Guides / Paper Size & Weight

Paper size & weight.

Why we quote in gsm

U.S. paper weight is sold by pound (#), but the pound scale differs by paper category — 80# text and 80# cover are not the same thickness. GSM (grams per square meter) doesn't have that ambiguity, so every spec on this site uses it as the primary unit.

Typical ranges

  • Interior text stock: 90–130gsm.
  • Cover stock: 200–300gsm.
  • Premium or hardcover board: 270gsm+.

Trim sizes

Common trim sizes include 8.5 x 11", 8.375 x 10.875", 6 x 9", and 5.5 x 8.5", though custom sizes are quoted within the size limits for each binding type.

Need to convert between units? Use the paper weight converter.