Paper & Card Stock
Paper is a versatile material produced from fibers derived from wood, rags, grasses, or other plant and vegetable sources. It's utilized in various printing and packaging applications, including postcards, catalogs, bags, paper tubes, corrugated boxes, and folding cartons.
Grades
While there's no universal industry standard differentiating each paper grade, general conventions exist. Manufacturers may follow different practices, so it's best to describe the end product and use case to ensure desired quality.
In the US, paper is measured by pound weight or calipher. Pound weight, or basis weight, is the weight in pounds per ream (500 sheets) of the paper with a given size, which differs between classification of paper (table below). Calipher (thickness) of the paper is expressed in points (pt), where a sheet of paper with a thickness of 0.010" would be 10 pt.
In Europe, paper is measured in grammage (gms) and caliper is expressed in microns. Paper weight measurement is straight forward: the weight in grams of one sheet of the paper measuring one square meter.
| Paper Grade | Basis Size |
|---|---|
| Utility Paper & Newsprint | 24" x 36" |
| Text, Offset & Book Paper | 25" x 38" |
| Writing, Ledger & Bond Paper | 17" x 22" |
| Cover Stock | 20" x 26" |
| Bristol Paper | 22.5" x 28.5" |
| Index Paper | 25.5" x 30.5" |
Despite the confusing measurements, paper weight is important to understand because it plays a key role in quality, durability, and visual impression. To help compare apples to apples, below are paper grades for common use cases. Keep in mind these are approximate weights and thickness, different types of paper from different mills slightly vary.
| Grade | Weight | Thickness (pt) | Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|
| Utility Paper | 10# 17gms | 1 | Tissue Paper |
| 20# 32gms | 2 | Void Fill | |
| 30# 49gms | 3 | Newspaper, Bible Paper | |
| 40# 68gms | 4 | Kraft / Butcher Paper | |
| Text Paper | 50# 75gsm | 3.8 | Copy Paper, Novels |
| 60# 90gsm | 4.7 | Paper Labels | |
| 70# 105gsm | 5.8 | Comic Books, Letterhead, Resumes, Stationery | |
| 80# 120gsm | 6 | Magazines | |
| 100# 148gsm | 7.2 | Children's Books, Art Books, Brochures | |
| Card Stock | 65# 176gsm | 8 | Tickets |
| 90# 245gsm | 10 | Business Cards, Postcards, Invitations | |
| Cover Stock | 100# 270gsm | 11 | Catalog Covers |
| 110# 297gsm | 13 | Paperback Covers, Graphic Novels | |
| 130# 351gsm | 16 | Heavier Trade Catalogs |
Common Types
Kraft Paper
Kraft paper is a multipurpose durable paper made from wood pulp; available in natural and bleached white colors and various weights. It is a STRONG paper! Usage ranges from mailers, void fill, pressure sensitive labels, tapes, to corrugated packaging. It is not naturally water resistant; a coating or lamination must be applied. Up to 90% recycled content available, and material is easily curbside recyclable with high recycling rate.
Linen Paper
Linen paper is a premium quality paper made from pure linen or from wood pulp that produces a similar paper finish. It has a unique weave texture.
Coated Paper
Paper treated with a surface coating, typically clay, to improve smoothness, opacity, and printability. Available in gloss, matte, and silk finishes. Common in brochures, product catalogs, and high-quality prints. It will usually have the designation CS1 or CS2 for coating one or both sides.
Estate Paper
A premium, uncoated paper known for its soft, cottony texture and tactile richness. Estate paper is often used in high-end wine labels and luxury packaging because of its ability to hold deep, saturated ink and embossing. It exudes understated elegance and is a favorite for brands aiming for an artisanal or heritage feel.
Laid Paper
A classic textured paper featuring fine parallel lines (known as “chain lines”) created during the papermaking process. These lines mimic traditional handmade paper and give it a refined, old-world character. Commonly used for certificates, fine stationery, and upscale packaging that emphasizes tradition and craftsmanship.