Hang Tag Paper and GSM Explained
Updated
GSM — grams per square metre — measures how heavy, and so how thick and stiff, a paper or board is. Most clothing hang tags use art card between 300 and 350 GSM. Choose 300 GSM for lightweight tags on shirts and tees, 350 GSM for denim and outerwear, and 600 to 700 GSM for premium tags. PVC is measured in microns instead.
Which GSM to choose
| Thickness | Feel | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 300 GSM | Light and flexible | Shirts, tees and lightweight garments |
| 350 GSM | Firm | Denim, outerwear and heavier garments |
| 600–700 GSM | Thick and rigid | Premium and luxury tags |
Hang tag materials compared
| Stock | Thickness | Finish options | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art card | 300–700 GSM | Matte, gloss, velvet or uncoated | Everyday garment tags |
| Kraft brown board | 300–350 GSM | Uncoated only | Organic and sustainable labels |
| Black board | 350–400 GSM | Matte with foil or spot UV | Premium and streetwear brands |
| AquaFlex PVC | 250–400 micron | Matte or gloss | Swimwear, outerwear and export |
Finishes that change the feel
- Matte lamination — a soft, non-reflective surface that resists fingerprints
- Gloss lamination — a reflective surface that makes colours look more saturated
- Foil stamping — metallic foil pressed into the stock
- Spot UV — a raised gloss coating on selected areas of the design
- Embossing and debossing — a raised or recessed impression pressed into the stock