Paper Weight Conversion: GSM to LB
At QinPrinting, we understand that paperweight can be a confusing topic, especially when dealing with different measurement systems. In this article, we'll explain the difference between GSM and LBS (also known as lb or #), and provide you with the tools to convert between the two measurements.
GSM to LB
| gsm | = lb Text |
| = lb Cover |
LB to GSM
lb Cover = gsm
| Metric (gsm) | Cover (lb) | |
|---|---|---|
|
200 gsm |
74 lb cover |
|
|
250 gsm |
92 lb cover |
|
|
300 gsm |
111 lb cover |
|
|
350 gsm |
129 lb cover |
|
| Metric (gsm) | Text (lb) | |
|---|---|---|
|
80 gsm |
54 lb text |
|
|
100 gsm |
68 lb text |
|
|
105 gsm |
71 lb text |
|
|
120 gsm |
81 lb text |
|
|
128 gsm |
87 lb text |
|
|
140 gsm |
95 lb text |
|
|
157 gsm |
106 lb text |
|
|
160 gsm |
108 lb text |
|
|
180 gsm |
122 lb text |
|
|
200 gsm |
135 lb text |
|
| Cover (lb) | Metric (gsm) |
|---|---|
|
80 lb cover |
216 gsm |
|
90 lb cover |
244 gsm |
|
100 lb cover |
271 gsm |
|
110 lb cover |
298 gsm |
|
120 lb cover |
325 gsm |
|
130 lb cover |
352 gsm |
| Text (lb) | Metric (gsm) |
|---|---|
|
60 lb text |
89 gsm |
|
70 lb text |
104 gsm |
|
80 lb text |
118 gsm |
|
90 lb text |
133 gsm |
|
100 lb text |
148 gsm |
|
110 lb text |
163 gsm |
|
120 lb text |
178 gsm |
|
130 lb text |
192 gsm |
If you're still here and interested in finding out what lies behind the conversion that we just did for you, read on!
What is GSM?
GSM stands for Grams per Square Meter. It is a metric measurement used to describe the weight of paper. GSM is the standard paperweight measurement in most countries outside of the United States. The GSM is higher, the paper is thicker and heavier.
What is LBS (lb or #)?
LB (Pounds per Ream) is the imperial measurement used primarily in North America to describe the weight of paper. It is often abbreviated as lb or #. LBS is a different measurement from GSM. It measures the weight of a ream of paper. A ream is typically 500 sheets of paper in its uncut size.
| Paper Types or Categories | Standard Size |
|---|---|
|
Bond |
17" × 22" |
|
Cover |
20" × 26" |
|
Bristol |
22.5" × 28.5" |
|
Index |
25.5" × 30.5" |
|
Text |
25" × 38" |
As an example, here's a list of different types of 80 lb paper:
- 80 lb bond paper: 500 sheets of 17"×22" bond paper = 80 lb
- 80 lb cover paper: 500 sheets of 20" x 26" cover paper = 80 lb
- 80 lb Bristol paper: 500 sheets of 22".5 x 28.5" Bristol paper = 80 lb
- 80 lb index paper: 500 sheets of 25.5" x 30.5" index paper = 80 lb
- 80 lb text paper: 500 sheets of 25" x 38" text paper = 80 lb
You may find that the same amount of 80 lb cover paper is heavier than 80 lb text paper. Because 80 lb cover paper is calculated with 20" x 26" size paper and 80 lb text paper is calculated with 25" x 38" size paper.
Conversion Formula
Cover paper and text paper need different conversion formulas, so make sure to be clear about which you need.
GSM to LB Conversion Formula
1 gsm = 0.676 lb Text paper. So, multiply each gsm by 0.676.
1 gsm = 0.369 lb Cover paper. So, multiply each gsm by 0.369.
For example:
157 gsm = 106 lb Text paper (157 x 0.676)
157 gsm = 58 lb Cover paper (157 x 0.369)
LB to GSM Conversion Formula
1 lb of Text paper = 1.48 gsm. So, multiply each pound of text paper by 1.48.
1 lb of Cover paper = 2.708 gsm. So, multiply each pound of cover paper by 2.708.
For example:
80 lb. Text paper =118 gsm (80 x 1.48)
80 lb. Cover paper =216 gsm (80 x 2.708)
The choice of paper affects the quality, impact, design process, and price of the finished printed product. When you have a printing project, for example, a hardcover book, coffee table book, comic book, card deck, or any other, it's best to consult with us first. We are happy to provide expert advice to help you choose the perfect paper.
Get in touch today for an informal chat, or place a sample order to explore which paper best suits your needs. Our comprehensive paper samples manual is free—you only pay for the mailing cost to your chosen address. We look forward to working with you!