Which Paper Weight Is Best for Notebooks, Planners, and Journals?

Understanding Paper Weight: GSM vs. lb

What is GSM (Grams per Square Meter)?

GSM means Grams per Square Meter. It tells you how heavy paper is, not how thick. More GSM means heavier, thicker paper. For example, regular printer paper is about 80 GSM, but fancy art paper can be 200 GSM or more. It’s a simple way to know how sturdy paper feels!

U.S. Basis Weight (lb) Explained

In the U.S., paper gets a “pound” label, like 20 lb or 32 lb. This can be tricky because it changes for different paper types. GSM is easier since it’s the same everywhere. That’s why Labon Stationery and other big companies use GSM to keep things clear.

Why Paper Weight Matters for Writing and Planning

Paper weight changes how paper works with pens. It stops ink from leaking or showing through. It also makes paper feel cheap or fancy. For Labon Stationery, picking the right GSM makes sure their notebooks are perfect for writing diaries, planning days, or taking work notes. The right paper makes everything better!

Recommended Paper Weights for Different Uses

70–90 GSM: Standard Writing and Office Use

This is super common for printer paper or cheap notebooks. It’s light and cheap, but ink might leak through, especially with fountain pens or markers. It’s okay for quick notes but not the best for fancy stuff.

100–120 GSM: Everyday Journals and Planners

This is the best spot for most notebooks! 100–120 GSM feels smooth, isn’t too thick, and stops ink from showing through. Lots of Labon Stationery notebooks use this paper weight for awesome quality without being bulky. It’s great for daily planners or journals.

120–160 GSM: Premium Journals and Artistic Use

Heavier paper, like 120–160 GSM, feels super nice and fancy. It’s perfect for people who love a cool touch or use lots of ink types. This paper weight is awesome for artsy journals, bullet journals, or mixed media stuff. Labon makes these for special writing or drawing.

160+ GSM: Specialty Applications

Super thick paper, like 160+ GSM, is for sketchbooks, watercolor journals, or special inserts. For brands wanting a wow-factor gift, like a fancy work notebook, Labon Stationery offers custom thick paper. It’s tough and feels like a treat!

Factors to Consider When Choosing Paper Weight

Ink Compatibility and Bleed-Through

Pens act differently on paper. Thin GSM soaks up ink and might let it leak or show through. Labon Stationery tests their papers with all kinds of pens to make sure they work great and keep ink where it belongs.

Paper Texture and Finish

How paper feels—smooth, rough, or shiny—changes how writing goes. Labon Stationery has smooth, matte, or special textures in lots of GSM choices. You can pick what feels best for your pen!

Binding and Notebook Thickness

Thicker paper means fewer pages in a notebook. Labon Stationery helps balance paper weight with how big the notebook is and how it’s held together. This is super important for planners or journals with tons of pages.

Portability and Page Count

Heavy GSM makes notebooks heavier. If you want a light planner for travel, Labon Stationery can pick the right layout and paper to keep it easy to carry. You get a cool notebook without too much weight!

Labon Stationery’s Custom Paper Solutions

With over 20 years of making notebooks and fans in 52 countries, Labon Stationery makes paper just for you. Want FSC-certified eco paper, stone paper, or watercolor sheets? They’ve got it! Labon works with cool brands like Archer & Olive to make fancy journals with awesome textures and paper weights. From OEM to ODM, they help pick the perfect GSM for your project, so it writes great and looks amazing.

More About Paper Weight in Notebooks

Paper weight is like the secret sauce for awesome notebooks! It makes writing smooth, keeps ink neat, and makes your journal or planner feel special. Labon Stationery knows how to pick the right GSM for school, work, or art. Whether you’re scribbling quick notes or painting a masterpiece, they’ve got a paper that’s just right.

Fun Facts About Paper Weight

Did you know paper weight can change how your pen feels? Labon Stationery’s 120 GSM paper is super popular because it’s tough but not too heavy. Some 160 GSM papers are so thick, they’re like tiny canvases for art! Plus, Labon can make blue or pink paper for fun journals. Cool, right?

Why Labon Stationery Is the Best

Labon Stationery doesn’t just make notebooks—they make the coolest ones! Their paper weights are perfect for any job, from quick notes to big art. They use FSC-certified paper for the planet and follow strict rules to make sure every page is awesome. With Labon, you get notebooks that feel great, look fancy, and work for any need.

Conclusion

The best paper weight depends on what you need: 100–120 GSM is great for everyday writing, while 160+ GSM is awesome for art or heavy ink. Labon Stationery gives expert help and custom picks to get it just right. With tough quality checks and fast 5–7 day sample delivery, they make top-notch notebooks. Every bit, from paper weight to cover, is made with care. Whether for cool planners or work gifts, Labon Stationery brings the best, page after page.

FAQs

Q1: Is 120 GSM paper good for fountain pens?
A: Yes! 120 GSM paper usually stops ink from leaking or spreading, so it’s great for fountain pens.

Q2: What’s the most popular GSM for premium notebooks?
A: 100–120 GSM is super common for fancy notebooks. It’s tough and smooth, perfect for writing.

Q3: Can I order custom GSM paper with Labon Stationery?
A: Totally! Labon Stationery loves OEM and ODM projects. They can make paper weight, type, or finish just how you want.