What is Paper Weight in Printing: Understanding GSM vs LBS?

Have you ever picked up a business card or brochure and instantly felt its quality? That’s the power of paper weight. The thickness and texture of your paper can turn an ordinary piece of print into a tactile experience that leaves a lasting impression.

68% of consumers perceive brands as more premium when using heavier paper stock (According to the Paper Industry Association)

Whether you're designing marketing materials like a booklet or pamphlet or creating a personal project, choosing the right paper weight is crucial for both durability and aesthetic appeal.

This guide will break down everything you need to know about paper weight and help you make the best choice for your next project. Let’s jump right in.

Paper Weight Defined

What does paper weight mean? Let’s define it.

Paper weight, also known as the basis of weight, refers to the thickness and hardness of the paper and is measured in GSM (grams per square meter) or LBS (pounds)-  the unit of measurement. It helps you understand the thickness and density of the paper material you touch.

The higher the GSM, the higher the thickness. (higher GSM = higher thickness)

This measurement is crucial because it decides the durability, textures, and effectiveness of your paper content.

It is essential to have a clear understanding of paper weight. When you are proficient in knowing paper thickness, you will be confident to choose a paper containing enough thickness to fulfill your needs.

How Much Does A Sheet Of Paper Weight

The weight of a single paper sheet depends upon its thickness. However, a printing paper sheet like A4 or letter paper weighs 4.5 gsm.

Different Types Of Paper Weight

The paper weight is categorized into different types. From office paper and light cardstock to specialty papers, there are various paper weight types discovered. It depends upon you what paper weight you select for your project.

1. Office Papers and Writing Stock (20 - 50 lb | 75 - 160 gsm)

Office papers and writing stocks commonly used in offices or homes describe various types of paper products and come in different sizes and textures. What paper weight is cardstock? Check the paper weight chart below.

Office Papers

• Copy Paper - 20 lb (75 gsm)

Standard paper is often used for printing and copying.

• Bond Paper - (20 lb to 24 lb)

Durable and frequently used for letterhead, legal documents, and forms.

• Multipurpose Paper - (24 lb or 90 gsm)

Slightly heavier and suitable for printing high-quality documents.

• Index Paper - 90 lb or 160 gsm)

Heavier paper is used for index cards and dividers.

Writing Stocks

• Writing Paper 24 lb (90 gsm)

Higher-quality paper is used for personal letters and correspondence.

• Journal or Notebook Paper (16-18 lb or 60-70 gsm)

Typically lighter paper, designed for note-taking and journaling.

• Stationery (80 lb or 216 gsm)

Specialty paper, often thicker designed for formal letters, invitations, and cards.

• Notecards (110 lb or 300 gsm)

Sturdy cards are used for notes, greetings, and invitations.

2. Text Papers (60 - 100 lb - 89 | 148 gsm)

Text papers coming in various sizes offering different aesthetics are designed for high-quality writing and printing. The weight calculation is as:

• 60 lb (89 gsm)

Used for standard text documents, brochures, and booklets.

• 70 lb (104 gsm)

Keeping a balance between quality and cost, it is an exclusive choice for flyers and marketing materials.

• 80 lb (118 gsm)

Commonly used for covers of magazines, reports, and premium stationery.

• 100 lb (148 gsm)

Heavier and sturdier options. Perfect for high-end presentations, professional reports, and specialty applications.

3. Light Cardstocks (58-70 lb | 157 - 190 gsm)

Light cardstocks providing a balance between durability and flexibility are a versatile choice. Ideal for:

• Brochures
• Flyers
• Personal or DIY projects

Their weight breakdown is here.

• 60 lb (162 gsm)

Suitable for light-duty applications such as notecards, greeting cards, and simple crafts.

• 65 lb (176 gsm)

Used for business cards, covers for booklets, and invitations.

• 70 lb (190 gsm)

Ideal for thicker greeting cards, postcards, and durable flyers.

• 80 lb (216 gsm)

Frequently used for high-quality invitations, premium business cards, and covers for presentations.

Read More: What You Need To Know Printing on Sublimation Material

4. Midweight Cardstocks (80 - 100 lb | 216 - 280 gsm)

Having flexibility and sturdiness, midweight cardstocks provide a personal and business feel to your content printing, from business cards and flyers to invitation cards. Its weight ranges are shown below.

• 80 lb (216 gsm)

Most commonly used for premium invitations, high-quality greeting cards, and covers for brochures.

• 90 lb (250 gsm)

Favorable for thicker flyers, custom postcards, and durable presentation covers.

• 100 lb (270 gsm)

Often used for professional business cards, report covers, and heavier invitations.

• 110 lb (300 gsm)

Exemplary for sturdy projects such as art prints, robust business cards, and cardstock used in crafting.

5. Heavy Cardstocks (110-130 lb | 298 - 352 gsm)

Providing quality and strength, heavy cardstocks are specially designed to give a professional and substantial feel. They are found in different weight ranges.

• 110 lb (300 gsm)

Offering a luxury sense used for heavyweight and premium-quality business cards, invitations, and art prints.

• 120 lb (325 gsm)

Having thickness and durability, an excellent choice for thicker presentations, premium postcards, and sturdy covers.

• 130 lb (350 gsm)

Frequently used for deluxe business cards, heavy-duty invitations, retail hang bags, and special projects requiring maximum durability.

6. Specialty Papers (140 lb and up | 378 gsm and more)

Providing distinctive features, finishes, and colors, these specialty papers are designed for specific applications. Their weight breakdown is here.

• Lightweight Specialty Papers

20 lb to 60 lb (75 to 162 gsm): Used for items like fine art prints, lightweight invitations, and decorative papers.

• Midweight Specialty Papers

70 lb to 100 lb (104 to 270 gsm): Most common for premium invitations, high-quality custom stationery boxes, and photo paper.

• Heavyweight Specialty Papers

110 lb to 130 lb (300 to 350 gsm): Perfect for business cards, hardcover bookbinding, thick invitations, and art prints requiring sturdiness.

Paper Weight Conversion Chart from GSM to Pounds

Here’s the conversion of gsm paper weight to LBS.

• 100 GSM paper = 68 lbs
• 110 GSM paper = 74 lbs
• 120 GSM paper = 81 lbs
• 150 GSM paper = 101 lbs
• 180 GSM paper = 122 lbs
• 200 GSM paper = 135 lbs

What is the Suggested Resume Paper Weight?

For a resume, it is recommended to use a paper that is heavier than standard printer paper. The ideal weight for a resume paper ranges from 24 lb (90 gsm) and 32 lb (120 gsm).

Heavier 24 lb to 32 lb paper provides a more substantial feel and can make a positive impression and tactile experience.

What is the Standard Business Card Paper Weight?

The most common paper weight for business cards is 300 GSM, equivalent to 14 points. This weight offers a good balance between durability and cost-effectiveness. You can consider 350 GSM or higher for a more premium feel.

How Do You Calculate Paper Weight?

How much does paper weigh? Can I calculate the paper weight myself? What's a good watercolor paperweight? Several questions come to mind while deciding on a printing paper.

A paperweight calculator can help you measure the weight of the paper. It involves understanding the weight of a ream (500 sheets) of paper in its basic size.

Simple Steps To Calculate Paper Weight

1. Determine the Paper Size: (An example of Letter size paper is 8.5" x 11").
2. Find the Weight of a Ream in pounds (lb) or grams per square meter (gsm)
3. Calculate the Basis Weight: For pounds (lb), reflecting the weight of 500 sheets, and for gsm, reflecting the weight of one square meter of paper.

To convert lb to gsm:

gsm=(lb×453.59237basic size in sq. meters)\text{gsm} = \left(\frac{\text{lb} \times 453.59237}{\text{basic size in sq. meters}}\right)gsm=(basic size in sq. meterslb×453.59237​)

To convert gsm to lb:

lb=(gsm×basic size in sq. meters453.59237)\text{lb} = \left(\frac{\text{gsm} \times \text{basic size in sq. meters}}{453.59237}\right)lb=(453.59237gsm×basic size in sq. meters​)

To Sum Up

Choosing the right paper weight can elevate your creative project from unusual to exceptional. The thickness and measurement of the printing paper you select allow you to use suitable finishes along with the right printing techniques, and can leave a great impact.

For assistance related to the ideal paper boxes weight for your next project, contact Custom Product Packaging. We can help you choose the most suitable paper in perfect density and durability catering to your needs. Send your project specs to orders@customproductpackaging.com for personalized recommendations.