It can be a challenge to identify paper types, thickness and sizes. We hope this article will be very helpful to anyone trying to choose the right paper for the right job.
Recycled paper
The name itself indicates that this type of paper is made from re-used paper products. It can be used for most documents including reports, memo paper and forms. As the world moves toward reducing environmental impact, this could be one of the ideal solutions.
Bond paper
Bond paper is stronger and more durable than the usual plain paper since it’s made mostly from mostly made up of rag pulp instead of low-grade wood pulp. Most people prefer this type of paper for typed reports, envelopes and letterheads.
Watermarked paper
An impression is impressed into the paper using a wire pattern to create its desired effect. This type of paper is commonly used as a security feature for important documents, for instance exam certificates
Glossy paper
The high shine of gloss paper makes it a perfect choice for flyers and brochures. The ink dries well and does not rub off hence there is no need for a seal varnish.
Matt paper
Matt paper is not shiny, it is coated with a matt finish to produce a paper that isn’t glossy in order to prevent glare. This type of paper is perfect for reports, leaflets and flyers.
Silk coated paper
Silk coated paper has a smooth touch but without the shine of glossy paper. This type of paper is ideal for such things as magazines, books and catalogues.
Uncoated paper
Uncoated paper has no coating therefore, it can easily absorb ink. Generally found in most office printers it can be used by both printer and pen, used for forms, letterheads and memo paper.
Paper sizes
| Size | Millimeters | Inches |
| A0 | 841 x 1189 mm | 33.1 x 46.8 in |
| A1 | 594 x 841 mm | 23.4 x 33.1 in |
| A2 | 420 x 594 mm | 16.5 x 23.4 in |
| A3 | 297 x 420 mm | 11.7 x 16.5 in |
| A4 | 210 x 297 mm | 8.3 x 11.7 in |
| A5 | 148 x 210 mm | 5.8 x 8.3 in |
| A6 | 105 x 148 mm | 4.1 5.8 in |
| A7 | 74 x 105 mm | 2.9 x 4.1 in |
| A8 | 52 x 74 mm | 2.0 x 2.9 in |
| A9 | 37 x 52 mm | 1.5 x 2.0 in |
| A10 | 26 x 37 mm | 1.0 x 1.5 in |
Paper weights
| Paper weight | Examples |
| 35-55 gsm | Most newspapers |
| 90 gsm | Mid-market magazine inner pages |
| 130-250 gsm | A good quality promotional poster |
| 180-250 gsm | Mid-market magazine cover |
| 350 gsm | Most reasonable quality business cards |
For common business applications like printing and photocopying paper the weights range between 75gsm and 100gsm whereas photo paper can go up to 280 gsm in weight
What is GSM?
GSM stands for ‘Grams per Square Meter’. A reference sheet of specified paper is cut to one square meter in size for this standard. The mass calculation is determined from the square meter sheet irrespective of how long or wide the paper might be making it possible for buyers and suppliers to know exactly the quality of paper they want.
iGombs 
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