Customized Ripple Wall Cups.

The outer layer. A double wall cup has a second smooth ply of board with a sealed air gap behind it. A ripple wall cup has a fluted outer ply — corrugated in miniature — creating a series of air channels instead of one cavity.

Insulation is broadly similar. A smooth double wall often holds heat very slightly longer, but not by a margin a customer would notice.

Grip is where ripple wins. The ridges give real purchase, especially with wet hands.

Print is where double wall wins. A flat surface takes fine detail and photographic artwork; flutes break both up.

Choose ripple for grip and a craft look, smooth double wall for print quality and a cleaner finish.

You can, but we would usually advise against it, and it is worth understanding why before you commit artwork.

The outer surface is fluted, so it is physically ridged rather than flat. Ink lands on the peaks and in the valleys differently, which breaks up anything relying on fine, continuous detail — photographic gradients, thin rules, small type.

What works well: bold logos, solid colour blocks, simple line marks, large type. Keep type at roughly 8pt or above.

If your brand identity depends on a photographic image or delicate detail, a smooth double wall cup is the right choice. We would rather tell you that than print something that arrives looking muddy.