Searching for the right paper for your print or packaging project? Choosing the right paper isn’t just about selecting a blank canvas. Instead, it will be a foundational decision that influences the look, feel, and quality of your final product. In this context, understanding paper weight is key to making wise choices for your business. Why? What do GSM, LBS, and thickness actually mean in paper? This ultimate guide will cover everything you need to know.
What Is Paper Weight?
In simple terms, paper weight is a measure of a paper sheet’s thickness and strength, affecting its durability, feel, and performance in printers.
How Is Paper Weight Measured?
When it comes to paper weight, you might see the term GSM pop up. However, the US system uses pounds (LBS) for weight. What’s the difference between the two?
LBS (Pounds)
In the US and Canada, LBS (Pounds) is used to measure the weight of 500 sheets at a standard size. Was that sound complicated? Well, it is! This system dates back to the early days of paper making, when each type of paper had a standard sheet size. Accordingly, it applies to different base sheet sizes for text and cover stocks. For example, you can choose 20lb copy paper for standard office use.
GSM (Grams per Square Meter)
GSM is the global standard for measuring paper weight, and for good reason – it’s more intuitive and consistent across different paper types. The metric tells you exactly how much one square meter of paper weighs. For example, a sheet of 80 GSM printer paper means it weighs 80 grams per square meter.
Different Types of Paper Weights
The best thing about the GMS system is that no complicated calculations are required. Yet, it doesn’t mean that it will not affect your final product.
Simply put, a higher GSM means more durability. Moreover, the print quality will vary based on paper weight. Depending on your purpose, you can choose from a range of paper weights.
Let’s break it down.
Light-Weight Papers (35-120 GSM)
35-120 GSM is the thinnest grade of regular paper, ideal for digital printing and basic offset printing, but only suitable for simple double-sided printing. At this weight range, the paper might wrinkle if the ink coverage is too heavy. Hence, if you need to use it, it will be best with lighter color applications.
Best for:
- Food packaging
- Newspapers
- Box inserts
- Wrapping sheets
Medium-Weight Papers (120-200 GSM)
The paper, which weighs 120-200 GSM, is ideal for promotional materials like posters and brochures. At this weight, the paper will be sturdy enough to withstand handling while being flexible to withstand wear and tear during transit.
The medium-weight papers offer excellent surfaces for double-sided printing. You can apply full color and heavy ink coverage, even specialty finishes like spot UV or foil stamping.
Best for:
- Marketing materials
- Brochures and booklet covers
- Letterheads
- Paper bags and shopping bags
- Stickers, labels, and tapes
Heavy-Weight Papers (200+ GSM)
If your brand focuses on durability and presentation, paper weight at 200+ GSM is the best option. The advantages of choosing these heavyweight papers include being excellent for embossing and debossing. Plus, they can handle premium finishes like metallic ink or special effects like textured printing.
However, these papers require advanced printing equipment, and you should consider scoring before folding them to prevent cracking.
Best for:
- Luxury retail packaging
- High-end promotional materials
- Statement packaging that needs to maintain shape, such as rigid boxes
- Premium business cards
Get a quick comparison of paper weights from the table below.
| Paper Weights | Durability | Printing Features | Best for |
| Light-Weight (35-120 GSM) | Light |
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| Medium-Weight (120-200 GSM) | Sturdy |
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| Heavy-Weight (200+ GSM) | Highly durable |
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Specialty Paper Weights for Print and Custom Packaging Projects
For printing packaging projects, customization is required, and therefore, specialty paper options are available.
What are the options?
- Transparent Paper Weight
Ideal for overlays and creative projects that require translucency. The GSM of transparent paper weight can vary, but it’s typically on the lighter side.
- Construction Paper Weight
Construction paper is often used for crafts and projects that require a sturdier material, as it’s heavier than standard paper.
- Cartridge Paper Weight
It’s a heavyweight paper that typically ranges from 150 to 300 GSM and is used primarily for drawing and painting. The best thing about cartridge paper weight is that it can handle a variety of media without bleeding through.
Paper Weight vs. Paper Thickness
Paper weight is not the whole story when it comes to print and packaging projects. In fact, two types of papers with the same weight can have significantly different profiles. This is where Points (PT) come in.
While GSM and LBS tell you how heavy paper is, points measure the paper’s actual thickness. Does it matter? Yes, a paper’s thickness matters more than you might think.
Several factors determine a paper’s thickness, such as:
- Density: How tightly packed the fibers are.
- Material composition: Recycled content changes the entire structure of the paper.
- Surface treatments: Coatings can also affect the paper’s thickness.
- Paper-making process: Different paper-making techniques create different thicknesses.
For a better understanding, check out our blog about the difference between GSM and PT.
How to Choose the Right Paper Weight?
Whether for a print or packaging project, choosing the right paper weight is essential as it affects the final result.
Here are the factors you should consider:
- Design: Do you need to print heavy ink coverage or imagery that might require a thicker paper to prevent show-through?
- Practicality: Will you use the paper frequently, or will you mail it?
- Industry Standards: Is it for high-end customers or more casual communication?
- Budget: Heavier papers will surely cost more, so make sure to balance quality with cost-effectiveness.
Nevertheless, we must say that the right paper weight can elevate your project from ordinary to extraordinary.
Wrapping Up
No doubt, choosing the right paper will be a foundational decision that influences the look, feel, and quality of your final product. Paper weight is a measure of a paper sheet’s thickness and strength, affecting its durability, feel, and performance in printers.
GSM is the global standard for measuring paper weight, and for good reason – it’s more intuitive and consistent across different paper types. However, in the US and Canada, LBS (Pounds) is the standard unit for measuring the weight of 500 sheets at a standard size.
When choosing the right paper weight, consider your design needs, practicality, industry standards, and budget.
Not sure which option is right for you? Don’t worry—the expert team at Custom Box Makers is here to provide recommendations based on your project’s specific needs and preferences.
FAQs
What is paper weight?
Paper weight is a measure of a paper sheet’s thickness and strength, affecting its durability, feel, and performance in printers.
How is paper weight measured?
GSM is the global standard for measuring paper weight as it’s more intuitive and consistent across different paper types. However, in the US and Canada, LBS (Pounds) is used to measure the weight of 500 sheets at a standard size.
What is PT?
While GSM and LBS indicate a paper’s weight, Points (PT) measure its actual thickness.
How to choose the right paper weight?
When choosing the right paper weight, consider your design needs, practicality, industry standards, and budget.
