Weigh up the new lightweights

Since its launch in 1972, Coloplan’s only text weights where 135gsm and 175gsm, but even the lighter of these two was regarded as a little bulky for the majority of stationery uses. In the late 19070s GFSmith introduced its own machine-made envelope service which further highlighted the deficiency in Colorplan's stationery weight papers. Their Strathmore range already included 104gsm and 120gsm weights which were ideal for envelopes and letterheads. So, in 1982, 100gsm Colorplan was introduced in thirteen shades with a specially engineered surface to provide a finish more suited to stationery applications. Designed by Bill Mackay, 'Weigh up the new Lightweights' is the promotional piece for this mini range. It told the story of the ranges suitability and affordability, and included in A4 sample sheets and matching DL And C6 envelopes. In the years which followed, more shades were introduced into the collection, and in the 1990s a 120gsm weight was added.