Understanding Paper GSM and Tooth for Sketching
Why paper makes the difference
Two terms decide how a sketch pad performs: GSM (weight) and tooth (texture). Understanding them helps you pick paper that suits your drawing perfectly. Here’s a simple guide.
What is GSM?
GSM means grams per square metre — how heavy and thick the paper is. The higher the number, the sturdier the paper.
- Lower GSM (around 90–120): thinner and lighter — fine for quick pencil sketches and practice, but it can buckle with wet media.
- Medium GSM (around 150–180): a great all-rounder for most dry drawing.
- Higher GSM (200+): thick and sturdy — handles ink, marker, and light washes without warping.
What is tooth?
“Tooth” describes how rough or smooth the paper surface is:
- Smooth: great for fine detail, ink, and technical drawing — lines glide cleanly.
- Medium tooth: versatile, good for general pencil sketching.
- Rough/heavy tooth: grips charcoal, pastel, and soft pencil for rich, textured marks.
How GSM and tooth work together
Both matter. For example, charcoal needs medium-high GSM with plenty of tooth; ink detail needs heavier, smoother paper. Matching them to your medium gives the best results.
Choosing for your medium
- Graphite pencil: medium GSM, light-medium tooth.
- Charcoal/pastel: medium-high GSM, more tooth.
- Ink/fineliner: heavier, smoother paper.
- Light watercolour wash: high GSM (or a mixed-media pad).
When in doubt, go versatile
If you draw with a mix of media, a medium-weight (around 160–180 GSM) pad with a light tooth is a brilliant all-rounder.
Find sketch pads in every weight and surface at casavioarchive.shop — delivered free across India, with 7-day returns.