What is currently happening in the world of pulp and paper? With an earthquake in Chile, and a volcano in Iceland, one might be excused for questioning whether 2010 is not the year of doom and gloom from a natural disasters perspective!

In the world of Pulp & Paper, we are currently in the middle of a “pulp crisis”, facing massive pulp increases. In fact, one of our suppliers indicated to us, that exactly a year ago, they were paying around $450 a ton for pulp, and are now paying over $900/MT! This essentially means that the basic raw material for paper has, in many situations, doubled. Most mills have hurried to pass on emergency increases that range from 5 to 15%, but the fear is that if pulp prices remain where they are, this won't even go halfway towards “touching sides”.

Can the Chilean earthquake be solely blamed for the massive pulp crisis that we are currently facing? The answer is “no”, - it can be seen more as a “final straw”, and that pulp prices have been steadily rising over the last few quarters anyway.

How is this going to affect the pricing of Papersmith papers?

Well, it is our opinion that this pulp crisis may have a much greater effect on the pricing of commodity grades (like cheaper coated papers). For now – the stronger Rand seems to have sheltered us to a degree. In fact, in the case of Papersmith papers, where yes, we have certainly received increases from our European suppliers, we have been fortunate in that the rand's recent strength has helped us offset these increases, so the good news is that (provided the Rand keeps behaving) we won't be going up in price, and in some cases ... we might even be coming down!!

WATCH THIS SPACE! 

Hope it's a great one!! Rob

Trend White

We recently launched the first 100% post consumer waste 100% recycled A4 copier in the SA market and WOW what a green grade it is! Some facts to ponder on...

With 500 sheets of recycled copier paper, this is what you save in comparison to with virgin paper:

So not only do the facts support your cause, but the price will too! Be sure to contact your Papersmith consultant about a sample pack.

Rock Paper

It has arrived! This synthetic grade is made from...dah....rocks... and is sure to impress you! It’s the perfect grade for maps, magazines, carrier bags, tags etc and is definitely affordable! It’s a paper that acts like a plastic, and has the environmental credentials of some of the “greenest” grades on the market. Swatches will be arriving soon...watch this space!

Gold for Scheufelen

Papierfabrik Scheufelen operates a paper mill in Lenningen, Germany and is a leading producer of premium quality coated woodfree papers which it sells and distributes through a network of sales offices and agents. Established in 1855, Scheufelen has a strong heritage and brand identity, an excellent reputation for quality and service and is ideally situated in the centre of the largest geographical concentration of high quality printers in Europe. Environmental issues are an integral part of their activities; as they say “only companies with a responsible and sustainable environmental policy can enjoy long-term success.”

The Scheufelen Wall Calendar entitled “Think Big!” won gold at the 60th International Calendar Show in Stuttgart. The winners were chosen from among some 1,300 entries submitted to the Calendar Show from all over the world. The Calendar Show is one of the world’s leading calendar exhibitions and is an important platform for Europe’s print and media industry. The artworks' aesthetic appeal is really brought out by the coated papers they are printed on – PhoeniXmotion, and Heaven 42 (both stocked by Papersmith & Son).

If you would like to set your eyes on this award-winning piece of design, please contact your Papersmith & Son consultant.

Tips for Printers

High quality printed matters are the result of 10% technique and 90% communication. This means that it is of vital importance that all parties discuss what result they want to achieve with a planned, printed matter. The technique that is required to reach the desired result is well known and common to the majority of repro houses and printers. This guide is compiled in such a way that it should enable everyone to obtain the results they are obliged to achieve, on the condition that a few fundamental tips are respected.

Plate Exposure

This is done according to the norms of standard printed matter. With conventional halftones the applicable norm is that a line of 8 microns is partially lost and 10 microns is fully reproduced. Stochastic halftones require a 6 to 8 microns.

Types of Inks

When possible, use vegetable inks, possibly with an increase in pigment concentration. Vegetable-based inks are good both for the results and for the environment. They are more stable on the press, ideal for uncoated papers and dry more quickly. Good print results on uncoated paper require more ink due to the open surface structure of the paper. This means that dot gain is even greater and that the repro work must be carefully adapted to take this into account.

Printing Pressure

By using vegetable inks and respecting the recommended print density, the best result can be achieved with an increased counter-pressure. The higher pressure ensures that all irregularities in the uncoated paper are compensated for.

Ink Coverage & Density

To achieve a good print result, a lot of ink should be used. There will be no problems with smearing if the adjustments have been done correctly in the repro stage. If not, the typical blotchy-look, with both half and three-quarter tones will be visible. Inform your customer and repro house so that they are able to make the necessary adjustments.

Paper Stack

When a batch comes from the press, it is advisable to cover it to prevent liquid absorption (humidity gain and/or warping of the edges). Uncoated papers are more porous and they are susceptible to humidity and temperature changes. It is also important to store the paper in its package for approximately 24 in the environment it will be printed in.

Custom-Sized Envelopes

Through our PaperCafe, we offer one of the biggest ranges of different size and coloured envelopes in the country! Most of our grades are stocked in DL envelopes, while we have Malmero, Deep Black, Stardream and Trance in160 x 160, DL and C6. We can also have envelopes made to fit your specific job so be sure to contact us on (011) 880 6707 when you are specking your next job!

Mohawk Competition

Don't forget to send in your entries for the Mohawk Competition! Entries need to reach us by the 21st of May 2010 and any job printed on Beckett Concept or Mohawk Options can be submitted. Email us on sales@papersmith.co.za if you require an entry form or more information.