Paper is never “just a medium.” It is the very first impression your customer gets when they hold a printed piece. From its texture, weight, and visual quality, paper transforms an ordinary leaflet into a communication tool with authority.

The choice of paper weight (gsm) determines the durability and prestige of the print.

An 80gsm sheet is used for everyday purposes, while a 300gsm paper provides a premium feel for catalogues and cards.

Texture and finish – matte, glossy, or velvet – can highlight different emotions.

The color and absorbency of the paper directly affect the fidelity of printed colors.

A high-quality white paper makes colors appear more vibrant, while a more absorbent stock can create a softer result.

Today, eco-friendly options are gaining ground.

Recycled papers, FSC certifications, and sustainable raw materials allow businesses to communicate their environmental responsibility.

Example: A restaurant placemat printed on 90gsm paper may be functional and economical, while a luxury catalogue on 250gsm velvet touch paper conveys prestige and aesthetics.

Paper is an inseparable part of the customer experience. It’s not only about the content, but also about the impression it leaves behind.

At Diatypos, we know how to guide each business to the best choice, ensuring the final result strengthens their brand.

What is GSM?

GSM stands for “grams per square metre,” a measurement used to determine paper weight and density. The higher the GSM, the heavier and sturdier the paper.

A 150gsm flyer feels light and flexible, while a 400gsm board feels like card – rigid and premium.

What are Microns (Mic)?

Microns, abbreviated as “Mic,” measure paper thickness.
1 micron = 0.001mm. So, 250mic = 0.25mm and 1000mic = 1mm.

GSM ≠ Microns.

Two papers with the same GSM can differ in thickness because of pulp type, bulking methods, or processes such as “calendaring” where paper is compressed to reduce thickness without changing weight.

Why GSM & Microns Matter?

Paper weight and thickness directly impact first impressions. A business card on 200gsm feels cheap, while one on 400gsm with 380+mic thickness feels sturdy and premium.

The right choice is branding: it shapes how customers perceive your business.

GSM & Microns Chart – Uncoated Paper

Weight (gsm) | Thickness (mic) | Usage
————-|——————|——————————
70gsm | 90mic | Thin document paper
80gsm | 100mic | Copy paper
100gsm | 125mic | Letterhead
120gsm | 150mic | Premium letterhead
160gsm | 190mic | Heavyweight paper
210gsm | 250mic | Thin board
250gsm | 280mic | Medium board
300gsm | 350mic | Standard board
350gsm | 400mic | Thick postcard board
400gsm | 480mic | Business card board

GSM & Microns Chart – Coated Paper (Gloss, Silk, Matt)

Weight (gsm) | Thickness (mic) | Usage
————-|——————|——————————
90gsm | 78mic | Catalogue paper
115gsm | 98mic | Brochure paper
130gsm | 110mic | Standard leaflet
170gsm | 145mic | Premium leaflet/brochure
200gsm | 175mic | Heavyweight leaflet
250gsm | 215mic | Thin board
300gsm | 275mic | Medium board
350gsm | 325mic | Thick board
400gsm | 380mic | Business card board

Sustainability – Is Lower Paper Thickness More Eco-Friendly?

Yes, lower GSM uses less pulp and reduces environmental impact. But sustainability also involves FSC certification, recycled papers, and sustainable sourcing.

At Diatypos, we balance quality with eco-conscious choices to help brands communicate responsibility.

Case Studies

• Placemat 90gsm: functional, low-cost.
• Wine catalogue 250gsm velvet touch: communicates luxury.
• Business card 400gsm: sturdy, premium, unforgettable.

Paper choice is not a detail – it is branding.

GSM and Microns shape the customer’s tactile and visual experience even before they read the message.
At Diatypos, with 40+ years of expertise, we guide businesses to the right paper choice for quality, sustainability, and brand impact.

Print as Experience

The placemat, the menu, the thank-you card. Small details, almost taken for granted in the daily life of a restaurant or café. Yet, when you look closer, they are powerful branding and storytelling tools for your business. Not just “printed materials,” but part of the customer’s experience. Part of the story you want to tell.

Examples

From Anonymous Print to Personal Signature

An ordinary placemat is… just a sheet of paper on the table. But a well-designed placemat with branding, information, or creativity becomes the first touchpoint with your personality. The same goes for the menu. It doesn’t just show what you offer — it shows how you think.

What the Customer Notices (Without Saying It)

The guest won’t say out loud, “Nice paper on the placemat,” but they will feel that your space has care and attention.

On the other hand, if the menu feels rushed, poorly printed, without consistency… it subconsciously sends the message that the food might be the same.

At Diatypos, we see print not only as a production job but as a branding tool. We provide:

Η Διατύπο βλέπει το έντυπο υλικό όχι μόνο ως εκτυπωτική δουλειά αλλά ως branding εργαλείο. Παρέχουμε:

• Consulting on material selection (durability, style, paper types)

• Design proposals that speak your brand’s language

• Connection with seasonal storytelling (e.g. summer menu with thematic design)

• Tailored solutions for hotels, delivery services, event catering, boutique venues

We don’t stop at paper. We create:

• Complete communication plans through printed media
• Coordination of all materials: cards, menus, flyers, welcome packs
• Adaptation to seasonality or customer strategy
• Custom programs for hotels, brunch spots, tourist shops, fine-dining restaurants, or street food venues

If your print materials are “just there to exist,” you’re missing opportunities to tell your story.

And your story deserves to be told well.