If you've ever picked up a planner in a store and felt the pages crinkle, bend, or let your pen bleed through to the next page, you already know that not all paper is created equal. It's one of those details that's easy to overlook until you're using the thing every single day, and then it's the only thing you notice.
We get asked about our paper a lot, so we figured it was time to put it all in one place.
What is GSM, and why should you care?
GSM stands for "grams per square metre." It's the standard way paper weight is measured, and it's the biggest factor in how a page feels and performs.
Lower GSM paper (like standard printer paper, usually around 80gsm) is thin and prone to ghosting, that's when you can see your pen marks through to the other side of the page. Higher GSM paper is thicker, more durable, and built to handle daily use without falling apart by week three.
Our planners use 120gsm paper. That's significantly heavier than your average notebook, which means:
- No ghosting or bleed-through, even with fineliners, gel pens, or markers
- Pages that hold up to daily writing, flicking, and the odd coffee cup placed too close
- A smoother writing experience, because thicker paper has a better surface for ink to sit on
If you've ever switched from a cheap notebook to a quality one and felt the difference immediately, that's GSM doing its job.
Why we chose FSC certified paper
Beyond how it feels and performs, we also care about where our paper comes from.
Our paper is FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified, which means it comes from responsibly managed forests, ones that meet strict environmental and social standards around how trees are harvested and replaced.
In practical terms, that means:
- The forests our paper comes from are managed to stay forests, not stripped and abandoned
- Biodiversity and local wildlife habitats are protected as part of the harvesting process
- The rights of local communities and workers involved in forestry are respected
As a small Australian business, we don't think sustainability should be reserved for big brands with big budgets. Choosing FSC certified paper was a straightforward decision for us: it's a better choice, and it doesn't mean compromising on quality.
The short version
When you're comparing planners (and we know you're probably comparing more than one, smart shopper), here's what to look for:
- Higher GSM = thicker, sturdier pages that won't ghost or tear
- FSC certification = paper sourced responsibly, from forests that are managed to last
We use 120gsm FSC certified paper in every planner we make, because the inside of your planner should feel as good as the outside looks.
Have a question about our paper, printing or customisation options? Email hello@yourperfectplanner.com.au