Wait… What’s the Weight?
How Paper Weight Is Measured
Waaayyyy back in season 1, we discussed (and hopefully clarified!) the different systems for measuring paper weight. It can be confusing, so we thought it’d be great to have it written out for easy reference here!
There are three main systems for measuring paper weight, and each gives you different insights into how the paper will feel and perform. Let’s get into the finer points (get it!?)!
1. U.S. Basis Weight (lbs)
This traditional American method is based on the weight of 500 sheets (a ream) of paper in its uncut parent sheet size. The catch? Each paper type has a different parent sheet size. So 80 lb cover and 80 lb text are very different thicknesses.
Here are a few common parent sheet sizes:
So when you see “20 lb bond,” it means 500 sheets of 17x22 paper weigh 20 pounds. Confusing? A little. That’s why most paper also lists a metric weight...
2. Metric Weight (GSM)
The international (and much more logical) system is grams per square meter (GSM). It tells you the weight of a 1m x 1m sheet, regardless of paper type.
Since GSM is based on area, it’s easier to compare apples to apples—no guessing based on parent sheet size. For example:
3. Caliper (Points or Mils)
This final system we’ll touch on measures thickness in thousandths of an inch.
1 point = 0.001”
For example, 12 pt paper = 0.012” thick
This is especially useful for packaging, postcards, and anything where stiffness or postal compatibility matters.
Common Paper Categories
Let’s look at how different papers are classified by their use and weight range:
Bond (16-26 lb) - Standard writing, printer, or copy paper
Lighter: faxes, quick prints
Mid: reports, legal docs
Heavier: double-sided printing, resumes, flyers
Cover (60–120 lb) - Also known as cardstock—thick and sturdy.
Used for: business cards, menus, invitations, hang tags
Tag (100–200 lb) - A durable, stiff paper for retail and signage.
Think table tents, retail tags, file folders
Book (30–115 lb) - Comes coated or uncoated.
Used in books, catalogs, magazines, and posters
Text (50–100 lb) - A step up from book paper, often more elegant.
Great for stationery, programs, fine printed pieces
Comparing Common Paper Weights (U.S. + Metric)
Here’s how paper weights translate between systems, especially helpful when selecting paper for different print needs:
Note: Standard home printers often max out around 200–215 GSM.
Paper Finishes: Coated vs. Uncoated
We did expand a bit on paper finishes in another post, here!
Coated Paper
Has a glossy, matte, or satin coating added to improve print sharpness and brightness.
Repels moisture and resists wear.
Great for flood printing and photography-heavy projects.
Example: Mohawk Superfine Smooth (coated)
Uncoated Paper
No surface coating = more texture and absorbency.
Softer prints, less vibrant color—but easier to write on.
Ideal for invitations, reply cards, books, and anything with hand-written elements.
Example: Mohawk Superfine Eggshell (uncoated)
HOT TIP: Pantone color guides distinguish between (C) coated and (U) uncoated swatches—because the same color will look different depending on the finish.
Final Thoughts
Paper weight and finish can feel like a complicated topic, but once you understand the systems—basis weight, GSM, and caliper—it’s much easier to compare options and pick the right sheet for the job.
If you’re designing for print, always check with your printer for their preferred specs. And when in doubt? Order a swatch book, test a few samples, and get a feel for what works best for your project.
Need help choosing a paper for your next letterpress job? Drop your questions in the comments or subscribe for more behind-the-scenes posts about paper, printing, and design!
