Stationery Design

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A Guide to Paper Weight and Application
Understanding GSM and Suggested Paper Weights for Printed Media
What is GSM?
GSM (Grams per Square Metre) is the industry standard measurement for weight (thickness) of paper stock. It allows buyers and suppliers to guage the quality of paper when ordering. In general stock with a higher GSM number will offer improved weight and feel but certain media is suited to a specific GSM number. The list below provides an industry bench mark to the suggested GSM for popular printed material. In most instances the figures quoted represents the lowest GSM in which to achieve an acceptable standard of quality associated with the chosen material.
Commonly Printed Media Types - Suggested GSM
Newspapers35-55gsm
Envelopes100gsm
Letterheads120gsm
Compliments Slips120gsm
Roller Banners120gsm
Posters120gsm
BrochuresCover 250gsm - Inner Pages 130gsm
Leaflets/Flyers170gsm
Postcards250-400gsm
Presentation Folders350gsm
Business Cards300-400gsm
When Does Paper Become Card?
Typically paper becomes card/board at weights above 300gsm and when larger surface areas can support themselves and appear more rigid. A business card at around 350-400gsm is a good example of the transistion point.
Request Samples
If you have no benchmark or direct reference to the weight of the material you are producing request some printed samples from your chosen printer. This will help you to establish how variations in stock weight and finish can affect the feel and quality of your printed media. Though marginal additional print finishing such as lamination is a coating and can add to the final weight of the printed material.

Expertise

BRAND DEVELOPMENT
VISUAL IDENTITY
COMPANY STATIONERY
FLYERS/LEAFLETS/POSTERS
BANNER + SIGNAGE DESIGN
CORPORATE LITERATURE
REPORTS/DOCUMENTATION
BRAND GUIDELINES
ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS
DESIGN MANAGEMENT
RESPONSIVE WEB DESIGN
SOCIAL MEDIA BRANDING

Further Help

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