from my printer. However, bright white produces brighter, more vibrant colors – which better suits the direction KOJO Art is developing.

Start Here: Discover Paper Through Experience

Paper is something you have to feel, see in your own light, experience in your own space. Therefore, there are three ways to get started:

1. Choose a Favorite Work
Browse New and choose a print that resonates with you. Smaller sizes are automatically printed on linen, larger sizes on premium matte – both optimized for the best results.

2. Discover By Collection

• Theros. | Art Prints – Greek sun, earthy tones, linen-pressed texture
• New York Districts – Urban geometry, available in all sizes
• Ombre – Subtle transitions that live on linen pressing
• Original. – Unique paintings on canvas (the source of all prints)

3. Try Print Club.
A new print arrives in the mail every month. This way, you build a collection and discover how different paper types and works come together—without immediately committing to large formats. I enjoy experimenting with paper for Print Club , so you experience the diversity of museum-quality prints.

Paper isn't a detail. It's half the story. At KOJO Art, I make a conscious choice: linen pressing for intimacy and depth, premium matte for impact and strength. Both with the same dedication to quality, sustainability, and beauty.

Your print becomes more than just a picture on the wall – it becomes a piece of your home that will last for generations.