The Accomplice Print Guide To GSM Paper Stocks

The Accomplice Print Guide to GSM Paper Stocks

Choosing the right paper stock is vital for achieving the best outcome in your printing projects. Whether you're designing marketing materials, business essentials, or promotional items, selecting the appropriate GSM is key to delivering the right message and strengthening your brand identity.

This helpful guide from Accomplice Print will explain what GSM is, explore the distinctions between paper and card stock, and showcase the variety of GSM paper options we offer.

Demystifying GSM

GSM stands for Grams per Square Meter. It's a measurement that indicates the weight and thickness of paper. In simpler terms, it tells us how dense and substantial a sheet of paper is. As the GSM value increases, so does the thickness and weight of the paper. Selecting the ideal GSM can significantly enhance the look, feel, and durability of your printed materials.

Paper vs. Card Stock: Making the Right Choice

You'll need to decide between paper and card stock for your project.

Paper stocks, ranging from 80gsm to 240gsm, are perfect for everyday printing needs like flyers, brochures, and letterheads. On the other hand, card stocks, starting from 250gsm and above, provide a sturdier and more durable option, ideal for business cards, wedding invitations, and postcards. The heaviest paper stock still offers some flexibility, while card stock becomes more rigid as the GSM increases, providing a vast array of options to meet your specific printing needs.

Accomplice Print boasts the most luxurious cardstock at a whopping 920gsm, available for our premium business cards. Two card pieces sandwich a coloured sheet of paper, creating a luxuriously weighted design that can be customised to perfectly match your company's branding.

Unveiling Our Paper Stock Range

Accomplice Print can source a comprehensive selection of GSM paper stocks to cater to the diverse printing needs of every project. Whether you require lightweight paper for large-scale printing projects or heavyweight stock for top-tier branding materials, we have the perfect paper stock for you.

Let's delve into our GSM paper options, exploring everything from our lightest to thickest stock:

• 100 to 120gsm

This GSM paper range is well-known for being lightweight and versatile, striking the perfect balance between affordability and quality. It is frequently utilised in personal printers (usually 60-120gsm) as well as for large-scale printing tasks like leaflets, newspapers, and promotional materials, making it a great option for businesses looking for budget-friendly solutions without sacrificing quality.

Its smooth texture and moderate thickness allow for exceptional writability, ensuring that your printed content looks sharp and professional while still being easy to write on. For a touch of luxury with this lighter GSM choice, you may want to opt for coated paper finishes such as silk or matte, which elevate the visual attractiveness of your designs with a hint of elegance.

• 130gsm to 170gsm

Offering increased thickness for enhanced durability while maintaining a manageable weight, this GSM range is a popular choice. Commonly used for items requiring a bit more substance, such as posters, flyers, and event programs, this paper stock is ideal for projects that demand durability and lightness.

The slightly thicker composition lends a substantial feel to printed materials, especially high-end colour printing which is reproduced crisply on the thicker paper stock for maximum impact. This paper's smooth finish adds to its tactile appeal, making it a pleasure to handle for personal or professional projects. Unlike heavier GSM paper stocks, it's also light enough to be easily hung with blu-tac or other adhesives, making this range particularly popular with artists and designers.

• 180gsm to 210gsm

This medium-weight paper GSM range is a staple in marketing materials. Often used for brochures and product catalogues, 180gsm to 210gsm paper stock elevates your brand's image and leaves a lasting impression on your target audience.

Ink adheres smoothly to its surface, resulting in vibrant and sharp images that capture your audience's attention. The paper's substantial feel adds a sense of luxury to any project, while its smooth texture enhances readability. This thicker paper stock is also popular with artists and crafters due to the paper's ability to hold embossing and avoid warping when used with paint.

• 220gsm to 240gsm

Transitioning into the heaviest paper stock category, this medium-weight GSM range offers a substantial feel for a touch of quality and added professionalism. Ideal for cards, menus, invitations, and any other project that requires a touch of elegance, its versatility ensures that your printed materials not only look impressive but also convey your message with clarity and impact.

The paper's thicker composition provides a reassuring weight in the hand, conveying a sense of premium craftsmanship. Its smooth surface makes it a pleasure to interact with, while printed designs look crisp and clear.