Confused about how American paper weights correspond to gsm paper weights used in the rest of the world. Here is a gsm paper weight chart which shows you the gsm weights of the most common papers.
*GSM means gram per square meter.
GSM Paper Weight Chart
1) 20lb Bond/Writing/Ledger = 75 gsm
2) 24lb Bond/Writing/Ledger = 90 gsm
3) 28lb Bond/Writing/Ledger = 105 gsm
4) 32lb Bond/Writing/Ledger = 120 gsm
5) 50lb Book/Text/Offset = 75 gsm
6) 60lb Book/Text/Offset = 90 gsm
7) 70lb Book/Text/Offset = 105 gsm
8) 80lb Book/Text/Offset = 120 gsm
9) 100lb Text = 150 gsm
10) 67lb Bristol = 145 gsm
11) 90lb Index = 165 gsm
12) 110lb Index = 200 gsm
13) 140lb Index = 255 gsm
14) 65lb Cover = 175 gsm
15) 80lb Cover = 215 gsm
16) 100lb Cover = 275 gsm
17) 130lb Cover = 350 gsm
As you can see, there are pairs of items that have the same weight on this list:
1 and 5 are the same (example: 20lb Bond/Writing/Ledger and 50lb Book/Text/Offset)
2 and 6 are the same
3 and 7 are the same
4 and 8 are the same
Others are similar weight:
10 and 9 are similar (example: 100lb Text and 67lb Bristol)
11 and 14 are similar weight
12 and 15 are similar weight
13 and 16 are a somewhat similar
Bond, Writing, Ledger, Offset, Bristol and Index stocks are all UNCOATED. That means they are porous sheets that will absorb ink. These are often used for letterhead or any type of form that needs to be filled out. This type of sheet is also often used to create a “natural” or “earthy” printed look.
Most book and text weight stocks are COATED sheets. Get more information in this article on coated vs. uncoated sheets.
For more information about this GSM Paper Weight Chart, types of paper, or for help with your print project please give a call or shoot us an email. 818-709-1220 or sales@clearprint.com.
With 34 years of experience we can help guide you in the best direction for your next print project, while keeping costs down. Located in the San Fernando Valley, we serve many areas including Valencia, Santa Clarita, Los Angeles, Simi Valley and now parts of Kern County: Ridgecrest, Inyokern, Trona and others.
