Understanding GSM and Microns: What Do They Mean for Swing Tags?
When it comes to materials, there are plenty of ways to measure their properties – from size and weight to density and thickness. For swing tags, thickness and density are especially relevant, and while closely linked, they each tell us something slightly different.
Grams Per Square Metre (GSM)
You’ve probably come across GSM when buying office paper. As a guide:
- Newspaper stock is around 40–50 GSM
- Standard printer paper is about 80 GSM
- A typical business card starts at roughly 300 GSM
GSM refers to how many grams a square metre of material weighs. It’s technically a measurement of density, but since paper and card tend to have consistent composition, it also gives us a useful sense of thickness.
Microns
Microns (or micrometres, written as μm) are a measure of distance – incredibly small distance. One micron is a thousandth of a millimetre. To put that into perspective, it takes about 20 microns to match the width of the finest human hair.
While "micron" is an older term, it’s still commonly used in industries like printing and stationery.
Comparing GSM and Microns
For many paper and card materials, GSM and microns increase together. For example:
- 80 GSM paper is typically around 100 microns
- Our standard coloured board is 300 GSM and 380 microns
However, not all materials follow this pattern. Take our Brown Kraft swing tags – they weigh in at 259 GSM but measure a substantial 457 microns thick. This means they feel lightweight but still provide impressive rigidity and durability.
Why Both Measurements?
Old habits die hard in print. That’s why you’ll often see GSM, microns, or both listed across different materials.
Which Material Is Right for Your Swing Tags?
Choosing the perfect material depends on what you’re after – lightweight elegance, bold thickness, or a balance of both. To help you decide, why not order our free sample pack? You’ll get a hands-on feel for our full range of swing tags, delivered straight to your door.