In our digital age, where screens dominate our lives, it's easy to forget the significance of paper. But paper remains an essential part of our daily existence, from the pages of your favourite novel to the documents you handle at work. Whether you're a student, a professional, an artist, or simply someone who appreciates the tactile experience of paper, understanding the different types and thicknesses available can greatly enhance your interactions with this timeless material.

The Basics: Understanding Paper Thickness

Paper thickness is often referred to as "weight," which can be misleading. The weight of paper is not its literal heaviness but rather a measure of its thickness. The most common unit for measuring paper weight is "grams per square metre" (gsm). The higher the gsm, the thicker and sturdier the paper.

Thin Paper (Less than 80 gsm): Thin paper is often used for everyday tasks like printing documents, but it's also commonly found in items like newspapers and magazines. It's lightweight and flexible, making it easy to handle, but it's not ideal for projects that require durability.

Standard Paper (80-120 gsm): This is the type of paper you're likely to encounter in most offices and schools. It strikes a balance between being lightweight enough for easy handling and sturdy enough to withstand some wear and tear.

Cardstock (120-200+ gsm): Cardstock is a thicker and more rigid type of paper. It's commonly used for business cards, greeting cards, invitations, and other projects where a heavier weight is desired. The higher end of the gsm range can resemble thin cardboard.

Diving Deeper: Different Types of Paper

Beyond thickness, the type of paper you choose also plays a crucial role in its suitability for various tasks. Here are some common types of paper:

Copier Paper: This is your standard printer paper. It's suitable for everyday printing and writing tasks. It's relatively smooth and doesn't bleed ink.

Glossy Paper: Glossy paper has a shiny, reflective surface. It's commonly used for printing photos and promotional materials because it enhances colour vibrancy and provides a professional look.

Matte Paper: Unlike glossy paper, matte paper has a non-reflective surface. It's a great choice for projects where you want a more subdued and elegant finish. It's often used for art prints and high-quality brochures.

Textured Paper: Textured paper adds a tactile element to your projects. It comes in various textures like linen, felt, or canvas, and is commonly used for stationery, wedding invitations, and artistic purposes.

Newsprint: As the name suggests, newsprint is the type of paper used in newspapers. It's affordable and lightweight, but it tends to yellow and become brittle over time.

Watercolour Paper: This heavyweight paper is designed to handle water-based mediums like watercolours. It has a textured surface that helps the paint adhere effectively.

Tracing Paper: Tracing paper is translucent and thin, making it ideal for tracing images or transferring drawings. It's also used in architectural and engineering work.

Choosing the Right Paper for Your Project

Selecting the right paper type and thickness involves considering the intended use of the paper. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Function: What is the purpose of the paper? Is it for printing, writing, drawing, or something else entirely?

Medium: If you're using any type of medium like ink, markers, or paint, consider the paper's ability to handle that medium without bleeding or warping.

Durability: Will the paper be subject to a lot of handling? Thicker paper is more durable and less likely to crease or tear.

Aesthetics: The visual and tactile aspects matter. Consider how the paper's finish and texture will contribute to the overall look and feel of your project.

Longevity: If your project needs to stand the test of time, consider the paper's archival quality. Acid-free and lignin-free papers are less likely to deteriorate over time.

In conclusion, the world of paper is rich and diverse, offering a wide range of options to suit every creative and practical need. Understanding the different types and thicknesses available can help you make informed choices that elevate your projects and ensure they're as impressive and long-lasting as possible. So, the next time you're faced with a paper choice, take a moment to consider the possibilities it holds and take a look at Ryman Business for their large range.