When preparing for a paper-based print project, one of the choices before you is “what paper stock should I use?”
In printing, paper stock is defined by multiple metrics such as: weight, coating, finish/texture and brightness.
How are Weight & Thickness Defined re: Paper stock?
How “heavy” a piece of paper is can be designated by weight, thickness or density. The heavier / thicker the paper, the stronger and stiffer it will be. No matter which measurement is used, the higher the number the heavier the paper.
Weight by Pounds
The pound (lb or #) designation derives from the literal weight of 500 sheets of uncut stock. 20 lb paper means 500 uncut sheets of it weighed 20 pounds.
NOTE: different papers have different standard sizes of uncut sheets, so all 20 lb papers are not the same thickness individually. And there’s a further wrinkle — paper is typically classified as either Text or Cover — both of which include sub-classifications.
Text refers to lighter and thinner stocks that can be easily folded and includes: Book, Ledger, Bond, Writing and Offset categories. These categories describe their principle uses (bond being a heavier version of Writing paper).
Cover refers to heavier, thicker stocks that essentially feel and behave like various grades of cardboard. Cover stock is used for covers (!), post cards, business cards, greeting cards, etc. Under the umbrella of Cover are: Bristol, Index, Tag and Card.
Key point: 20 lb TEXT paper is going to be thinner than 20 lb COVER paper.
Weight by Points
The point (pt) designation refers to thickness of a piece of paper measured in thousandths of an inch. 10 pts equals 0.010 inches.
Weight by Density
Paper density is measured in grams per square meter (gsm). Like feet versus meters, sometimes you will see paper measurements both as gsm and pounds or points. It is possible to have a thinner piece of paper weigh more than a thicker piece if the paper is more dense.
Due to the variations within categories it’s always best to actually see and feel paper samples and discuss the goals of your project with your printer before making a final selection of paper stock. The way the final piece will be used: whether it needs to be mailed, subjected to lots of handling, expected to last a long time or be disposable all impact the choice.
If you have any questions about paper weights and thickness, give us a call at 330-597-8560. We’re happy to help you get the most out of your printing project.
