Hey, friends! Today, we’re talking about something super important when it comes to your printing projects – and that is cardstock weights! Now, I know this may sound like a snoozefest, but trust me – if you’ve ever set out to print something on heavier cardstock and got confused by the difference between GSM and LBS, I’ve got you covered! By the end of this video, you’ll feel way more confident about buying paper for your next creative project after reading, Confused by Cardstock Weight? GSM vs. LBS Explained!
Confused by Cardstock Weight? GSM vs. LBS Explained!
You’ll often see paper weights measured in two main systems: LBS and GSM. So what in the heck is the difference? Well, the answer comes down to geography! LBS (pounds) is the measurement most commonly used in the United States and Canada. It refers to the weight of 500 sheets of a specific size, usually 20×26 inches. And this system really doesn’t make much sense because it doesn’t directly measure the paper thickness. It’s merely based on the total weight of a stack of papers in that arbitrary size.
On the other hand, GSM (grams per square meter) meaning, it measures how much one square meter of paper weighs in grams. is the international standard for paper weight, and it’s used almost everywhere else in the world – probably because it makes a ton more sense. The higher the number, the thicker and heavier the paper.
Should You Focus on GSM or LBS?
As you can tell, GSM is much more straight forward, That’s why it’s often better to focus on GSM when you’re working with thicker paper.
Now, you’re probably wondering, when you’re out shopping for cardstock, should you focus on GSM or LBS? Well, it really all depends on what your printer tells it can support. Some printers can only handle certain weights of cardstock, especially when you’re dealing with those heavier papers. So, knowing what weight of cardstock your printer will support is your number one priority. I have another video that tells you exactly how to find out what cardstock your printer can support on my channel so make sure to check that out.
Heavy Cardstock Paper: GSM to LBS Conversion Cheat Sheet
But basically, if your printer tells you it can only support up to 72 lbs (pounds), then you probably want to focus on LBS and not GSM. But because some paper chooses not to show you both of the measurements, I put this in a table for you can screenshot and take to the store with you. (See below.)
What Weight Cardstock Should You Use for Your Project?
If you’re confused by Cardstock Weight, and are looking to print greeting cards, flyers, and lightweight invitations, you might want to focus on lightweight cardstock at 65-80 lbs or 176-216 GSM.
If you’re looking for a Medium weight cardstock for things like business cards, posters, and a bit heavier invitations you’ll want to look for 100 lbs or 270 GSM.
Lastly, if you’re looking for a Heavyweight cardstock that’s going to be 110-130 lbs or 300-350 GSM.
I hope this clears up the very boring yet important topic of paper weight. I hope it makes your next trip to the craft store much more straight forward and relaxed. Thanks so much for watching, and if you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments. Happy crafting!
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