Paper Weight FAQ
What is GSM?
GSM stands for Grams per Square Metre. It is the international standard used to describe paper weight. Higher GSM generally means a heavier and thicker sheet.
Is paper weight the same as thickness?
No. Weight and thickness are different measurements. Two papers with the same GSM can have different calipers (thicknesses) depending on their construction and bulk.
What GSM is standard office paper?
Most office and copier paper falls between 75gsm and 90gsm.
Examples
- 75gsm = standard office paper
- 80gsm = premium office paper
- 90gsm = heavier office stock
What GSM should I use for flyers?
Typical flyer weights:
- 100gsm
- 120gsm
- 130gsm
- 150gsm
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What GSM should I use for brochures?
Typical brochure text pages:
- 120gsm
- 130gsm
- 150gsm
- 170gsm
Typical brochure covers:
- 250gsm
- 300gsm
Recommended Products
- Nice Art Silk
- Nice Art Gloss
- Arena Extra White
What GSM is best for annual reports?
Typical annual report text:
- 100gsm
- 120gsm
- 150gsm
Typical annual report cover:
- 300gsm
- 350gsm
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- Nice Art Silk
- Arena Extra White
- Inspira Opaque
What GSM should I use for direct mail?
The answer depends on the format.
Typical ranges:
- Self-mailers: 250gsm to 350gsm
- Postcards: 300gsm to 350gsm
- Brochure mailers: 120gsm to 170gsm text with 250gsm to 300gsm cover
What GSM should I use for business cards?
Typical business card weights:
Standard
- 300gsm
- 350gsm
Premium
- 350gsm+
- 400gsm+
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- Nice Art Silk
- Sirio Ultra Black
- Sirio Pearl
- Textured Uncoated
What GSM should I use for postcards?
Most postcards use:
- 250gsm
- 300gsm
- 350gsm
Recommended Products
- Nice Art Gloss
- Nice Art Silk
What GSM should I use for invitations?
Common invitation weights:
- 300gsm
- 350gsm
Luxury invitations
- 350gsm+
Recommended Products
- Sirio Pearl
- Pearlescents
- Textured Uncoated
- Sirio Ultra Black
What GSM should I use for letterhead?
Most letterhead uses:
- 90gsm
- 100gsm
- 120gsm
Recommended Products
- Inspira Opaque
- Arena Extra White
- Nice Brite
What GSM should I use for packaging?
Packaging is more dependent on caliper and board structure than GSM alone.
Common ranges:
- 250gsm
- 300gsm
- 350gsm
- 400gsm+
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- Nice Lite C1S
- Kraft Packaging Boards
What GSM feels premium?
Premium perception varies by application.
Typical premium weights:
- Brochures: 150gsm text
- Covers: 300gsm
- Business cards: 350gsm+
- Invitations: 350gsm+
What GSM feels luxurious?
Luxury print often uses:
- 300gsm to 400gsm covers
- Specialty substrates
- Premium finishing
Common products:
- Sirio Pearl
- Sirio Ultra Black
- Textured Uncoated
What GSM should I use for menus?
Paper menus
- 250gsm
- 300gsm
Waterproof menus typically use synthetic materials where thickness (microns or mils) is more important than GSM.
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What GSM should I use for books?
Book interiors
- 80gsm
- 90gsm
- 100gsm
- 120gsm
Book covers
- 250gsm
- 300gsm
Recommended Products
- Arena Extra White
- Inspira Opaque
- Nice Art Silk
What GSM is too heavy?
That depends on:
- Press capability
- Folding requirement
- Binding method
- Application
Weights above 350gsm should be verified against press and finishing specifications.
What is the difference between 300gsm and 350gsm?
A 350gsm sheet generally feels:
- More rigid
- More substantial
- More premium
Typical uses:
- 300gsm: brochures, postcards, invitations
- 350gsm: premium business cards and luxury print
What GSM is best for HP Indigo?
HP Indigo can run a wide range of substrates.
Common choices:
- 120gsm to 170gsm for text
- 250gsm to 350gsm for covers
- Synthetic materials for specialty applications
Always confirm compatibility for specific press models and substrates.
Is heavier paper always better?
No.
The best weight is determined by:
- Application
- User experience
- Mailing requirements
- Budget
- Finishing requirements
A properly specified 150gsm brochure can outperform an unnecessarily heavy brochure that feels cumbersome.
What GSM should I specify if I don’t know where to start?
Quick guide
Flyers
- 130gsm
Brochures
- 150gsm text
- 300gsm cover
Business Cards
- 350gsm
Postcards
- 300gsm
Letterhead
- 100gsm
Annual Reports
- 120gsm text
- 300gsm cover
Invitations
- 350gsm
Packaging
- Nice Lite C1S board