Cardstock is a thick and sturdy type of paper that falls between regular printer paper and cardboard. It has a smooth, firm surface. This makes it great for printing, crafting, packaging, and other professional uses.
Unlike thin paper, cardstock holds its shape well. That is why it’s often used for invitations, business cards, brochures, and packaging tags.
Its strength and neat look make cardstock a popular choice for both creative projects and business printing. Whether you’re making a handmade card or marketing materials, cardstock gives a clean, professional finish that standard paper can’t match.
Cardstock vs. Cover Stock
Cardstock and cover stock are sometimes confused, but there are slight differences between the two, which you should know:
| Feature | Cardstock | Cover stock |
| Texture | Smooth, texture, or coated | Usually smooth and slightly heavier |
| Use | Crafts, cards, invitations, packaging | Book covers, brochures, presentation folders |
| Weight | 65 lb to 110 lb | Generally heavier and designed for covers |
Cardstock can be used for many different tasks. Cover stock is often chosen for covers and high-end print due to its weight and smooth texture.
Types of Cardstock
Cardstock comes in many different types, each offering a different look, texture, and purpose:
- Matte Cardstock:
Matte cardstock has a smooth, non-shiny finish. This makes it perfect for text-heavy prints, professional documents, and invitations.
- Glossy Cardstock:
Glossy cardstock is shiny and reflective, making colors look brighter and sharper. Commonly used for postcards, flyers, and brochures.
- Textured Cardstock:
Texture cardstock includes finishes like linen or canvas for a handcrafted, elegant feel. It’s ideal for wedding invitations and luxury packaging.
- Metallic / Specialty Cardstock:
Metallic cardstock adds a shimmer or special finish. This makes it perfect for premium projects like gift cards or high-end branding.
- Kraft / Recycled Cardstock:
Kraft cardstock is made from eco-friendly materials with a natural, rustic look. Ideal for sustainable packaging or vintage-style designs.
Thickness of Cardstock
Cardstock thickness is measured in pounds (lb) in the U.S. and GSM (grams per square meter) in other countries.
A higher weight or GSM means the cardstock is stronger and feels more premium. Thicker cardstock holds its shape better, making it great for professional and long-lasting projects. Here are the different levels of thickness available in cardstock.
| Weight (lbs) | Thickness (pt) | GSM | Description |
| 100 lb | 12pt | approx. 271-298 gsm | Sturdy, premium texture, holds up well |
| 110 lb | 14pt | approx. 298-325 gsm | More rigid than 100 lb, slightly thicker, polished look, durable |
| 120 lb | 16pt | approx. 325-350 gsm | Thicker and sturdier, perfect for high-end prints and packaging |
| 130 lb | 18pt | approx. 350-400 gsm | Very rigid, durable, strong, and premium structure |
| 160 lb | 24pt | approx. 450-500 gsm | Extra heavyweight cardstock, firm, used for specialized or luxury packaging |
Coated vs. Uncoated Cardstock
Cardstock can be coated or uncoated, each offering different finishes:
- Coated Cardstock:
Coated Cardstock has a smooth, glossy, or satin layer. It makes colors look brighter and gives a clean, polished finish. It’s great for brochures, postcards, product cards, and promotional materials.
- Uncoated Cardstock:
Uncoated Cardstock has a natural feel and absorbs ink well. It’s easy to write on and gives a softer finish. It’s ideal for stationery, invitations, etc.
Simple Guide To Choosing the Right Cardstock
Here’s a quick guide to choosing the right type:
- Matte Cardstock: Best for text, invitations, and formal prints.
- Glossy Cardstock: Perfect for photos, postcards, and marketing pieces.
- Textured Cardstock: Great for weddings, luxury branding, and crafts.
- Metallic Cardstock: Best for premium packaging and special occasions.
- Kraft Cardstock: Ideal for eco-friendly packaging and rustic designs.
How to Print on Cardstock
Printing on cardstock is simple and easy. Here’s how you can do it for the best results.
- Pick the right printer: Both inkjet and laser printers work on cardstock, but laser printers handle heavy cardstock better.
- Adjust paper settings: Change your printer settings to match the paper thickness to avoid jams.
- Feed cardstock properly: For thicker sheets, feed them one at a time or use the rear tray to keep them straight.
- Choose the right ink: Pigment-based ink produces sharper and longer-lasting results, especially on matte and glossy finishes.
- Let prints dry: Give the ink time to dry fully, especially on glossy cardstock, to prevent smudging.
Uses of Cardstock
Cardstock is very versatile and is used across industries for different uses, such as:
- Invitations & Greeting Cards (for weddings, birthdays, and holidays)
- Business Cards & Stationery (for a sturdy, professional feel)
- Brochures & Flyers (for high-quality marketing materials)
- Packaging (used for tags, sleeves, inserts, hang cards, and lightweight boxes)
Benefits of Cardstock
Cardstock offers several advantages to a variety of industries, such as
- Stays Sturdy, doesn’t tear or bend easily.
- Gives a clean, high-end finish.
- Works for both personal and commercial uses.
- It can be folded, cut, printed, and finished in many ways.
- Support different finishes of foil stamping, embossing, debossing, and coatings.
Conclusion
Cardstock is more than just thick paper. This material is versatile and durable. Often used in printing, crafting, and packaging. With a variety of types, thicknesses, and finishes, it can fit any creative or professional project. Whether you need premium invitations, strong packaging inserts, or high-impact marketing material, cardstock offers a perfect balance of strength, style, and print quality.