Some grades of paper have more weights available than others. In common, you may find:

Bond - The majority of bond is either 16# (or 16lb) for forms, 20# for copying and quick printing, or 24# for stationery like letterheads. You can get other weights, such as 13#, 28#, and 32# for some brands.

Text - Text papers come only in relatively heavy weights required to carry the texture of the paper. Most jobs using text run on 70# and 80#. Sometimes 60# and 100#.

Uncoated Book - You can get offset in many weights. 50#, 60# and 70# are most common. More printing jobs run on 60#.

Coated Book - Print buyers specify a greater range of weights in coated than in other grades. Sheetfed jobs use weights from 60# to 110#; web printing use weights form 30# to 70#.

Cover - Most cover stock is specified as 60#, 65#, 80# or 100# or in calipers of 8pt, 10pt, 12pt.

Understanding paper weight can also:

• increase control on paper cost;
• increase control on postage.