Digital BW, The Print

> > In 13x19, what papers might I consider balancing quality and value?
> > Should I simply forgo cotton fiber papers if economy is a major
> > consideration?
> >


 
> There is Premier Premium Matte which I  now use to replace EEM. Cost
> about the same, DMAX as good or better. Brighter finish than EEM. But
> best of all, its a 100% cotton acid free.


Premium Matte is acid free but not cotton.  It's a wood-based, buffered
paper.  Hopefully the lignin has been virtually eliminated.  It's almost
over-the-top on OBAs, but it does have a great dmax and is cheap.



> 
> I also use PremierArt 325gms - Heavy Weight, coated 2 sides. 100%
> cotton, acid free, buffered. And no flaking. Has a warm look about it.
> 
> http://www.photowarehouse.biz/premier.html


The 205 weight version of PremierArt Hot Press is a good value and coated on
both sides.  These papers are quite durable.

Consider also Innova Ultra Smooth FibaPrint.  It's an alpha cellulose paper
that has more reasonable OBA load than Premier Premium Matte and is about my
favorite weight at 280 gsm.  (See www.shadesofpaper.com) FibaPrint has a
better dmax than the PremierArt Hot Press papers.

In rolls, Epson Premium Semimatte is reasonably cheap.  I think I paid less
than $100 for a 100 foot 24 inch wide roll.

Now if 8x10 is the target, Kirkland Pro Glossy is the champ of cheap and
good.  It can be bought be non-members of Costco online.

All of the above papers have a minimum of flaking and other such problems.

Paul
www.PaulRoark.com