Transform your wide-format prints with professional-grade matte photo paper engineered for Canon imagePROGRAF and HP DesignJet plotters.
Our matte photo media delivers museum-quality reproductions with zero glare, exceptional color gamut, and archival longevity exceeding 100 years. Perfect for fine art reproductions, architectural renderings, professional photography, and gallery displays where reflection-free viewing is essential.
Why professionals choose TAVCO represented matte photo paper:
- Anti-glare surface - No reflections under gallery lighting or office environments
- Enhanced color depth - 95% Adobe RGB coverage with pigment inks
- Instant dry technology - Handle prints quickly without smudging
- Texas-based inventory - 24", 36", 44" rolls ship same day before 2 PM CST
Matte Photo Paper Comparison Guide
| Paper Type | Weight | Thickness | Widths Available | Best Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premium Matte | 200gsm | 8.5 mil | 24", 36", 44", 60" | Gallery prints, portfolios |
| Heavy Matte | 230gsm | 10 mil | 24", 36", 44" | Fine art, museum displays |
| Photo Matte | 170gsm | 7 mil | 24", 36", 42" | Proofs, presentations |
| Smooth Matte | 190gsm | 8 mil | 24", 36", 44" | Photography, graphics |
| Archival Matte | 250gsm | 11 mil | 24", 36", 44" | Museum collections |
| Economy Matte | 140gsm | 5.5 mil | 24", 36" | Drafts, temporary displays |
All matte papers feature instant-dry coating and are compatible with both dye and pigment inks. Roll lengths: 100ft or 150ft standard.
Matte Photo Paper Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between matte and glossy photo paper for wide-format printing?
Matte photo paper features a non-reflective surface that eliminates glare, making it ideal for viewing under bright lights or behind glass. Colors appear softer and more natural, with exceptional detail in both highlights and shadows. Glossy paper offers more vibrant colors and deeper blacks, but shows reflections and fingerprints. Matte is preferred for architectural renderings, fine art reproductions, and professional portfolios where texture and viewing angle flexibility matter.
Which weight matte photo paper should I choose for my project?
Select paper weight based on application: 140-170gsm for proofs and temporary displays, 190-200gsm for standard gallery prints and client presentations, 230-250gsm for premium fine art and museum-quality prints, and 250gsm+ for prints requiring maximum durability without mounting. Heavier papers (230gsm+) also minimize cockling with high ink coverage and feel more substantial, justifying premium pricing for client work.
Can I use matte photo paper with both Canon and HP wide-format printers?
Yes, our matte photo papers are universally compatible with Canon imagePROGRAF (TM, TX, PRO series) and HP DesignJet (T, Z series) plotters. The instant-dry coating works with both pigment inks (Canon LUCIA, HP Vivera) and dye-based inks. For optimal results, select the appropriate media profile in your printer settings—most plotters include presets for "Photo Paper Matte" or "Fine Art Paper" that automatically adjust ink density and drying time.
How long do prints on matte photo paper last?
With pigment inks, prints on quality matte photo paper achieve: 100+ years for color prints displayed indoors, 200+ years for black-and-white prints, and 75+ years with dye-based inks under gallery conditions. Longevity depends on ink type, display conditions, and paper quality. Our archival-grade matte papers are acid-free, lignin-free, and include optical brighteners that won't yellow over time. For maximum permanence, frame prints behind UV-filtering glass.
What's the cost per square foot for matte photo paper printing?
Matte photo paper costs vary by grade: Economy (140gsm) runs $0.45-0.60 per sq ft, Standard (170-190gsm) costs $0.75-1.00 per sq ft, Premium (200-230gsm) ranges $1.25-1.75 per sq ft, and Museum/Archival (250gsm+) costs $2.00-2.50 per sq ft. Add $0.35-0.85 for ink costs depending on coverage. Most photographers charge clients $8-15 per square foot for finished matte prints, providing healthy margins.
How should I handle and store matte photo paper rolls?
Store matte photo paper rolls horizontally in original packaging at 60-75°F with 35-55% humidity. Avoid storing items in basements (too humid) or attics (temperature fluctuations). Before printing, let the paper acclimate to room temperature for 2 hours. Handle prints by edges only—matte surfaces show fingerprints less than glossy but can still mark. Allow 10 minutes drying time before stacking, despite instant-dry claims. Properly stored sealed rolls last 2-3 years.
Texas Wide-Format Media Experts: Serving Texas photographers, artists, and print professionals with premium matte photo papers since 1987. We offer complete inventories in 24", 36", and 44" widths for immediate shipment from our warehouse network.
