TL;DR: Paper weight affects the look, feel, and durability of your prints. Learn what “gsm” means, how to choose the right weight for your art or photos, and which paper types best suit your project goals.
What Is Printer Paper Weight?
Paper weight refers to how much a sheet of paper weighs per square meter, measured in grams per square meter (gsm). The higher the gsm, the thicker and sturdier the paper. For example, 80gsm resembles standard copy paper, while 300gsm feels more like cardstock or premium fine art paper.
Understanding gsm helps you choose the right material for your desired quality — from flexible posters to rigid gallery prints.
Does Paper Weight Affect Print Quality?
Paper weight doesn’t directly impact the color or resolution of your print, but it does affect its feel, structure, and longevity. Heavier paper weights are more resistant to wear, bending, and fading over time. However, always make sure your printer can handle the chosen gsm — using paper that’s too thick for your printer may cause feed issues or ink inconsistency.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Paper Weight
- Durability: Think about how long you want the print to last. Heavier paper is ideal for art meant for sale or display, while lighter options are great for temporary promotions or prints you plan to roll or ship.
- Finish Options: Certain textures and finishes, like matte, luster, or metallic, are only available at specific weights. Heavier stocks often support premium textures and coatings for a professional look.
- Budget: Heavier paper costs more, but it can eliminate the need for framing or lamination. Match the paper to your project goals and pricing strategy.
For help comparing finishes and textures, read our post on choosing the best paper for photo prints.
Best Paper Weights for Digital Art Prints
The ideal weight for digital art depends on how you plan to use and display your prints. Here’s a quick guide:
Posters: 110gsm to 140gsm
Poster paper is slightly thicker than standard printer stock. It’s flexible, affordable, and perfect for large-scale runs or promotional pieces that don’t require heavy durability.
Art Prints: 150gsm to 200gsm
This range works well for everyday art prints. It offers a sturdier feel without being too rigid — ideal for artists selling prints online or at art markets.
High-End Fine Art Prints: 300gsm and Above
For gallery-quality or collectible artwork, 300gsm paper delivers a luxurious weight and texture similar to original artwork. Many high-end papers in this range are textured to simulate canvas and hold pigment inks beautifully.
Best Paper Weights for Original Art Scans
When printing from high-resolution scans of your original artwork, choose heavier paper weights (200gsm–350gsm) for archival quality and tactile depth. This replicates the presence of your original piece and gives buyers a premium experience.
For help preparing your scans for printing, see our guide on how to photograph your artwork for reproduction.
Best Photo Paper Weights
Photo paper comes in a variety of weights and finishes. The right choice depends on how you’ll use the image — from handouts to framed heirlooms:
Brochures, Flyers, Pamphlets: 150gsm to 200gsm
Lightweight photo paper is best for temporary materials or glossy handouts that don’t need to last long. It’s easy to handle and affordable for bulk prints.
Family Photos, Digital Artwork, Greeting Cards: 200gsm to 300gsm
Midweight photo paper offers good structure and longevity without the stiffness of fine art papers. It’s perfect for prints meant to be displayed or gifted.
Fine Art Photography or Oversized Prints: 300gsm and Above
Heavy photo paper offers museum-grade durability, exceptional detail, and a premium hand feel. This weight is ideal for limited-edition photography and professional displays.
Still Not Sure Which Paper Weight to Choose?
With so many premium paper types available, it can be challenging to select the perfect one for your project. Our team at The Stackhouse can help you find the ideal combination of finish, thickness, and texture for your art or photography prints.
Need expert advice? Contact us today to discuss your project or request a free media sample set to compare paper weig
