Are you ordering a print job and wondering what exactly paper weight means? This is one of the most frequently asked questions among printing house customers. And although it sounds technical, understanding it helps to avoid many mistakes and… unnecessary costs. Here are six key things to consider before deciding on a specific paper for printing.
1. Paper weight and thickness are not the same thing
Contrary to appearances, weight and thickness are not the same thing. Weight refers to the weight of paper per square meter (g/m²), while thickness also depends on the structure and composition. For example, uncoated paper with a weight of 120 g/m² may be thicker than coated paper with a weight of 150 g/m². Therefore, do not rely solely on numbers – it is best to compare samples.
2. Paper weight affects stiffness and durability
It is the weight that determines how the paper feels in your hand. The higher the weight, the greater the stiffness—but beware, this is not always an advantage. For example:
- 90–120 g/m² paper – most commonly used inside books, notebooks, and exercise books. Flexible, easy to turn pages.
- 130–170 g/m² paper – ideal for leaflets, posters, and brochures. Still flexible, but more durable.
- 200–350 g/m² paper – used for covers, business cards, invitations. Stiff and durable.
- Above 350 g/m² – cardboard, packaging, boxes. Requires proper creasing.
The choice should not be random – it depends on the function of the project and the expected effect.
3. Higher weight does not always mean better results
Many customers believe that the thicker the paper, the more exclusive the effect. This is a myth. Paper that is too stiff can make a catalog difficult to open and a brochure unwieldy. What’s more, high grammages do not always work well with specific bookbinding techniques.
Remember: the goal is user comfort, not a show of strength. If you want to achieve a “premium” effect, it is also worth considering the texture of the paper, the type of finish, and the finishing techniques (e.g., varnishing or hot stamping).
4. Paper weight affects printing and shipping costs
Higher grammage means:
- more paper used for printing,
- greater weight of finished materials,
- higher transport costs.
This is particularly important for large print runs or international shipments. An example? 5,000 A5 flyers on 350 g/m² paper can cost up to several hundred zlotys more (including transport) than the same design on 170 g/m² paper.
5. Not all paper has the same density at the same weight.
This is one of those moments that can surprise even people who have printed something before. A customer orders a flyer on 170 g paper because “they’ve had it before” – and the result turns out to be completely different. Why?
Because weight is not everything. How we perceive paper is also influenced by its texture, finish, and composition. An example? 170 gsm matte coated paper will look and behave differently than uncoated Munken Lynx paper of the same weight. The former is slippery and smooth, while the latter is natural and feels “softer.” Even the shade of white can change the perception of the entire project.
Therefore, before placing an order, it is worth asking for samples or at least seeing photos of similar projects. This can really save you disappointment.
6. Paper weight affects how your brand is perceived
Ultimately, paper weight is not just a technical aspect. It is also a communication tool. High-quality, well-chosen paper can emphasize the value of your product, while paper that is too thin can unknowingly lower its perceived quality. Are you designing a catalog, invitation, or menu? Well-chosen paper weight is a step toward building a consistent brand image.
Summary
Paper weight is just a number, but behind it lie decisions that affect the appearance, durability, and cost of your project. If you are unsure which paper to choose, consult our printing house. We will be happy to advise you on something that not only looks good but also suits your needs.