Do you know that the thickness of paper is measured in GSM (grams per square meter)? Talking about paper might sound futile but that is only because we know paper, we use it on a daily basis and we like to think that we know everything about paper. Be it morning newspaper, magazines, work documents, educational or legal docs, paper is pretty much part of our daily lives.
However, there are a lot of things you might not know about paper and paper sheets.
Paper is a flexible substance made mostly from wood pulp, which is often generated from softwood coniferous (cone-like) plants like pine trees. As paper exists in various forms, thickness, textures, and sizes, choosing the appropriate one for your job or project may be a difficult task. Every paper sheet has its purpose and use and you must be aware of their types and properties in order to choose the right one. Read this blog to get more insights into paper sheets and they are categorized.
Types of Paper Sheets
There are various types of paper used for various needs, hence the quality varies. By quality, I mean thickness, whiteness, coating, and finish of the paper.
Here are some of the popular types of papers that are widely used in various needs:
Printing Paper
Also known as offset paper or printing paper. It is one of the most widely used papers and is produced in large quantities. In general, these sheets are created with a modest quantity of cellulose and a lot of filler, which makes printing easier, which is their major purpose. The most common paper thickness is 70 to 90 GSM (grams per meter), however, it may go up to 100 GSM. Manufacturers strive for maximum whiteness in this material, which is usually achieved through the use of fillers. However, it is just strong enough to run through the printer or be folded because it is used for applications that do not require a lot of handling.
Bond Paper
Bond paper is a durable, high-quality paper known for its strength and excellent printability. It is typically smooth and lightweight. Bond paper is typically used for letterheads, business forms, and stationery due to its professional appearance and ability to hold ink well.
Coated paper
Art paper, also known as coated paper, has a glossy finish and is often used for high-quality printing. The filler that causes the whiteness and finish in art paper is linked to the fiber by a binding agent, which can be synthetic or natural, and coated paper is made with more short than long fiber (normally calcium carbonate). A coated layer is placed on the cellulose, resulting in improved printing and resolution (on account of the higher screens). This is because the ink lingers on the surface, resulting in a shinier and more colorful post-printing finish.
Coated paper or Art papers are an ideal choice for printing projects that require vibrant colors and sharp images, such as magazines, catalogs, and advertising materials.
Newspaper
Newspapers are printed on newsprint paper, as the name indicates. For obvious reasons, its life cycle is short, usually one day. Because the paper does not need to be white, the material quality does not need to be good, and the paper is made with mechanical pulp including residue. It is rarely colored, and when it is, the color is applied using mass-dying techniques.
Tissue Paper
Tissue paper is lightweight, translucent, and available in a wide range of colors. This paper material is both soft and absorbent. Water resistance varies depending on the subtype, paper used to make handkerchiefs or napkins must be able to tolerate liquids to avoid coming apart when used, whereas napkin paper must dissolve quickly. Different treatments are used during the production process to achieve this, and they are usually made using virgin fiber.
Tissue papers are available in single-ply, double-ply, triple-ply, and quadruple-ply configurations. Tissue papers are commonly used for gift wrapping, crafts, and as protective packaging for delicate items, apart from the most obvious use as the name suggests, for wiping tears and face.
Cardboard
Cardboard is a paper-based product, albeit due to its thickness, this is not usually obvious. It's created from raw, unbleached wood pulp, so it retains its natural brown color. It is usually composed of recyclable material because finish is not a consideration. Cardboard is made up of three layers of paper: two smooth exterior layers and a corrugated inner layer that gives the material its strength. In terms of mechanical qualities, the corrugated layer strengthens the material, but it is not suited for printing since it may be crushed depending on the pressure used.
Fine Art Paper
Depending on the creative method, fine arts paper must have distinct technical and practical features. This substance was created as a less expensive alternative to canvases; in reality, some of these papers have outstanding qualities and may last almost a century without turning yellow.
Cardstock
Cardstock is a thick, heavy paper that is stiffer and more durable than standard writing or printing paper. These are perfect for crafting, scrapbooking, and card making, and as covers for business cards, invitations, and postcards.
Kraft Paper
Kraft paper is a strong, brown paper made from wood pulp. It is known for its natural, rustic appearance. Kraft papers are mostly used for packaging, wrapping, and crafting due to its strength and eco-friendly qualities.
Features of a Paper Sheet
1.Thickness of the Paper Sheet
The thickness of the paper sheet is measured in grams per square meter (gsm); the higher the GSM, the thicker and heavier the paper.
2. Finish
Paper can have different finishes, such as matte, glossy, or textured, which influence its appearance and printability.
3. Opacity of the Paper Sheet
Opacity refers to the level of transparency of the paper. Higher opacity prevents show-through when printing on both sides.
4. Sizing
Paper sizing affects its absorbency and print quality. Internal sizing prevents ink from spreading, while surface sizing improves ink holdout.
10 Fascinating Facts about Paper Sheets that You Must Know
1.Ancient Origins- Paper sheets have been used for centuries, with the earliest known paper dating back to ancient China around 100 BC. It was initially made from mulberry bark, hemp, and rags.
2. Papyrus- One of the earliest forms of paper, papyrus sheets were made from the pith of the papyrus plant. This material was widely used in ancient Egypt and Greece for writing and artwork.
3. Rice Paper- Originating in China, rice paper sheets are made from the pith of the rice paper plant. They are known for their thin, delicate texture and are often used for calligraphy, artwork, and crafts.
4. Handmade Paper- Handmade paper sheets are crafted using traditional techniques, often involving natural fibers such as cotton, hemp, or silk. This process results in unique textures and appearances, making each sheet one-of-a-kind.
5. Mulberry Paper- Known for its durability and versatility, mulberry paper sheets are made from the bark of the mulberry tree. They are commonly used in traditional Japanese art forms such as origami and Sumi-e painting.
6. Lokta Paper- Originating from Nepal, Lokta paper sheets are handcrafted from the fibrous inner bark of the Daphne plant. This eco-friendly paper is renowned for its strength and resistance to tearing.
7. Marbled Paper- Marbled paper sheets are created using a unique process where paints are floated on a surface of thickened water and then transferred to paper, producing intricate and colorful patterns.
8. Watercolor Paper- Specifically designed for watercolor painting, watercolor paper sheets come in various textures such as hot-pressed, cold-pressed, and rough, each offering different effects for artists to explore.
9. Handmade Deckle-Edged Paper- These sheets are made using a mold and deckle, resulting in a natural, uneven edge that adds a rustic and artisanal charm to the paper.
10. Seed Paper- A sustainable and eco-friendly option, seed paper sheets are embedded with seeds that can be planted after use, allowing the paper to be recycled and bloom into beautiful flowers or herbs.
Finally, Paper Sheets come in a diverse range of types, each with its unique characteristics and uses. Whether it's for printing, packaging, crafting, or artistic endeavors, understanding the specific details of different paper types empowers us to make informed choices for our projects. A paper sheet is not just a paper and next time you reach for a sheet of paper, take a moment to appreciate the depth and versatility of this seemingly simple material. Observe its weight, finish, opacity, etc. for a better understanding of paper sheets.
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