How do paper effects differ from simple texture overlays?

Generic texture overlays are flat images applied to a design. Our paper effects are built with directional fiber mapping, tonal variation, and edge behavior that responds to what's underneath, so the texture integrates well.

Will paper effects change how my colors read?

Yes, and intentionally so. Paper textures absorb and scatter light differently than a flat screen, which warms or desaturates color — what happens in real print. If you want to preserve exact brand colors underneath, use Luminosity or Overlay blend modes at reduced opacity.

Can I stack multiple paper effects for a more complex texture?

Yes, stacking works well — particularly when combining a base fiber texture with a separate edge-aging and foxing layer on top. We recommend keeping each layer between 20–60% opacity to avoid losing legibility.

Do these work on non-white background colors?

Paper effects are optimized for light backgrounds but can be adapted for dark designs by inverting the Multiply and Color Burn blending modes, which we include as alternative blend presets.

Are the effects calibrated for CMYK print output?

All effects are designed in RGB but include CMYK conversion notes. Textures at this resolution convert cleanly — just verify the soft proof before sending to press.

Home
Effects
Paper Effects Photoshop

Paper Effects Photoshop

We built our Photoshop paper effects around the idea that texture is never neutral. So instead of treating paper as a background, the collection lets it become part of the design language. Adjust the blending, choose the surface, and image starts to live on something with tooth, absorbency, weight, and light behavior.