What is a Ream Paper?

For anyone who goes to the stationery shop to buy paper, the term ‘Ream paper’ is likely pretty common. Whether it’s for your DIY projects, office use, or printing needs, every sort of paper bundle will have 1 Ream printed on it. But what is a Ream Paper? That remains a tough question to answer, especially for newcomers to the world of paper crafting. 

In this blog, we’ll explore what a ream of paper really is and why it’s so crucial to understand. 

What is a Ream Paper? 

A ream of paper, or ream paper is a standard method of measuring paper in bulk quantity. Simply put, it’s a measure of buying paper, just like you buy eggs in a dozen. Instead of asking to buy 500 sheets, you buy a ‘Ream Paper.’ 

Traditionally, a paper ream is equal to 500 sheets for machine-made paper, whereas it equals 480 sheets for handmade paper. However, it holds true for papers of the same size and type. So, when you buy a packet of printer paper from the shop, you’ve bought a ‘ream’ of paper. However, if you’re printing on cardstock, 250 sheets make up a ream. 

Where Does the Term ‘Ream’ Come From? 

The term ‘ream’ is derived from the Old French word raime, which translates to ‘bundle.’ Back in the 14th century, traders wanted a unit to sell and transport paper. This led to the adoption of paper reams, letting them bundle sheets together to sell them. 

Types of Paper Sold in Reams 

Now that you know what is a ream paper, you’re probably wondering if the concept applies to all sorts of papers. Well, the concept applies to many common and special types of paper. If you’re unsure, here’s a list of papers typically sold in reams: 

• Printer Paper Reams: Also known as laser or inkjet paper, this is the typical A4-size paper we use in everyday printing or copying documents. 

• Colored Paper Reams: This type of ream paper works best for creative projects since it’s available in a vast variety of colors. It’s especially useful for making presentations, making everything appear way more appealing. 

• Cardstock Reams: They’re usually specialty reams, consisting of heavier paper for special projects. Generally, a cardstock ream will contain 250 sheets of paper. 

• Recycled Paper Reams: Eco-friendly papers are also sold in reams and make ideal choices for offices with a high focus on sustainability. 

Understanding the Weight of Ream Paper

Besides understanding what is a ream paper, a crucial part is knowing the typical weight of it depending on the paper type. This knowledge will help you pick the right stock that best fits your project’s needs. For premium projects, you often need a heavier paper; however, your regular paper will get everyday tasks done effortlessly.

Now, the pack of 500 sheets of regular paper you see in stores, i.e., 20-pound bond paper, weighs around 5 pounds. The larger sheets are cut into the typical 8.5” x 11” sheets, which makes the overall bundle weigh less than 20 pounds. Naturally, for heavier 24-pound bond paper, the ream will weigh more due to denser sheets.

How to Find a Paper Ream’s Weight 

Here’s how to find your paper ream’s weight: 

• Check for a label on the bundle. 

• Know the type of paper you’re working with, i.e., cardstock, print, or recycled.

• A ream of 20-pound bond paper will weigh 5 pounds, but if it’s denser, the paper will have a different weight.