Understanding GSM & Thickness: A Guide for Plotter Paper Buyers

SATVA BY JR
Apr 7
2 min read

When purchasing paper for industrial or professional use, understanding the differences in GSM (grams per square meter) and thickness is essential. For businesses dealing with plotter paper, pattern paper, and maplitho paper, these factors significantly impact performance and usability. Let’s break down what GSM and thickness mean and how they apply to different paper types.

What is GSM in Paper?

GSM (grams per square meter) is a measurement of paper weight, indicating how much a square meter of the paper weighs. A higher GSM means a denser, heavier, and often thicker paper, while a lower GSM indicates a lighter and thinner sheet. GSM affects paper durability, opacity, and how it interacts with printing, plotting, or drawing instruments.

Thickness vs. GSM

While GSM measures weight, thickness refers to the actual physical measurement of the paper’s depth, typically in microns. Two papers with the same GSM may have different thicknesses depending on the manufacturing process and the type of fiber used.

Comparing GSM & Thickness in Different Paper Types

1. Plotter Paper

Used in garment manufacturing, architectural drawings, and engineering designs, plotter paper needs to be lightweight and smooth for accurate plotting and cutting.

Common GSM Range: 40-90 GSM
Thickness: 50-120 microns
Characteristics: Smooth texture, good printability.

2. Pattern Paper

Pattern paper is widely used in the apparel industry for creating garment patterns. It must be durable yet flexible for precise pattern cutting and tracing.

Common GSM Range: 70-150 GSM
Thickness: 80-200 microns
Characteristics: High tear resistance, firm structure, and better opacity for visibility of traced markings.

3. Maplitho Paper

This paper is used for high-quality printing in technical drawings, documentation, and publishing. It balances smoothness and durability for professional applications.

Common GSM Range: 60-120 GSM
Thickness: 70-160 microns
Characteristics: Bright white surface, smooth finish, and excellent ink absorption.

Choosing the Right Paper for Your Needs

When selecting paper, consider:

Usage: Printing, tracing, plotting, or manual pattern creation.
Durability Requirements: Thicker and higher GSM papers last longer but may not be ideal for all applications.
Printing Compatibility: Ensure the GSM and thickness suit your printer or plotter.

Conclusion

Understanding GSM and thickness helps in making informed decisions when purchasing paper for professional use. At SATVA by JR, we provide high-quality plotter, pattern, and maplitho paper tailored to industry needs. Explore our collection to find the perfect paper for your requirements.

For inquiries and bulk orders, visit satvajr.com.