For Southeast Asian exporters looking to sell on Alibaba.com in the paper crafts category, understanding material specifications is the foundation of successful B2B transactions. Unlike consumer retail, B2B buyers need precise technical information to make bulk purchasing decisions. The most critical specification is GSM (grams per square meter), which determines paper thickness, durability, and suitability for different applications.
| Paper Type | GSM Range | Common Uses | B2B Order Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Print Paper | 75-90 GSM (20-24 lb) | Internal documents, drafts | Low |
| Thin Cardstock | 176-216 GSM (65-80 lb) | Greeting cards, flyers | High |
| Medium Cardstock | 245-300 GSM (80-110 lb) | Invitation cards, business cards | Very High |
| Heavy Cardstock | 352-440 GSM (90-140 lb) | Premium packaging, covers | Medium |
| Watercolor/Mixed Media | 440+ GSM (140+ lb) | Art projects, specialty crafts | Niche |
Data sourced from industry specifications [1].
According to industry guides, 65lb/176gsm cardstock is the entry-level standard for most paper craft applications, while 80lb/300gsm is considered the premium choice for invitation cards and high-end greeting cards [1]. The difference may seem small, but for B2B buyers ordering thousands of units, this specification directly impacts their end customer's perception of quality.
Paper weight is measured in pounds (lb) in the US system and grams per square meter (GSM) internationally. For cardstock, 65lb equals approximately 176gsm, while 80lb equals about 216gsm. Heavy cardstock for invitations typically ranges from 90-110lb (352gsm) [1].
For Alibaba.com sellers targeting Southeast Asian and global markets, listing products with clear GSM specifications is not optional—it's expected. Buyers from the US, Europe, and Australia routinely filter searches by weight specifications, and listings without this information are often skipped. The data shows that paper crafts products with detailed GSM information receive significantly more inquiries than those without.
Kraft paper represents another major category within paper crafts, particularly for eco-conscious buyers. Natural kraft (unbleached) and white kraft (bleached) serve different market segments. Natural kraft appeals to buyers seeking rustic, sustainable aesthetics, while white kraft is preferred for printing and branding applications. Both typically range from 120-300 GSM depending on the end use [4].
