TISSUE PAPER WEIGHT GUIDE

GSM Tissue Paper Guide

Compare common GSM tissue paper weights and quickly see how they differ in feel, use and cost. For most custom packaging, 17 GSM and 28 GSM are the two most practical choices.

Lightweight white tissue with a repeating black logo draped over a black gift box

Paper Weight Made Simple

GSM means grams per square metre. Lower GSM tissue paper is lighter, softer and usually more transparent. Higher GSM paper generally feels fuller, firmer and provides greater coverage.

COMMON PAPER WEIGHTS

What Is Each GSM Tissue Paper Used For?

Different paper weights suit different packaging styles. Use the thickness bars and industry icons for a quick comparison.

12–14 GSM

Very Lightweight

Jewelry
Small Gifts
Decorative

Used when a very light and delicate wrap is preferred.

17 GSM

Classic Lightweight Tissue

Best Value
Apparel
Retail
Accessories
E-commerce

The most versatile and economical choice for everyday branded packaging.

20–22 GSM

Medium-Light Tissue

Beauty
Boutique
Gifts

Adds a little more body while remaining relatively lightweight.

24–25 GSM

Medium Weight

Gift Boxes
Cosmetics
Retail

A firmer sheet for gift boxes and more structured presentation.

28 GSM

Premium Tissue

More Coverage
Premium Gifts
Fashion
Beauty
Branding

A more substantial tissue paper with greater coverage for branded packaging.

30–33 GSM

Heavy Tissue

Rigid Boxes
Luxury
Specialty

Used for specialty presentation where a heavier paper feel is wanted.

OUR MOST PRACTICAL OPTIONS

17 GSM or 28 GSM?

For most custom tissue paper orders, the choice comes down to budget, paper feel and the coverage you want from the sheet.

LOWER COST · BEST VALUE

17 GSM Tissue Paper

$ Lower Cost
More Economical Lower paper cost makes 17 GSM practical for everyday packaging and larger quantities.
One-Color Printing Best for simple logos, repeating patterns and clean branded designs.
Everyday Packaging Ideal for apparel, accessories, retail bags, boxes and e-commerce orders.
Soft & Flexible Lightweight and easy to fold with the classic tissue-paper feel.
Shop 17 GSM

PREMIUM · MORE SUBSTANTIAL

28 GSM Tissue Paper

$$$ Higher Cost
A Fuller Paper Feel
One-Color Logo Printing Use one logo color with a natural white or colored background in the Studio.
Premium Presentation More structure and coverage for boutiques, gifts and premium retail packaging.
Higher Overall Cost Final cost depends on the sheet size, paper color and order quantity.
More Coverage A fuller and more substantial sheet when you want the tissue itself to stand out.
Shop 28 GSM
$ symbols show relative cost rather than fixed pricing. Final pricing depends on sheet size, paper weight, paper color and quantity. Compare the current Studio prices using the same options.
17
Want lower cost and everyday versatility?

Choose 17 GSM for lightweight branded tissue and simple one-color printing.

28
Want a more substantial paper feel?

Choose 28 GSM for greater coverage and a more substantial sheet.

CHOOSE YOUR PAPER

Create Custom Tissue Paper for Your Packaging

Choose the paper weight that fits your budget, packaging style and artwork, then customize your tissue paper with your logo or design.