Paper Weights Explained: What Does GSM Actually Mean?

GSM stands for grams per square metre — the weight of one square metre of the paper. Higher GSM generally means thicker, stiffer stock. Standard office paper is 80gsm; a typical flyer is 130–170gsm; a decent business card is 350gsm and up.

GSM guide by feel and use

GSM	Feels like	Typical use
80–100	Office paper	Letterheads, documents
120–130	Quality letterhead / light flyer	Compliment slips, economy flyers
150–170	Sturdy flyer, slight rigidity	Standard flyers, posters
200–250	Light card	Premium flyers, booklet covers
300–350	Solid card	Business cards, postcards, invitations
400+	Rigid board	Luxury cards

Does higher GSM always mean better?

No — it means heavier, which suits some jobs and not others. Booklet inner pages above 170gsm resist folding and crack at the spine. Door-drop flyers at 350gsm cost more to print and post for little gain. Match weight to purpose, not maximum.

GSM vs thickness (microns)

Two 300gsm stocks can feel different: bulkier uncoated papers are thicker at the same weight than compressed coated ones. If hand-feel matters, ask for samples — we keep swatches of every stock in the shop.

What do we recommend?

Flyers: 170gsm silk as the sweet spot (prices here). Business cards: 350gsm minimum, 400gsm if you want obvious heft. Posters: 200gsm satin. Letterheads: 120gsm uncoated so they run through office printers.

FAQ

Is 300gsm too flimsy for business cards? It's acceptable; 350gsm is the professional standard. Can you print on paper I supply? Sometimes — it depends on coating and our presses; ask first. Does lamination change the feel? Yes, it adds stiffness and protection — see card finishes compared.