Does a higher GSM always mean a thicker hang tag? No. GSM describes paper mass per square metre, while caliper describes thickness. Compare the proposed stock, finished dimensions, construction and finish against an identifiable physical sample. Include the GSM, thickness unit and sample reference in your quotation brief rather than using a universal GSM-to-points conversion.
Our hang tag printing guide covers paper, print and finishing approval together. This guide adds a stock-comparison record for quotations using GSM, points or millimetres, so the buyer can identify exactly what is being compared.
Next steps: review the 400gsm coated-paper display reference, compare other custom hang-tag constructions, or request a stock comparison.
Separate GSM from the thickness measurement
GSM expresses the mass of paper per square metre. Paper caliper describes thickness; paper points describe thickness in thousandths of an inch. Keep the unit beside every number. A paper-point value is not a font-size instruction.
Jukebox’s published stock chart lists different GSM values for stocks sharing a point thickness. The purchasing implication is to request the proposed stock’s own data rather than apply a universal GSM-to-pt conversion. That chart describes another printer’s stocks; it does not establish CanKun’s available stock list or your order specification.
Compare three separate references
Ask the supplier to identify the underlying stock, the value being quoted and the physical reference that will be approved. State whether a quoted thickness describes an unfinished sheet or the finished tag after the proposed construction and finishing. If the buyer has an existing tag, send an identifiable reference and explain which features must be matched.
| Record | Ask the supplier | Buyer decision |
|---|---|---|
| Paper weight | GSM and precise proposed stock description | Is the quotation for the same specified stock? |
| Thickness | Caliper value, unit and measurement stage | Is this a declared stock value or an agreed sample measurement? |
| Physical reference | Sample ID, date and proposed finish | Does the actual sample meet the handling and appearance brief? |
| Permitted change | Alternative stock, reason and approval owner | May an alternative proceed, or is another sample required? |
Use a controlled sample comparison
Compare identifiable options against the same tag dimensions, artwork and intended use. If both the size and the stock change, a difference in handling cannot be attributed to the stock alone. Record those differences instead of treating “heavier” or “thicker” as a complete acceptance criterion.
Review the front, back and edge of each finished option. Note the surface appearance and how the approved printing and finishing look on it. Then review the card with the intended attachment. For an eyelet construction, use the hole, string and eyelet approval guide; stock selection does not replace assembly approval.
If stiffness, pull resistance, moisture behaviour or another measured property is important, specify the required evidence and acceptance criterion separately. GSM or a photograph alone does not prove that property. Agree whether additional evaluation is feasible and included before treating it as a production commitment.
Handle “same GSM, different feel” as a specification question
When two samples carry the same nominal GSM but feel different, keep both sample IDs and ask what stock, construction or finish differs. Request the thickness information for each proposed option. Do not approve a replacement by copying only the weight number from the old quotation.
A retained sample is useful only if the order links to it. Identify the stock and sample revision on the quotation and purchase approval. If the supplier proposes a substitution later, ask which appearance, printing and assembly checks must be repeated. Leave that change pending until the buyer’s named approver decides.
Copy this hang tag stock comparison brief
- Card ID, finished dimensions, quantity by version and intended attachment:
- Existing stock description and reference sample ID, if known:
- Proposed GSM and thickness, with units and measurement stage:
- Printing, coating or other requested finish for each face:
- Sample observations and any separately required performance evidence:
- Accepted option, approval owner, date and substitution rule:
Browse custom clothing hang tags and request a hang tag stock quotation. Send the known measurements and mark unknown values as pending, so they can be reviewed before sampling.
CanKun custom orders start at MOQ 100, with final quantities confirmed against the specification and artwork versions. Samples are free; shipping and special requirements are confirmed separately. Sampling usually takes 3 days after artwork and specification review. Bulk production usually takes 7–15 days after physical sample and specification approval, with shipping time separate. Wu Jess responds within 24 hours.