When it comes to printing paper, weight is an important consideration. It not only affects the look and feel of a printed piece, but also impacts cost and postage. In the UK and Europe, paper weight is measured in grams per square meter (gsm) and is standardised by the ISO 536 standard.
A standard sheet of office printer paper is typically around 80gsm/90gsm. This is a lightweight paper that is great for everyday printing needs such as letters, invoices, and documents. However, for more professional or high-end printed materials, a heavier paper may be more appropriate.
One of the most commonly used paper weights for printing is 130gsm. This is a medium-weight paper that is perfect for brochures, flyers, and other marketing materials. It has a thicker, more substantial feel and can give your printed materials a higher-end look.
Another popular weight for printing is 250gsm. This is a heavy-weight paper that is typically used for high end flyers, invitations, and high-end brochures. It has a substantial feel and is often used to give printed materials a luxury or premium look.
For even heavier paper, one can go up to 450gsm, which is commonly used for premium business cards, invitations, and other luxury printed materials. This paper is thick and durable, and gives the printed materials a premium look and feel.
When it comes to envelopes, the weight is usually measured in gsm, but the thickness is measured in microns, as the thickness is more important for the envelopes than the weight. The standard for envelopes is around 100-120 microns.
In conclusion, when choosing paper for printing, it's important to consider the weight of the paper. The weight of the paper will affect the look, feel, and cost of your printed materials. The UK and European standard for paper weight is measured in grams per square meter (gsm) and is standardised by the ISO 536 standard. And for envelopes, the weight is measured in gsm, but the thickness is measured in microns.