Check out our latest Office & Stationery collection!
Ever grabbed a sheet of paper and wondered what “80 GSM” or “120 GSM” really means? Those numbers might seem like boring details, but they shape how your writing or printing turns out. GSM, or grams per square meter, is all about a paper’s thickness and quality—it changes how ink sits on the page, whether it bleeds through, and if the paper feels flimsy or substantial. Understanding GSM is honestly the secret to picking the right paper, whether you’re scribbling a note or printing out something you want to last.
Most of us have dealt with marker ink soaking through or pages that just don’t feel right. When you get what paper weight means, you can control your results, whether you’re making invitations, printing resumes, or just want a smoother writing experience. It might even save you money or help you cut down on waste.
Key Takeaways
- GSM tells you how sturdy and ink-friendly a paper is.
- The right GSM can seriously improve writing and print quality.
- Knowing GSM helps dodge annoying paper problems.
What Is Paper Weight?
Paper weight is basically how thick, sturdy, or light a sheet feels in your hand. Once you get the numbers, picking the right type for notebooks, printers, or art projects gets way easier.
Defining GSM (Grams Per Square Meter)
GSM stands for grams per square meter, and it’s the worldwide way to measure paper weight. It’s just the mass in grams of a single square meter of paper, no matter how big or small your actual sheet is.
Higher GSM means a thicker, sturdier sheet. Lower GSM? That’s lighter and more flexible. Notebook pages usually land between 70–90 GSM, printer paper is most often 80 GSM, and heavy cardstock for things like postcards or business cards can go over 200 GSM.
GSM is great because it ignores the original size of the paper—just focuses on density. That makes comparing paper types so much simpler.
How Paper Weight Is Measured
Most paper makers weigh a 1m x 1m square for a consistent number. If you have an 80 GSM paper, one square meter of it will weigh 80 grams. (No one’s printing posters that huge at home, but still.)
In the US, you’ll sometimes see basis weight—pounds per ream of a specific size. That system is honestly pretty confusing. For example, 20 lb bond paper and 20 lb cover paper feel different, even though the numbers match. GSM just makes more sense.
We stick to GSM for clarity. When you’re comparing paper, GSM gives you a clear answer, fast.
Common Weight Terminology Explained
You’ll hear a few phrases tossed around when people talk about paper weight. Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
- Text Weight: Used for printer paper, book pages, letterhead. Usually 70–120 GSM.
- Cover/Cardstock: Thicker stuff for covers or greeting cards. Starts near 160 GSM, can go way above 300 GSM.
- Bond Paper: Everyday office and copier paper, typically 75–100 GSM.
- Index: Another thick paper, often for index cards, a bit lighter than cover stock.
Here’s a handy table:
| Type | Typical GSM Range |
|---|---|
| Printer Paper | 70–90 GSM |
| Notebooks | 70–100 GSM |
| Cardstock | 160–350 GSM |
| Art Paper | 120–300 GSM |
Knowing these terms keeps you from grabbing something too flimsy for watercolors or too rigid for your printer.
The Importance of GSM in Paper Selection
GSM is the number you want to check if you care about crisp handwriting, solid print quality, or just the right feel in your hands.
Impact of GSM on Writing Experience
When you start writing, GSM changes how the paper feels under your hand. Low GSM (60-80 gsm) is light and flexible—think basic notebooks. It’s fine for jotting notes, but ink can bleed through or ghost. If you bump up to 90-120 gsm, you get a sturdier, smoother surface that holds ink better and fights off feathering.
You’ll notice the difference if you use fountain pens or markers. Heavier paper stops wrinkling and even muffles that scratchy pen sound a bit—nice if you get distracted easily. If you’re into journaling or scrapbooking, go for at least 100 gsm to keep your pages clean and smudge-free.
| GSM Range | Common Use | Writing Quality |
|---|---|---|
| 60-80 gsm | Basic notebooks, printers | Thinner, more bleed |
| 90-120 gsm | Journals, stationery | Smoother, robust surface |
| 120+ gsm | Cardstock, art papers | Extra sturdy, premium |
Effect of GSM on Printing Results
Printing really depends on GSM. For regular home or office prints, 70-90 gsm works, but if you need sharp detail—resumes or photo-rich pages—heavier paper (100 gsm and up) delivers crisper results. Thicker sheets won’t curl and help ink sit evenly.
Inkjet printers usually like 90-120 gsm best, while lasers can sometimes handle even heavier paper. Always check your printer’s manual to avoid jams. For certificates or invitations, 150-200 gsm gives you that sturdy, upscale vibe.
- Low GSM (60-80): Best for drafts, quick memos
- Mid GSM (90-120): Great for reports, projects
- High GSM (120-200): Perfect for covers, marketing
Matching GSM to Usage Scenarios
Picking GSM depends on what you’re doing. Everyday printing and notes? 70-80 gsm keeps it cheap and light. For presentations or important docs, 100 gsm or more looks and feels more professional.
Creative projects—greeting cards, art prints, brochures—usually need 150 gsm and up for durability and that satisfying heft. Packaging sometimes goes above 300 gsm, but that’s getting into cardboard territory.
Here’s a cheat sheet:
- 70-80 gsm: Office and school basics
- 90-120 gsm: Letters, resumes, crafts
- 150+ gsm: Invitations, covers, art prints
Choosing the right GSM changes not just how things look, but how they feel and handle. It’s one of those details that’s easy to overlook, but actually makes a big difference.
Comparing Popular Paper Weights
We use all sorts of paper every day, from printer stacks to greeting cards. Each one feels different, and that’s mostly down to GSM.
Everyday Printer Paper GSM
Most everyday printer paper falls between 70 and 90 GSM. Home and office printers usually use paper in this range because it balances price and function.
Standard 80 GSM paper is the go-to for printing emails, worksheets, and drafts. It’s light, runs smoothly through most printers, and doesn’t make your binder too bulky.
Lower GSM can cause ink to show through, especially with heavy coverage. If you print double-sided, bumping up to 90 GSM can help with opacity and just feels a bit nicer for reports or resumes.
| GSM Range | Common Use |
|---|---|
| 70-80 GSM | Home printing |
| 80-90 GSM | Office docs |
Specialty Papers: Photo and Art Paper GSM
Photo and art papers are a different story—they’re much heavier. Photo paper usually starts at 180 GSM and can go above 300 GSM for thick, gallery-level prints.
Art papers, like watercolor or cardstock, land in the 200–400 GSM range, so they can handle paint or markers without curling. Heavier paper just feels better and makes artwork more durable.
Finish matters too: glossy photo papers are thicker than matte, and textured art papers need extra GSM for durability. You’ll feel the difference the second you pick them up—it’s not just a number thing.
Stationery and Premium Paper GSM
When you pick up a wedding invite or a nice letterhead, you’re usually holding premium paper in the 100 to 160 GSM range.
How GSM Affects Ink Absorption and Bleed-Through
The GSM you choose changes how ink behaves. It affects how sharp your lines look and whether your notes turn into a blurry mess or stay crisp.
Ink Behavior on Different Weights
Low-GSM paper (under 80 GSM) tends to soak up ink fast because it’s thinner and more porous. That can cause feathering, where lines spread and get fuzzy. If your text ever looks blurry or “fans out,” lightweight paper is probably the reason.
Heavier paper (100 GSM and up) has a denser, smoother surface. Ink sits more on top, so your lines stay sharp and you’re less likely to see show-through. You’ll notice this with fountain pens or markers.
Quick comparison:
| Paper Weight | Ink Absorption Speed | Bleed-Through Risk |
|---|---|---|
| 60-80 GSM | High | High |
| 90-120 GSM | Moderate | Low to moderate |
| 130+ GSM | Low | Minimal to none |
Thicker paper just keeps your writing looking better.
Preventing Smudges and Ghosting
Smudging and ghosting can ruin the fun of writing or printing. Smudges happen when ink doesn’t dry fast—super annoying, especially for lefties. Thin, low-GSM paper makes this worse by soaking ink unevenly and drying slowly.
Ghosting is when you can see ink from the other side, even if it hasn’t bled through. To avoid both, go for at least 90 GSM if you use wet ink or print double-sided.
Some papers have special coatings to help ink dry faster and stop it from spreading. For journals, planners, and art, higher GSM means your notes and sketches stay sharp, even if your pen is a little inky.
Choosing the Right GSM for Your Project
Picking the right GSM is really about what you want your project to look and feel like. Every kind of project—basic paperwork, fancy invitations, you name it—works best with a certain GSM.
Selecting GSM for Business Documents
For reports, letterheads, and everyday printing, you want something that feels professional but doesn’t jam your printer. The sweet spot: 80-120 GSM.
Here’s a quick guide:
| Document Type | Recommended GSM |
|---|---|
| Standard Printer Paper | 80-90 GSM |
| Letterheads | 90-100 GSM |
| Reports & Presentation | 100-120 GSM |
Paper under 80 GSM feels flimsy and can let ink show through. Go much above 120 GSM, and most office printers start to struggle—and your documents get bulky fast.
Ideal GSM for Invitations and Cards
Invitations, greeting cards, and other keepsakes just feel better with a bit of heft. For these, anything between 200 and 400 GSM gives that satisfying “wow, this feels nice” moment when you pick it up.
Quick cheat sheet:
- Invitations: 220-300 GSM—sturdy, but not over the top.
- Postcards: 250-350 GSM to survive the mail.
- Greeting Cards: 250-400 GSM if you want them to stand up and feel fancy.
If you pick something lighter, cards might flop or bend. Go over 400 GSM and you’re basically holding cardboard—fun, but most printers and envelopes won’t cooperate.
Artistic Applications and GSM Considerations
Artists and crafters, this is where things get interesting. GSM really matters for creative work. Sketching and watercolor papers usually start at 160 GSM and can hit 600 GSM or more.
For dry stuff like pencils, 160-220 GSM keeps the paper from buckling and gives a nice tooth. Watercolorists almost always reach for 300 GSM+ so the sheet doesn’t curl up or tear when it gets wet.
If you’re layering mixed media or splashing on acrylics, heavier stock is your friend. Always check that the paper’s GSM fits your medium, or you might end up with a soggy, warped mess—not exactly gallery material.
GSM vs. Other Paper Measurement Systems
Shopping for paper, you’ll spot more than just GSM on the label. Different countries and industries use their own systems, which can get confusing fast.
Pounds (lb) vs. GSM
In the US, you’ll see pounds (lb). Most everywhere else, it’s GSM. GSM stands for grams per square meter—a straightforward way to measure paper density. Pound weight, though, is based on the weight of a ream (usually 500 sheets) at a specific base size, which changes depending on the paper type.
So, a 20 lb bond paper is nothing like a 20 lb cover stock. Here’s a handy chart:
| Paper Type | Pounds (lb) | Approx. GSM |
|---|---|---|
| Office Copy Paper | 20 lb | 75 gsm |
| Cardstock | 80 lb | 216 gsm |
Always check both the paper type and the weight. Mixing up pounds and GSM can leave you with the wrong thickness for your project.
Basis Weight and Its Confusion Factor
Basis weight is a North American thing, and it’s pretty easy to get tripped up. It refers to the weight of a ream cut to a “basis size,” but that size isn’t the same for all papers. For bond paper, it might be 17" x 22", but for cover stock, it could be 20" x 26".
A 24 lb bond isn’t the same as a 24 lb cover. You can’t just read the number and know what you’re getting. Pay attention to both the weight and the grade, especially if you’re printing or designing.
Environmental and Cost Implications of GSM
GSM affects both how much paper you use and what you pay. Heavier paper looks and feels great, but every gram counts for your wallet and the environment.
Sustainability and Heavier Papers
Choosing higher GSM means you’re using more raw material per sheet. Print a 100-page book on 120 gsm instead of 60 gsm, and you’ll double the pulp, water, and energy used.
Heavier paper isn’t always as easy to recycle, especially if it’s coated or has synthetic fibers. Look for certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or PEFC so you know your heavier paper isn’t wasteful.
Hauling and storing heavier stock also bumps up carbon emissions. Every extra kilo on a shipping pallet adds up, especially in bulk. If you’re worried about sustainability, stick with moderate GSM or recycled materials—they really do make a difference.
Price Differences by Weight
GSM plays a big role in paper cost. Higher GSM means you’ll pay more per ream. Thicker paper costs more to make, ship, and store. Here’s a quick look:
| GSM | Typical Use | Approximate Price per 500 Sheets (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 60-80 gsm | Everyday printing | $6 – $10 |
| 100-120 gsm | Quality letters | $13 – $20 |
| 160+ gsm | Cards, covers | $25+ |
Bulk orders and special finishes (like glossy or textured) can crank up the price even more. The splurge might be worth it for wedding invites or portfolios, but it’s overkill for daily office stuff. Picking the right GSM keeps your projects sharp and your budget happy.
Tips for Testing and Identifying Paper Weight
When you’re holding a sheet, guessing the GSM isn’t always easy. The touch test helps—thicker, heavier paper feels stiffer and more solid.
Want to get technical? Grab a digital scale:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Cut out a 10x10 cm square of the paper |
| 2 | Weigh it in grams |
| 3 | Multiply by 100 to estimate GSM |
Check the packaging too—many reams list GSM on the wrapper. Saves some guesswork.
If you want a quick comparison, just hold two sheets up to a light. Thinner, lower GSM paper lets more light through. Not super scientific, but it works in a pinch.
You can also test with pens: water-based ink often bleeds through lighter papers. If your ink smudges or shows through, you’re probably working with low GSM.
It’s actually kind of fun to collect paper swatches from different notebooks and printers for side-by-side comparison. Making your own reference chart can save a headache later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Paper GSM isn’t just a number—it changes how your printing looks and feels. Here’s how GSM matters for printing, writing, and everyday use.
What's the skinny on GSM when it comes to print perfection?
GSM stands for "grams per square meter." It tells us how heavy and thick a sheet of paper is.
For printing, 80-120 GSM works for most documents. Photos and presentations usually look better on heavier, smoother stocks—think 170 GSM and up.
Ever wonder if thick or thin paper brings your photos to life better?
Thicker paper (200+ GSM) makes photos pop with richer colors and less curl or show-through.
Thin paper saves space but can leave photos looking dull and flimsy. You’ll get crisper images on sturdier stock.
Is your pen pals envious? Could GSM be your secret?
A higher GSM makes handwritten letters feel more special. Send a note on 120 GSM or above and it stands out—plus, ink usually won’t bleed through.
Standard printer paper (about 80 GSM) works, but a premium stock leaves a mark.
Got printer woes? Could paper GSM be the culprit?
Yep, sometimes jams and misfeeds happen because of mismatched GSM. Most home printers handle 70-120 GSM fine.
Try to load thicker stock and you might get stuck, unless you check your printer’s specs. It’s worth double-checking before you load up with heavy card stock.
Looking to bulk up? How does GSM impact paper strength and feel?
Higher GSM means a tougher, stiffer sheet. That helps prevent creasing, makes handling easier, and just feels better in your hand.
Invitations, business cards, and postcards usually land in the 200-350 GSM range for exactly that reason.
Caught in a GSM web? Discover which weight wins for writing without the strain.
If you’re writing every day, paper in the 90-120 GSM range usually feels just right. It’s smooth, holds up well, and you won’t deal with much bleed-through or ghosting.
Go lighter, and you might notice ink feathering or the page feeling a bit too flimsy. On the flip side, heavier sheets last longer but can feel stiff or tiring during long writing sessions.