When buying a print, the design is only half the story. The other half—the part that determines its feel, durability, and visual impact—is the paper. But how can you tell the difference between a quality print and an average one? Two terms are key: paper weight (GSM) and finish.
What is Paper Weight (GSM)?
GSM stands for "Grams per Square Meter." It's simply a unit of measurement for the weight of the paper, which gives us a direct indication of its thickness and sturdiness. The higher the GSM value, the heavier and thicker the paper will be.
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90-120 GSM: Standard office printer paper. It's light and flexible.
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170-200 GSM: Considered the ideal weight for quality posters. It's thick enough to be durable and have a premium feel, without being as rigid as cardstock.
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250+ GSM: High-end paper, often used for business cards, invitations, and fine-art prints. It's very thick, luxurious, and built to last.
The Finish: Glossy, Semi-Gloss, or Matte?
The finish refers to the paper's surface texture and how it interacts with light and ink.
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Glossy Paper: Has a very shiny, reflective surface. It makes colors pop, appearing extremely vibrant and deep. It's perfect for photographs and designs with intense colors but can create glare under direct light.
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Matte Paper: Has no shiny coating. Its surface is smooth and non-reflective, which makes it ideal for prints with a lot of text or for artistic designs intended for gallery display, as it won't produce glare. Colors appear softer and more subdued.
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Semi-Gloss Paper (or Satin/Lustre): This is the perfect balance between the two. It has a slight sheen that enriches colors without the distracting reflections of a full gloss finish. It's an extremely versatile and popular choice for high-quality posters because it combines color vibrancy with excellent readability.
Next time you choose a print, pay attention to these details. The combination of a good paper weight and the right finish can elevate a simple poster into a piece of art to be treasured.