What type of tree fibers are typically used to make smoother paper?

Hardwood fibers are typically used to produce smoother paper because they are denser and have a finer fiber structure compared to softwood fibers. This finer structure allows for better bonding during the paper manufacturing process, which contributes to a smoother finish. Hardwood species, such as oak and maple, tend to produce papers that are more suitable for products requiring a high-quality surface, like fine printing papers and high-end writing paper.

Softwood fibers, on the other hand, are longer and coarser and are often used for products where strength is more critical than surface smoothness, such as newsprint or packaging paper. Bamboo can also be used for paper making, but its properties differ from traditional hardwood fibers. Pine, being a type of softwood, would not typically provide the desired smooth texture associated with hardwood paper products. Thus, hardwood is the preferred choice in this context for creating smoother papers.