A GSM or PT unit is often used to measure printing materials.
How do these unit systems work? What does this mean for your packaging and printing?
It is important to understand the differences between the PT and GSM unit systems. The material you select should reflect the weight and thickness of the paper.
This will impact your printing options and help you determine the right balance between durability and printability.
PT and GSM Printed Packaging and Packaging Materials
There is a difference between PT, which stands for The Point System, and GSM, which stands for Grams per Square Meter.
These units can be used to measure thickness. Materials such as paperboard, cardboard, and other packaging materials can be used, and cartons can be folded. It is also important to consider the weight of the paper, which is measured in reams. A ream equals 500 sheets of uncut paper (in its original, uncut form). You'll often see paper marked as 80 lb or 80#, meaning that one ream weighs 80 pounds.
It's important to understand that a point equals .001 inches, so 10 points means a stock thickness of 0.01 inches.
A metric equivalent of points is GSM, based on the metric system rather than inches. Remember that thicker packaging does not necessarily mean heavier when considering different paper levels. Paper is thicker when its GSM is higher.
How does a printing material's weight get determined?
You are analyzing the material itself. Knowing the GSM weights of common materials is important to determine the thickness of the packaging you need.
GSM Paper Measurements
This newspaper contains 35-55 grams of paper per square meter, which is extremely thin and delicate.
At 90-100 grams per square meter, it is less dense than printer paper but more durable than newspaper.
GSM can deteriorate when exposed continuously to the elements, posters, and bulletins made of 120-140.
A magazine cover with 210-300 GSM will maintain its shape if bent.
It is commonly used for printing invitations, business cards, and retail packaging. The term "card stock" usually refers to it.
GSM and PT Unit Conversion
GSM is the metric version of PT, which calculates thickness between two points.
The GSM system considers the stock weight instead of the PT system. Conversion charts simplify this process, and we can convert between GSM and PT and vice versa if necessary.
Since most of the world uses the metric system, GSM is more common, but we can work with both systems simultaneously.
The best way to compare paper weights and thicknesses
To help make packaging uniform between the two systems, the US version considers This to be Paper's uncut weight (its "basis weight") a ream). For example, Paper marked with 92# is thinner than Paper marked with 230#.
Is it really important to know the weight of Paper (or any other material)?
You probably only think about mailers that arrive in your home a few times a week - until you are suddenly confronted with paper terms like bond, text, book, cover, tag, index, etc. There is something good about the differences between the sizes and paper styles.
Throughout history, humanity has experimented with various creative ideas to make Paper more durable and long-lasting. To make your Packaging stand out, you can use tried-and-true methods immediately.
Is My Product Packaging Affected by These Different Unit Systems?
Based on these factors, analyze the pros and cons following differences between different types of packaging materials.
In addition to its durability, the thickness and weight of your Packaging will also affect its printing and features. A smooth surface makes printing on some packaging materials easier. Others are coarser and rougher, which improves their durability but also affects the ease with which different printing processes can be implemented.
Furthermore, the Packaging must be durable. It must protect its contents while presenting them accurately and in a way that makes them stand out.
Can we have a package that evokes quality while maintaining durability through printing, labeling, and shipping processes? Yes, of course!
Find out which unit system is best for you - GSM or PT.
Choosing It can be overwhelming to choose the right balance between durability, thickness, and "printability" - but that doesn't mean you have to do it on your own.
Luxury Custom Boxes understands that the world of design, printing, and Packaging can be confusing. That's why we're here to guide you through the process from start to finish and help you achieve the perfect outcome.
We pride ourselves on taking the time to understand your vision and goals for your product. Our team has the know-how, expertise, and experience to make your product stand out from the crowd or give it a sophisticated, elegant look that was born for unboxing.
Regardless of your product's packaging design needs, we welcome the opportunity to assist you. Graphic artists can bring your vision to life even if you're unsure what you want. After you've decided on the design, we'll help you choose the packaging material that will protect your product while showcasing it perfectly.
In addition, we can help your product stand out in more than just a visual sense. With the latest printing technology, we offer eye-catching and sensational options. Every step we take, from spot UV printing and foil stamping to soft-touch coating and lamination that protects your product and enhances its value, is done with satisfaction in mind—both yours and your customers.
Are you interested in learning more about our comprehensive packaging design and printing services? Feel free to contact us for a free, no-obligation quote. Please get in touch with us if you have any questions about GSM versus PT in print.
After creating an extraordinary product, it's time to choose equally outstanding custom packaging!
