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Substrate Saturdays with Steve is our weekly series exploring the materials we use at Thysse—breaking down what they are, how they function, and why they matter. This week, we’re exploring board stock—a versatile, lightweight substrate for short-term signage applications, packaging, pocket folders and more.
Board stock provides a cost-effective, recyclable, and high-quality print surface, making it ideal for a broad range of print solutions. Let’s break it down.
Board stock, sometimes referred to as paperboard or coated two-sided (C2S) board, is a paper-based substrate with a clay-coated surface on both sides. This coating enhances print quality, color vibrancy, and ink adhesion, delivering crisp, professional-looking results at an economical price.
High Print Quality – The C2S (Coated 2 Sides) surface delivers sharp, vibrant imagery and crisp text.
Eco-Friendly – A fully recyclable material with a lower carbon footprint than plastic-based substrates.
Best for Indoor Use – Can handle a mild, dry day outside, but exposure to moisture will weaken the material.
Board stock’s lightweight construction and affordability make it a go-to choice for indoor marketing applications. Here’s where it shines:
Retail Signage: Ideal for in-store promotions, shelf talkers, and temporary product displays.
POP Displays: Used in point-of-purchase signage where high-quality graphics matter.
Event Signage: Great for conference and trade show signs where durability is not a primary concern.
Menu Boards & Posters: Works well for indoor menu boards, sale announcements, and wall posters.
Backdrops: A budget-friendly option for temporary set pieces and even photo backgrounds. (Printed fabrics also work well for this, depending on fixtures and other needs.)
Packaging: Commonly used for card and folding carton packaging
At Thysse, we keep two standard board sizes in stock:
48” x 96”
50” x 100”
Board stock is easy to trim, die-cut, and crease for custom signage needs. Thysse’s array of die cutters and incredibly precise, computer-guided flatbed cutters can cut, blank and score board stocks to your specifications.
Board stock is not designed for long-term outdoor applications. While it can handle a mild, dry day outside, exposure to moisture or humidity will cause the material to weaken, warp, or disintegrate.
For weather-resistant signage, consider alternatives like:
Coroplast (corrugated plastic) – Durable and waterproof, great for yard signs.
Foam PVC (Sintra, Komatex) – More rigid, with excellent moisture resistance.
ACM (Aluminum Composite Material) – Long-lasting and ideal for high-end branding.
Board stock remains one of the most cost-effective and reliable substrates for high-quality print products ranging from signage and folders to retail packaging. It provides an eco-friendly alternative to plastic-based materials, prints beautifully, and is easy to work with across all the different forms it can take.
Whether you need vibrant signage, premium packaging, or high-quality folders, board stock is a cost-effective, eco-friendly solution that delivers exceptional print results.
Need help choosing the right substrate? Our experts at Thysse can guide you through the best material for your signage needs. Contact us today, or check out our growing library of resources!
