What is paper weight (g/m²) and how to choose it?

The number you hear most when buying paper is its weight: 80, 120, 170, 300… But what do these numbers mean, and which one should you choose for which job? This article explains paper weight in plain language and gives a practical reference list.

What is paper weight?

Paper weight (grammage) is the weight in grams of one square metre of paper, written as g/m² or gsm. For example, one square metre of 80 g/m² office paper weighs 80 grams. The higher the number, the thicker and stiffer the paper usually is.

Weight and thickness are not the same

Two papers of the same weight can have different thickness. Thickness (caliper) is measured in microns (µm) and depends on the paper’s density. A soft, bulky paper looks thicker at the same weight, while a dense coated paper is thinner. That is why it always helps to feel a sample in your hand.

What is "lb" in foreign catalogues?

US catalogues use terms like "100 lb text" or "80 lb cover". This system is based on basis sheets of different sizes, so the same "lb" number means different thickness in different categories. For comparison, g/m² is the most reliable figure.

Which weight for which job?

• 70–90 g/m² – office paper, documents, forms
• 100–130 g/m² – letterheads, flyers, stationery
• 150–170 g/m² – leaflets, brochures, posters
• 200–250 g/m² – catalogue covers, postcards, invitation inserts
• 300–350 g/m² – business cards, invitations, hang tags
• 400 g/m² and above – premium cards, packaging, boxes

What to keep in mind

• Printer capability – not every digital press accepts heavy stock; check the specifications.
• Folding – paper heavier than about 170 g/m² needs scoring before folding.
• Weight and shipping – heavy paper increases postage for multi-page items.
• Feel – clients perceive thicker paper as higher quality.
• Opacity – on thin paper, double-sided print may show through.

Useful tool

To calculate the weight and price of the paper you need, try the "Kağızı Hesabla" (paper calculator) page on our website.

Printshop offers designer papers, board, lamination film, foil and binding materials. For details and prices, call or message us on WhatsApp: 050 890 11 44. Address: A.Salamzade street, Baku.