i'm going to buy paper to print my resume

• Resume Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• Resume Examples Nurse Student Internship Teacher Accountant View all
• Resume Builder
• Cover Letter Templates Simple Professional Modern Creative View all
• Cover Letter Examples Nursing Administrative Assistant Internship Graduate Teacher View all
• Cover Letter Builder
• Resume Help

How to choose the best resume paper

Is resume paper still a thing? The answer is yes — resume paper is a relevant subject today for the same reasons it was in the pre-digital age, even if printed hard copies are needed far less often. In fact, the number of considerations for making informed choices about resume printing paper may surprise you, both on the practical and esthetic side. 

That the overall quality of resume paper is better than ordinary printer paper is fairly obvious. Typically, it feels heavier and looks noticeably nicer than regular printer paper. But with so many different types of resume paper available, comparisons among them are less straightforward. In the following guide, we will be covering: 

• What resume paper is
• The best color, weight, material and texture of resume paper
• Expert tips and insights on how to choose the right paper.

What is resume paper?

It’s easy to explain what resume paper is not . Except for the letter-size dimensions, resume paper is not the same as ordinary printer paper (sometimes called “copy” paper — as in office copier). Resume paper is designed specifically for printing resumes and cover letters, and may also be used as stationery for a wide variety of other specialty purposes. 

One size does fit all Your only choice for resume paper should be the letter-size standard — 8.5 by 11 inches in the U.S. or A4 in other parts of the world — the same as ordinary printing paper.

What do you need resume paper for?

Of course, the content of an outstanding resume should always be worth more than the paper it’s printed on. But there’s no question the document’s look and feel when placed on a desk or in someone’s hands can make a critical difference, for better or worse. 

So when exactly does this matter? With online job applications being the norm nowadays, how likely is it that anyone in the hiring organization is going to print your resume on special paper, if they even print it at all? Shouldn’t the PDF version be your only preoccupation when it comes to resume design elements?

There are three modern-day situations where job seekers need printed copies of their resume, on the best quality resume paper they can afford:

• Mailing or hand-delivering your resume to an employer.
• Handing out during a face-to-face job interview — either your resume alone or prefacing a portfolio of work samples.
• Leaving your resume with recruiters at a job fair.

Your choice of resume paper will affect the overall impact on those who first notice the printed copy you’ve provided and hold it in their hands while reading. What do you want recruiters to see and feel? Optimizing the way your printed resume will be “experienced” by the target employer is the goal of selecting the best resume paper. 

What is the best paper for your resume?

As a key takeaway from our occupation-specific writing guides and resume examples , we emphasize the importance of tailoring every version of your resume to the specific job you are applying for, along with the employer and industry. Then take the same customized approach a step further in choosing a resume design template with cohesive formatting elements, perhaps harmonizing with the employer’s visual identity. 

Resume paper options add one more layer of compatibility considerations. Take cues from your resume design template in finding the best resume paper fit. Just as financial or legal professionals are well served by a meticulously buttoned-down resume design template, a resume paper that emits minimalist, premium-quality vibes would do justice to their printed resume document. 

Resume paper for a management or executive job application should convey a polished sophistication that reflects attention to detail . An understatedly simple look on paper — without sacrificing quality — would be just fine for most entry-level job applicants. There’s more leeway in creative and artistic fields to consider less conventional resume paper colors and textures. Other resume papers lend themselves to manufacturing or high-tech job markets.

So how do you choose which paper to print your resume on?

Choosing the best resume paper is largely a matter of personal preference — not just your own, but also your best guess about those on the receiving end of your resume. HR research data can be somewhat helpful in determining which printing paper is your safest bet or could land your resume in the reject pile without being read. But it still comes down to subjective assessments when people are asked to pick this or that favorite. 

The good news is that each of the following decisions you make about the perfect resume paper need not be complicated. We’re going to keep it simple as possible so overthinking doesn’t bog you down. 

While HR research has yielded no conclusive verdict on any overall “best” choice of resume paper, the consensus on these two characteristics is solid.

• Weight: 32lb.
• Material: Cotton content should be at least 75%, and ideally 100%

Resume paper color: one or the other

White or ivory? Seldom should a passing thought be given to any other resume paper color… and then pretty much only in special creative circumstances when you’re certain the employer would be enthused. Notwithstanding the dozens, or even hundreds, of different white and ivory shade variations, your paper color can be narrowed down to this “either-or” choice. 

But not so fast … because the white-versus-ivory question is often not simple or obvious at all. It may require a tougher judgment call than any other resume paper consideration. 

Deciding whether your resume looks better on a white or ivory background depends on the resume design template you’ve chosen, alongside the image you want to project. Experimenting with both paper colors is the only way to be sure. 

New York resume template

Our New York template is monochromatically clean and refined with elegant graphic touches. You could never go wrong with white or ivory paper, but ivory might give you a distinctively worthy edge.

Sydney resume template

Sydney makes a vibrantly modern statement by adding a side column of transparent text and graphics against a solid dark-colored fill. White or ivory paper are equally effective, but ivory shows more originality. Be sure your printer is up to the task of producing color true and deep enough for high-quality results. 

Amsterdam resume template

Our Amsterdam resume template also features a side column with a solid background fill. But instead of a 100% dark color, it’s a light shade of grey that does not show up as well on the ivory paper. So in this case, white resume paper is a better choice.  

With leading job search experts yet to rule unanimously on a verdict favoring white or ivory resume paper across the board, we can only offer these general areas of consensus.

Resume paper weight: worth your weight in words

This may actually be your least weighty decision about the best resume paper for printing. Paper weight refers to thickness and density characteristics affecting the printed appearance, as well as the feel and durability. Thinner, lighter-bodied sheets of paper are more transparent and less crumple-proof.

Increases in paper weight come with improved product quality and professionalism — real and perceived. A resume that looks and feels firmer and less flimsy will stand out in the stack with good reason, psychologically lending solidness to the job application.

Printing paper weight is measured in pounds per “ream” — equal to a package of 500 sheets. With 20 lb. being the standard printing paper weight, resume paper is generally also available in two heavier weight options: 24 lb. and 32 lb.. 

Of the three resume paper weight options typically available — 20 lb., 24 lb. and 32 lb. — you’ll never regret splurging on 32 lb.

Resume paper material: the content you write on, not about

Resume content takes on a whole new tangible meaning when we talk about what the paper itself is composed of. Paper material is a key quality indicator of your printed resume document, sometimes relevant to the weight and texture.

The most significant make-or-break impact of resume paper material comes from the percentage of cotton content. From 0% to 100% in relation to standard wood pulp composition, the higher the cotton content in your resume paper the better the quality and durability. With less light reflection, cotton enhances the richness and depth of ink color. It contributes both softness and crispness to the paper feel. 

As a preferred resume paper material, cotton scores extra marks for eco-friendliness. Other environmentally sustainable materials include bamboo and linen, the latter appreciated for its lovely resemblance to the woven cloth made from the same flax plant source. 

Not sure which resume paper to pick? Feel it an see! 

Often, when you're ordering things online, you don't see (and feel) them until they arrive. However, if you're stuck choosing between different types of resume paper, it may help to touch the options. Head to a retailer and test out the different varieties.

Resume paper texture: the full finish

We’ve saved resume paper texture until last to address here, but by no means is it the least important. Resume paper “finish” — in both visual and tactile senses of the word — can make the biggest difference in achieving the finished product you desire.

Again, your decision should reflect your resume design template , particularly graphic elements whether it incorporates colors other than black. Experiment with a variety of paper textures to assess which one will achieve the desired effect.

Plain resume paper is self-explanatory in terms of the texture it lacks, as opposed to having any distinctive finish. Its plainness is familiar to everyone as a staple in every office. It’s a failsafe choice for showcasing your printed text and graphic elements without detracting or sacrificing legibility.

But by no means is plain paper synonymous with bland. As discussed in the previous section, the higher the percentage of cotton composition, the more striking the impact.

The unmistakable resemblance of linen to a finely stitched canvas or woven tablecloth is what makes it such a popular choice of paper texture. The look and feel of linen imparts a sense of premium quality, lending itself to virtually any resume template. 

In this context of resume paper finish, bear in mind that the paper material need not be linen (see previous section). In fact, the subtly embossed crosshatch pattern is often achieved using 100% cotton paper. 

The vintage elegance that makes parchment paper an obvious choice for official documents, diplomas, formal invitations and special event programs makes it an iffy option for resumes. Employers could very well be impressed — but not always in a good way. In the eyes of some beholders, parchment imparts formality and class. Others are turned off by what they perceive as trying too hard, if not pretentious.

The marbled effect of parchment-textured paper makes it unreliable for resume design templates with non-black text and graphic elements, which can be obscured. Beware also that some parchment paper colors may have greyish or greenish overtones.

Resume paper with a granite finish can be the best of both worlds for a look that’s refined and understatedly original. There’s a sense of style and substance in the appearance and touch. The quality of printed text and graphics on the smooth, fleck-patterned surface is generally good. One possible drawback is that the paper shade may be darker overall.

Resume paper with a laid finish replicates the Old World look of paper when the manufacturing process was first invented. The embossed “chain line” pattern is similar to the impressions made by antique machinery.

The main drawback of laid paper for resumes is the very thing that makes it unique and sophisticated. Those texture-defining raised lines can interfere with printing quality, and even cause missed spots. Laid paper is not recommended if your resume contains many solid dark areas.  Access to a high-caliber printer is vitally important. 

Where to buy resume paper

Once you’ve decided which type of resume paper to use, shopping for it should not be too difficult. You can either head to the stores and find the resume paper you need, or shop for it online. Here's a quick breakdown of where you can get the best resume paper:

• Local retailers like CVS, Walmart, Target or Walgreens should have a decent selection of basic resume paper.
• For a much wider variety of paper colors, weights and finishes, visit your nearest office supply store such as Staples, Office Depot or FedEx Office.

Heading to a stationery retailer? Don't miss this trick. 

Consider printing your resume at one of these locations while you are at it, even if you have a printer at home. An office supply retailer can be a convenient, affordable and dependable option for professional-quality results.

• The Paper Mill Store
• Goulet Pens
• Office Depot

Key takeaways

• The predominance of online job applications has not rendered resume paper obsolete. Printed resumes are still needed for mailing or hand-delivery to an employer, in-person job interviews and job fairs.
• Resume paper quality can make or break the recruiter’s first impression of a job applicant’s professionalism and attention to detail.
• Besides affecting the overall impact of your resume, the paper color, weight, material and texture can influence the appearance of text and graphic graphic elements, for better or for worse.
• With resume paper choices largely subjective, there are no hard and fast rules, only general guidelines. Strive for compatibility with your resume design template, which should already be a good fit with the occupation, employer and industry.

How To Print Your Resume Professionally

• It's All in the Details

Times Are Changing

Where you can print your resume, why bother, best resume paper, paint it black, keep it simple, resume printing, keep it crisp, every little bit helps, additional resources.

We may receive compensation when you click on links to products from our partners. For more information, please see our disclosure policy .

Your resume is often the first impression you make on potential employers, so it’s important to ensure it looks professional. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of printing a polished and impressive resume that will make you stand out from the competition.

Even though most resumes are submitted digitally, having printed copies is still crucial. In this article, we’ll show you how to print your resume professionally, increasing your chances of securing your dream job .

From kicking off your career to career transitions to the challenges of the experienced professional — TopResume has resources for you every step of the way. Get started with an expert... get the job... and thrive! 

It’s All in the Details

The quality of paper you use to print your resume is a small but significant detail. Handing over a resume printed on thin, low-quality, or wrinkled paper from the bottom of your desk drawer will likely make a poor impression. While there are more egregious mistakes, such as submitting a resume with typographical errors, these are generally easier to rectify. Many affordable services are available to help ensure your resume accurately reflects your personality and maintains consistency in font size, style, and format.

High-quality resume paper is both accessible and economical. It can be purchased on platforms like Amazon or at most office supply stores . Investing in good quality paper is well worth the effort as it enhances the professional appearance of your resume .

FedEx offers high-quality printing, express delivery and copies.

Although job searching has largely transitioned to digital platforms, there are still times when a physical copy of your resume is necessary. In this digital age, we tend to forget the complexities involved in choosing the right resume paper. The process of selecting the ideal type, weight, and texture of paper can significantly enhance the presentation of your resume . High-quality paper can make a strong first impression, reflecting your professionalism. While this may require a trip to the office supply store, being prepared and knowing what you need can streamline the process and ensure you present a polished, professional document at interviews or career fairs.

Although printing your resume at home is an option, using a professional print shop like FedEx or Office Depot is recommended. Despite the ease of modern printing, maintaining a professional-looking resume is crucial.

Professional printing ensures your resume is polished and visually appealing, creating an excellent first impression on potential employers. Today, while printing resumes has become more straightforward, its importance remains undiminished. By choosing professional services, you can guarantee that your resume not only looks sharp but also stands out in a competitive job market.

Give yourself a real advantage in your job search with Resume.io — the best online resume maker: created by experts, improved by data, and trusted by millions of professionals. Easy to use and complete within minutes. Try it now for free!

You may think that printing your resume is unnecessary since it’s been submitted online, but having a physical copy shows your attention to detail and professionalism. Even though the interviewer may have already printed a copy, having a physical copy during the interview will demonstrate your preparedness and dedication to the job. It’s also an opportunity to showcase your design skills by choosing high-quality paper and formatting. Overall, printing a resume can leave a lasting impression on the interviewer and give you an edge over other candidates.

Bringing a printed resume to your interview is a way to demonstrate your professionalism and something every job seeker should do. It shows that you plan and are prepared. Bring a few copies of your resume even if you are only scheduled to meet with one interviewer. If that person likes you, they may want you to speak with someone else, and you want a resume for that person as well.

Expert  Resume Writers . Affordable prices up front. Try us today and get the job you want! A professionally written resume can get you hired faster and at a higher salary. Types: Resume Only, Resume + Cover Letter, Expedited Delivery.

Avoid using standard printer paper for printing your resume . Although higher-quality paper may cost more, you don’t need to purchase reams of it. Investing in better paper can make a lasting impression on potential employers.

Resume paper weight

Resume paper is usually better quality than regular copy paper.  You can purchase high-quality paper which is thicker and has more texture than regular printer paper. resume-specific paper is also non-transparent. The thickness avoids the tearing of the paper. 24 lbs weight at a minimum is what should be used.

We recommend  off-white, cotton, 32lb paper for printing your resume .

Are watermarks OK?

You may have noticed that fancy resume paper often includes a watermark, typically a logo visible only when held up to light. While not essential, using watermarked paper can demonstrate to potential employers that you invested in high-quality materials and paid attention to detail in crafting your resume .

Ultimately, a watermark signifies high-quality paper. This feature is often a hallmark of premium stationery and indicates superior craftsmanship and material.

Resume Paper Color

Resume paper is commonly available in white, ivory, cream, and occasionally grey. Opting for a non-white color can help your resume stand out in a sea of papers and catch the recruiter’s attention. Choosing a different hue can make a subtle yet impactful difference.

Here are our favorites 

It’s recommended to use black ink when printing your resume , as opposed to colored ink. While colored ink may seem eye-catching, it can give an unprofessional impression and even make the resume harder to read, especially for those with poor vision. Prioritizing readability and professionalism by sticking to black ink ensures that your resume is accessible to all potential employers.

It’s advisable to use standard business fonts such as Helvetica, Arial, Times New Roman, or Courier when crafting your resume . Avoid using multiple fonts, which can give an unprofessional impression and even cause eye strain for the reader. Refrain from using fancy fonts and, most importantly, never use Comic Sans, as it’s widely considered an unprofessional font choice. By using standard business fonts, you can ensure your resume looks professional and is easily readable.

There are various ways to format your resume , such as using a chronological, functional, or combination format. Each has its unique benefits and drawbacks, so it’s essential to select a format that best showcases your skills and experience while aligning with the job requirements. Whichever format you choose, ensure it’s easy to read, uses consistent font sizes and styles, and incorporates bullet points and white space to improve readability. A well-formatted resume can help grab the recruiter’s attention and increase your chances of getting called for an interview.

No matter how high-quality your resume paper and content are, they won’t matter if you print your resume on a low-quality printer. For the best results, it’s recommended to use a laser printer. While inkjet printers are also an option, their ink can smudge or run when wet, which can compromise the quality of your resume .

A laserjet printed resume is less vulnerable to running if your interviewer spills their coffee on it! Never print a resume double-sided. We know it can be tempting to get the most out of your expensive resume paper but it makes it more difficult for a reader to scan through your resume and it looks unprofessional.

Avoid cramming your resume into your bag or briefcase, as it can cause creases and make it appear sloppy. Instead, transport your resumes in a sturdy folder. You can purchase a specially designed resume folder for this purpose, but a regular manilla folder will suffice. Using a resume folder can help keep your resume tidy, making a great impression on potential employers.

It’s a tight job market out there, and you are up against a lot of competition. That means you have to use every advantage available to you to make yourself stand out (see The Best Companies to Work for ).

How your resume looks should be as much a concern as the content. If you need a little resume inspiration, check the Gallery of Best Resumes .

Your success story begins with a resume.

Create a beautiful resume, impress your future employer, 

and score the job you’ve always wanted.

Improve your chances in job interviews by optimizing your resume. Our partners specialize in resume writing, reviewing, and tailoring to specific job requirements, ensuring job seekers stand out to potential employers.

Related posts:

What's next?

Choose the right tools to help you build your career.

Find out how to make a resume and cover letter that gets you hired.

You cannot copy content of this page

TheJobBored.com

The job search and career advice blog.

• Resume Service Reviews

Popular Posts

• Ask Brian – The Ex-Felon Job Search Catch 22 (237)
• Ask Brian – How Long Should I Wait To Hear Back? – Some Rules (209)
• 6 Signs The Job Interview Went Well (128)
• Ask Brian- How Long Should I Wait Before Following Up After An Interview? (120)
• Busting The One Page Resume Myth (64)
• Bulletin! What You Post Online Can Get You Fired! (54)
• Don’t Include These Skills On Your Resume (28)
• A Radical Job Search Strategy – Offering Bounties (26)
• Don’t Steal A Person’s Stapler (25)
• When It Is Time To Leave Your Job (25)
• 40 Things I Wish I Knew When I Started My Career (21)
• Job Search Hack- Organize Your Search Using The Rule Of Thirds (20)
• Organize Yourself- Create Your Own Personal Personnel File (20)
• Ask Brian – Job Search During the Holidays? (17)
• What Font Should I Use For My Resume? (17)
• Ask Brian Followup – Still Waiting; Now Confused. (16)
• How To Find A Job In A Tight Job Market (15)
• The Best Niche Job Boards (And Why You Should Use Them) (15)
• How To Save Your Job- How To Know When Layoffs Are Coming (14)
• Pock-It (14)

Resume Paper – What Paper Should I Print My Resume On?

December 8th, 2009 · 2 comments.

Posted by Brian McCullough

What is the best paper to use when mailing a resume as part of a job application?

I guess this goes along with my post concerning the best font to use for your resume .

I actually have a very specific answer to this question.

For more than a decade now, we’ve been printing hard copies of people’s resumes as an add-on feature to our resume writing service.

And in all that time, we’ve used the same paper.

I’ll tell you all about it, but first, let me make clear: I’m not getting paid or receiving any other consideration for the endorsement I’m about to make.

Having said that, in the r esume writing industry, Southworth is the only paper brand most of us use. You can find a wide range of Southworth paper products at most of the “big box” office supply retailers like Staples or Office Depot .

The specific type of paper I recommend using is Southworth Business Paper, 32lb, 100% Cotton, 8 1/2″x11″ and WHITE.

Here’s why:

• It’s simply the best paper. It’s thick and hearty enough to feel and look professional, but it’s still easily used in most printers. The paper is clear and the texture makes the text legible.
• 24lb paper is “ok” in my opinion, but a little on the light side. It feels too much like high quality laser printer paper. I prefer something that feels higher class. And 32lb does that.
• Southworth sells paper that they specifically brand as “resume paper” but I prefer the business paper just because of the look and feel. You’ll do fine with the resume paper, but aim for 32 lb if you can.
• I don’t like the linen paper. It’s too grainy and a bit to “showy” for me. The cotton paper has the heft and the texture without the visible grain.
• I always and only recommend going with white paper. The ivory is too much like a college diploma, and to me that reads as a bit to formal.
• At ResumeWriters.com , we buy paper by the boxful, but if you look around, or order online, you can get the paper I’m describing in smaller boxes of a few dozen sheets.
• You WILL have to pay more, but you’re paying for quality.
• If you’re paying for this sort of paper, you owe it to yourself to print your resume using a laser printer. Trust me, it will just look better.

Related posts:

• How To Bind Paper Without Staples Or Clips
• Resume Help
• Old School Resume Hack- Snail Mail
• Should I Bring A Resume To The Interview?
• Ask Brian – What is the Difference Between a CV and a Resume?
• Resume Tip- 4 Quick Ways To Make Your Resume Stand Out

Tags: resume help · Resumes

It’s the little touches that count the most. So many job seekers think that sending a resume via email somehow precludes the need for a nice hard copy. Presentation is EVERYTHING. Handing a nicely printed resume on good resume paper to the person interviewing you is absolutely essential! Jerome Imhoff The Resume Shop, “INK” San Francisco

Might want to make sure to proofread what you put on that great paper — change to “too showy” and “too formal”.

— I don’t like the linen paper. It’s too grainy and a bit to “showy” for me. The cotton paper has the heft and the texture without the visible grain. — I always and only recommend going with white paper. The ivory is too much like a college diploma, and to me that reads as a bit to formal.

Related Posts

© 2006–2012 TheJobBored.com — Sitemap | Privacy Policy | Terms Of Service | A Brian McCullough Production.

Get the Reddit app

Welcome to Purdue!

Printing Resumes

I want to print my resume on slightly nicer paper than standard A4, but the location in the PMU where you could do that isn't there anymore. Does anyone know of a spot on campus where I might be able to print out my resume on nicer paper?

By continuing, you agree to our User Agreement and acknowledge that you understand the Privacy Policy .

Enter the 6-digit code from your authenticator app

You’ve set up two-factor authentication for this account.

Enter a 6-digit backup code

Create your username and password.

Reddit is anonymous, so your username is what you’ll go by here. Choose wisely—because once you get a name, you can’t change it.

Reset your password

Enter your email address or username and we’ll send you a link to reset your password

Check your inbox

An email with a link to reset your password was sent to the email address associated with your account

Choose a Reddit account to continue