Paper conversion: Length, Surface & Weight factors

Here, we present tables of conversion factors between customary and SI units for key paper-related measurements. Use these references to ensure accurate and consistent calculations in your paper projects.

Understanding Paper Conversion Factors

Navigating between different units of measurement is crucial for ensuring accuracy in your paper-related calculations. This page provides essential conversion factors for length, surface area, and weight, helping you convert measurements quickly and easily to meet your needs. Whether you’re calculating grammage, thickness, or strength, these conversion tables simplify your work and support consistent results.


Length

1 meter 1.094 yards
1 centimetre 0.394 inches
1 millimetre 0.039 inches
1 yard 0.914 meters
1 foot 0.305 meters 
1 inch 2.54 centimetres

 

Weight

1 metric tonne
0.984 long tons/1.102 short tons 
1 kilogram
2.306 pounds/35.274 ounces
1 gram 0.035 ounces
1 pound 453.6 grams
1 ounce 28.35 grams

 

Surface

1 square meter
1.196 square yards/10.764 square feet/1550 square inches
1 square centimetre 0.155 square inches
1 square millimetre 0.002 square inches
1 acre 0.4046 hectare
1 square yard 0.836 square metres
1 square foot 929 square centimetres/0.0929 square metres
1 square inch 6.452 square centimetres

 

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Grammage Converter

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Conversion factors

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FAQ

Grammage is the mass per unit area of paper, typically expressed in grams per square meter (g/m²). To convert from pounds per 1000 square feet (lb/1000ft²) to g/m², multiply the value by 4.8824.

To convert thickness from millimetres (mm) to micrometres (µm), multiply by 1000. For example, 0.5 mm × 1000 = 500 µm.

To convert paper strength from kilograms-force per square centimetre (kgf/cm²) to kilopascals (kPa), multiply by 98.0665. For example, 10 kgf/cm² × 98.0665 = 980.67 kPa.

Grammage (g/m²) measures the mass of paper per unit area. Basis weight is typically expressed in pounds per ream (lb/ream) or pounds per 1000ft². Different regions use different conventions, but both measure paper mass.

The conversion tables provide simple multipliers to convert between units. Find the property you want to convert (e.g. grammage or thickness), then use the “Multiply By” value in the table to convert it to the desired unit.

Yes, industry standards recommend using SI units for consistency and accuracy. Common conversions include g/m² for grammage, µm for thickness, and kPa for strength.

Using the correct units ensures that you meet product specifications, maintain consistent quality, and avoid costly errors in production and packaging.