Choosing the Right Paper Weight for Printing

Paper weight plays a major role in how a printed piece looks, feels, and performs. Lighter stocks are usually used for everyday printed materials, while heavier stocks are chosen when the job needs more strength, durability, or a more premium finish. The right selection depends on the type of product and how it will be used.

Different paper weights are better suited for different print jobs. Some are ideal for flyers and newsletters, while others work better for business cards, postcards, menus, and presentation pieces. Understanding these differences helps you choose a stock that matches both your budget and your final presentation.

Paper Weight / Stock	Common Use
60lb text	Flyers, newsletters, inserts, handouts
70lb text	Brochures, menus, basic marketing sheets
80lb text	Premium brochures, menus, booklets, presentation pieces
100lb text	High-end brochures, covers, postcards, presentation sheets
10pt cover	Lightweight postcards, flyers, simple business cards
12pt cover	Postcards, business cards, menus, sturdy promotional pieces
14pt cover	Premium business cards, durable postcards, high-impact marketing pieces
16pt cover	Luxury cards, thick postcards, premium presentation pieces

As a general rule, lighter paper is better for bulk distribution and short-term materials, while heavier paper gives a more professional and lasting impression. Text weight is best for items that need to fold easily, and cover stock is better for products that need to hold their shape and feel more solid in the hand.

At Journal Printing, we help customers choose the right paper weight based on the purpose of the project, the budget, and the final look they want to achieve. Whether you need flyers, menus, business cards, or brochures, the correct stock can make a big difference in both appearance and performance.