Choosing Paper Weight: When to Use 105g / 157g / 250g / 300g
Paper weight (g/m², gsm) is the weight per square meter — it directly determines hand feel, stiffness and price. It's one of the most-asked questions in online printing.
Quick reference
| Weight | Feel | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 80–100g | Copy-paper thin | Manual inner pages, forms, letterhead |
| 105g | Slightly thicker than copy paper | Budget flyers |
| 157g | Crisp, no show-through | Mainstream flyers, catalog inner pages |
| 250g | Noticeably stiff | Catalog covers, folders, postcards |
| 300g | Card stock | Business cards, table cards, invitations |
Three common scenarios
Flyers: choose 105g for budget, 157g for feel. For double-sided printing use at least 128g to avoid show-through.
Catalogs: the classic combo is a laminated 250g cover + 157g inner pages. For long books (60P+), 128g inner pages keep the weight down.
Business cards: 300g is the floor; add lamination (matte feels more premium) or choose an art paper.
FAQ
Q: Is heavier always better? A: No. Overly thick inner pages in a saddle-stitched booklet won't staple well and spring open; a too-thick envelope won't fold crisply. Choose by use, not by price.
Q: Why do same-weight papers feel different in thickness? A: Different bulk — uncoated woodfree paper is loftier than coated paper, so it feels thicker at the same gsm.
On Linyeah Printing, each product's configurator only lists paper/weight combos that fit that product, with live pricing as you choose.