Question 1

What does GSM mean in paper weight?

Accepted Answer

GSM stands for grams per square meter—the standard measurement for paper weight. A 200gsm paper weighs 200 grams per square meter. Higher GSM means thicker, more substantial paper. Common print GSM ranges from 60gsm (lightweight) to 400gsm (heavy cardstock).

Question 2

What is the best paper weight for business cards?

Accepted Answer

Business cards should be 350-400gsm for a premium, durable feel. This weight survives handling, fits in wallets, and creates a professional impression. Add soft-touch or matte lamination for extra durability and a luxury finish that stands out.

Question 3

What paper weight should I use for brochures?

Accepted Answer

Standard brochures work well at 130-170gsm. For premium handouts that need to stand out, use 200-250gsm. Heavier paper feels more substantial and protects the content. Consider coating (gloss or matte) for better color vibrancy and durability.

Question 4

What paper weight is best for packaging boxes?

Accepted Answer

Packaging boxes typically use 300-400gsm for the outer shell. Add corrugated layers (double-wall or triple-wall) for shipping strength. Food packaging may need moisture-resistant coatings. The weight depends on product weight and handling requirements.

Question 5

Does higher GSM always mean better quality?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Higher GSM means thicker, but quality depends on the specific application. A 130gsm premium glossy paper often looks better than a 170gsm standard matte. Choose paper based on purpose—some projects need lightweight paper (like letterheads) while others need heavy cardstock.

Question 6

What is the difference between text and cover paper?

Accepted Answer

Text paper (60-120gsm) is lightweight for interior pages—easy to fold and read. Cover paper (200-400gsm) is thick for covers, cards, and packaging. Using different weights for covers and interiors is standard for booklets, catalogs, and marketing materials.

Question 7

What paper weight should I use for letterheads?

Accepted Answer

Standard letterheads are 80-100gsm—lightweight enough for folding and mailing. Premium letterheads use 100-120gsm for a more substantial feel. Avoid going too heavy as it won't fold easily in standard envelope sizes.

Question 8

How does paper bulk affect print quality?

Accepted Answer

Bulk refers to how thick paper feels relative to its weight. High-bulk paper feels thicker than its GSM suggests—often found in premium uncoated papers. Low-bulk paper is dense and smooth. Bulk affects how the paper feels, folds, and handles during printing and post-processing.

Question 9

What paper finish should I choose—matte, gloss, or satin?

Accepted Answer

Matte offers a sophisticated, professional look with no glare—good for text-heavy prints. Gloss provides vibrant colors and shine—ideal for photos and marketing materials. Satin (soft-touch) is between matte and gloss—premium feel with good color reproduction. Your choice depends on design aesthetic and functionality.

Question 10

Can PrintSH help me choose the right paper weight?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! PrintSH experts can recommend the perfect paper weight based on your project requirements, budget, and desired impression. We offer a wide range of paper stocks from lightweight 60gsm to heavy 400gsm, with various finishes and textures. Contact us for personalized advice.

60-80 GSM	Lightweight—printer paper, memo pads
90-120 GSM	Standard—letterheads, flyers, newsletters
130-170 GSM	Medium—brochures, flyers, promotions
200-300 GSM	Heavy—booklet covers, packaging
350+ GSM	Extra Heavy—luxury cards, rigid packaging

Understanding Paper Weights

What is Paper Weight?

Understanding GSM Ranges

Choosing the Right Weight

Business Cards

Brochures & Flyers

Packaging

Booklets & Manuals

It's Not Just About Weight

Quick Reference Chart

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