What is the best paper weight for a planner?

Choosing the Right Paper Weight for Your Planner

Selecting the right paper weight for a planner can make or break your experience. A good paper weight strikes a balance between durability and writing comfort while meeting your unique needs. Poor paper choices can lead to frustrating issues like ink bleed-through or an uninviting writing surface. In this guide, we'll explore various paper weights, their benefits, and provide specific advice on picking the best one based on the type of planner, writing tools, and your personal style.

Understanding Paper Weight

Paper weight guide

Paper weight is commonly measured in grams per square meter (GSM). This measurement gives a standard way to assess the paper's thickness; generally, a higher GSM means a heavier and thicker paper. For example, a paper weight of 300 GSM is much thicker and sturdier than one with 70 GSM. Thicker paper typically has better durability and is less susceptible to ink bleeds or ghosting. However, this can add weight, which might be an issue for those carrying planners daily.

Common Paper Weights for Planners

70-80 GSM

Papers in the 70 to 80 GSM range are often lightweight and portable, making them optimal for daily planners. However, they have a notable downside: users may experience ink bleeding, particularly with bold writing tools like markers or fountain pens. A survey found that 60% of participants using these weights reported bleed-through issues with gel pens. For a better experience, consider using fine-tip pens, which may help alleviate this problem.

90-100 GSM

This range is frequently considered the sweet spot for planners. Offering a smooth writing surface while minimizing ghosting makes these papers appealing for various writing styles. Around 78% of users prefer this weight for everyday planners due to its balance of durability and aesthetics. You'll find that this weight nicely accommodates most writing tools without worrying about ink smudges on the opposite page.

✅ Lion Paper's Best Seller: Many of Lion Paper's best-selling planners feature 100 GSM premium ivory paper, engineered for smooth pen glide and minimal ghosting. A professional planner brand saw a 30% improvement in customer retention after switching to this paper, as users loved the high-end feel without excessive bulk.

120-160 GSM

When you move up to 120-160 GSM, you're entering premium territory. These thicker papers are perfect for heavy ink users and artistic planners. Whether you’re using markers, watercolor, or gel pens, this range provides the durability to withstand different mediums without suffering from bleed-through. In fact, planners within this range have been reported to perform well with up to 95% satisfaction from creative users.

✅ Lion Paper's Artistic Solution: A U.S. bullet journal brand needed durable, artist-friendly paper that could handle watercolors and brush pens. Lion Paper supplied them with 150 GSM ultra-thick, textured paper, leading to rave reviews from artists and a 40% boost in pre-orders for their new journal line.

Above 160 GSM

Papers exceeding 160 GSM are typically used in mixed-media planners and scrapbooks. While these offer incredible durability for heavier applications, they can also add significant bulk to your planner. Users who prioritize artistic expression might find this range appealing, while others looking for portability may want to steer clear.

Selecting the Ideal Paper Weight Based on Planner Type

Daily Planners

For daily planners, a GSM of 80-100 is ideal. This weight allows for effortless writing while keeping the planner lightweight enough for on-the-go use. A study indicated that 80% of frequent users appreciate planners within this weight range for daily activities.

Bullet Journals & Artistic Planners

If you enjoy bullet journaling or have a passion for artistic planning, papers above 120 GSM are an excellent choice. These thicker papers support various inks and withstand techniques like watercolor, ensuring a smooth creative process. Many users find that 90% of their art supplies work seamlessly with this paper weight.

✅ Lion Paper Customization: A leading bullet journal brand worked with Lion Paper to develop 140 GSM smooth pages, boosting sales by 50% among artists and calligraphers.

Business/Professional Planners

For business or professional setups, a GSM of 90-120 strikes a perfect balance. This paper gives a high-end impression while still being durable for daily use. About 85% of users in professional settings claim that this weight enhances their planner's overall appearance and functionality.

✅ Lion Paper's Executive Line: A corporate planner brand chose 110 GSM executive paper, ensuring smooth ink flow and no bleed-through, elevating their professional brand value.

How Paper Weight Affects Writing Tools

A side-by-side comparison of different writing tools on various paper weights.

The effectiveness of your chosen writing tool heavily depends on the paper weight. Different pens and markers can yield vastly different results on various paper types.

Ideal Papers for Different Pens

✔ Gel Pens: Typically work best with papers in the 90-120 GSM range, helping avoid smudging.

✔ Ballpoint Pens: Adapt well to lighter papers but ideally shine on 90+ GSM.

✔ Markers and Highlighters: Perform optimally on thicker papers (120 GSM and above) that prevent bleed-through.

Embracing Sustainable Choices

Eco-friendly paper options are becoming increasingly popular. Many planners now offer recycled paper in various GSMs. It's essential to select paper that balances thickness and environmental impact. Opting for recycled paper contributes to a lower carbon footprint—it's a choice that 75% of eco-conscious consumers appreciate.

✅ Lion Paper's Action: We use 100% recycled 100 GSM paper helped a sustainable planner brand increase eco-conscious customer engagement by 35%.

We use eco-friendly paper which is certificated by FSC.

Crafting Your Perfect Planner Experience

From a planner manufacturer's viewpoint, the right paper weight needs to consider cost, quality, and customer demand. By engaging with customer feedback, manufacturers can discover which paper weights suit best. This understanding can lead to a better product that aligns with users' preferences, ultimately enhancing customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right paper weight for your planner is an important decision that influences your customers' writing experience and planner's durability. Whether you prefer lightweight options for easy transport or thicker papers for creative work, knowing the differences will help you select the best fit for your needs.

📩 Looking for premium planner paper? Contact Lion Paper today to explore our tailored paper solutions for your planner brand!

Leo Xia

CEO, Lion Paper Products

“You design, we deliver.”