Ep 46: Paper Is the Original Embellishment with Jason Leonard

In Episode 46 of Taktiful Tuesdays, Eric Vessels sits down with Jason Leonard of Neenah Fine Paper, now part of Mativ, to kick off a new series featuring members of the Taktisphere Advisory Council.

Jason shares his journey from growing up in a black and white photo lab to working across major print technologies, OEMs, and paper innovation. The conversation dives deep into the often overlooked role of paper as a foundational element of print and why it should be considered an embellishment in its own right.

They explore how paper, digital embellishments, and technology work together to create emotional impact, why printers must rethink commoditization, and how collaboration across competitors can move the industry forward.

Key topics include:
• Why paper is the OG tactile experience in print
• The balance between embellishment and over-design
• The “armpit test” and what makes print worth keeping
• Challenges facing printers today and how to overcome them
• The importance of collaboration across OEMs and print providers
• Why creativity and value matter more than cost

Plus, Jason shares insights on music, guitars, and his unexpected background in culinary school.

This episode is all about blending timeless print fundamentals with modern innovation.