The Essential Guide to GSM Paper Stocks

Choosing the right paper stock is an important decision if you want to achieve the best results for your printing projects. Whether you're designing marketing materials, corporate stationery or promotional items, picking the proper GSM is key for sending the right message and enhancing your brand's image.

Our handy little guide explains what GSM is, explores the differences between paper and card stocks, and highlights the various GSM paper stocks we offer.

What is GSM?

GSM stands for Grams per Square Meter, which is a measurement of the weight and thickness of paper. Basically, it tells us how dense and substantial a sheet of paper is. The higher the GSM, the thicker and heavier the paper. Choosing the right GSM can enhance the look, feel and durability of your printed materials.

From 80gsm to 240gsm, paper stocks are perfect for everyday printing needs like flyers, brochures, and letterheads. On the other hand, card stocks, starting from 250gsm, offer a sturdier and more durable option, ideal for business cards, wedding invitations, and postcards. The heaviest paper stock still offers flexibility, while card stock becomes more rigid as the GSM increases, providing a wide range of options for your printing needs.

Our most luscious cardstock is 920gsm, which is available for our luxe business cards. Two pieces of a card cover a coloured sheet of paper to create a sumptuously weighted design that can be personalised to match your company branding.

Paper Types Explained

We offer a comprehensive range of GSM paper stocks that meet every project’s diverse printing requirements. Whether you need lightweight paper for mass printing projects or heavyweight stock for premium branding materials, we have the perfect paper stock for you.

100 to 120gsm

Known for its lightweight and versatile nature, this paper GSM range strikes the perfect balance between affordability and quality. Commonly used in personal printers (60-120gsm) and for high-volume printing projects such as leaflets, newspapers and promotional materials, this paper stock is an excellent choice for businesses looking for cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality.

Its smooth texture and moderate thickness make it exceptionally writable, ensuring that your printed content looks crisp and professional while making it easy to write on. To upgrade the luxury of this lower GSM option, select coated paper finishes like silk and matt, which add a touch of elegance to your designs and enhance their visual appeal.

130 to 170gsm

Stepping up in thickness, this GSM range offers enhanced durability while retaining a manageable weight. Commonly used for items requiring a bit more substance, such as posters, flyers and event programmes, this paper stock is the perfect choice for projects that demand durability and lightness.

Its slightly thicker composition lends a substantial feel to printed materials, especially high-end colour printing, which is crisply captured on the thicker paper stock for maximum impact. This paper's smooth finish adds to its tactile appeal, making it a pleasure to handle whether it’s used for personal or professional projects. Unlike the higher GSM paper stocks, it’s also light enough to easily hang up on walls with blu-tac or other adhesives, which is why this range is particularly popular with artists and designers.

180 to 210gsm

This medium-weight paper GSM range is commonly used in marketing materials. 180gsm to 210gsm is often used on brochures and product catalogues. This paper stock elevates your brand's image and leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

Ink adheres smoothly to its surface, resulting in vibrant and sharp images that capture your audience’s attention. The paper's substantial feel adds a sense of luxury to any project, while its smooth texture enhances readability. This thicker paper stock is also popular with artists and crafters due to the paper’s ability to hold embossing and avoid warping when paint is applied.

220 to 240gsm

Moving into the heaviest paper stock, this medium-weight GSM range offers a substantial feel for a touch of quality and added professionalism. Ideal for cards, menus, invitations and any other project that requires a touch of elegance, its versatility ensures that your printed materials not only look impressive but also convey your message with clarity and impact.

The paper's thicker composition provides a reassuring weight in the hand, conveying a sense of premium artistry. Its smooth surface makes it a pleasure to interact with, while printed designs look crisp and clear.

Card Stock

The highest GSMs we provide, which start at 250gsm, are classified as card stock. This range is used for projects that require a luxurious finish, such as business cards, postcards and wedding invitations. Choosing card stocks can elevate your materials, leaving a lasting impression on recipients and a printed product that will last for many years.

We offer a wide range of premium-quality paper stocks, from lightweight options for everyday printing to heavyweight stocks for special occasions. Our attention to detail and commitment to excellence guarantee that your printing projects will stand out from the crowd. So why wait? Take the first step towards bringing your creative visions to life by ordering our print samples and experiencing our premium paper and card stock for yourself.