Paper Weight - Pounds (#) vs. Points (pt)
Paper Weight Explained: Pounds vs. Points—And Why It Matters for Your Print Project
When ordering custom printed materials—whether it's business cards, packaging, brochures, or booklets—selecting the right paper stock can make a major difference in the final look and feel of your product. At AV Graphics Inc., we’re here to help you make informed choices that enhance your brand and ensure your print pieces stand out.
One of the most common questions we hear is: What’s the difference between paper weight in pounds and thickness in points? Let’s break it down.
Pounds (lbs): Measuring Paper Weight
Pound weight refers to the weight of 500 sheets of a specific paper type at its base sheet size. For example, 20 lb. bond paper means that 500 sheets of 17” x 22” bond paper weigh 20 pounds. Heavier pound weights usually indicate thicker, more durable paper—but keep in mind, this can vary based on the paper type.
In the printing world, pound weight is widely used to convey the paper’s substance and stiffness. It's especially useful when comparing text and cover stocks—for example, a 100 lb. cover stock is substantially heavier and thicker than a 100 lb. text stock.
Points (pts): Measuring Paper Thickness
Points, on the other hand, are a direct measurement of paper thickness. Each point equals 1/1000 of an inch. So, a 20 pt. card stock measures 0.020 inches thick, while a 24 pt. stock is 0.024 inches thick.
This is especially helpful when you need a precise gauge of paper thickness—such as when choosing materials for packaging, postcards, or specialty marketing pieces. Two papers can weigh the same in pounds but feel very different in hand depending on their point thickness and coating.
Why It Matters
Understanding the distinction between pounds and points helps ensure you’re selecting the best material for the job—whether you're going for premium rigidity, sleek flexibility, or something in between.
For instance:
Need a luxury-feel business card? Go with a thicker 16–24 pt. card stock.
Designing brochures or catalogs? A 100 lb. gloss text or matte text might hit the sweet spot between quality and affordability.
Packaging or retail displays? We’ll likely recommend a higher point stock with a specific coating for durability and finish.
Why Choose AV Graphics Inc.?
At AV Graphics Inc., we bring decades of experience in pairing the right paper with the right print. We work across industries—retail, health & wellness, food & beverage, and more—so we know what materials perform best in each application.
When you order from us, we don’t just print—we consult, recommend, and deliver. We encourage our customers to provide both the pound weight and point thickness (if available), as well as the paper brand name when possible. This gives our team the clearest understanding of your expectations so we can meet—and exceed—them.
Not sure what specs you need? No problem. Our knowledgeable print experts are always here to help you navigate the options, suggest alternatives, and make sure your project turns out exactly as envisioned.
Ready to Print with Confidence?
Let AV Graphics Inc. be your guide in selecting the perfect paper for your next print job. Whether it’s business cards, packaging, or promotional materials, we’ll make sure your project looks and feels exactly right.
Contact us today with any questions—we’re always happy to help you make the smartest (and sharpest) print decisions.