Discover the best cardstock options for card making that balance weight, finish, and print quality. This guide highlights five top choices ideal for invitations, thank you notes, and handmade cards, with practical notes on compatibility with printers and ink types. Whether you need bright white, heavyweight cardstock, or color options, these selections cover common crafting needs and help ensure professional-looking results.
| Product | Weight | Finish | Size | Sheets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Neenah Index Cardstock (91437) | 90 lb | Smooth | 8.5 x 11 in | 300 |
| Joyberg White Cardstock | 85 lb (230 gsm) | Matte | 8.5 x 11 in | 30 |
| Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White | 65 lb | Smooth | 8.5 x 11 in | 75 |
| Cranium Press Heavyweight White Cardstock | 80 lb (176 gsm) | Smooth | 8.5 x 11 in | 50 |
| Neenah Exact Index Card Stock | 110 lb | Smooth | 8.5 x 11 in | 250 |
Neenah Index Cardstock, 90 lb, White, 300 Sheets
Neenah Index White Cardstock offers a smooth surface with crisp white color, delivering high-resolution prints suitable for professional cards and invitations. The 90 lb weight places it between typical Bristol and cover weights, providing a lightweight yet sturdy option for greeting cards. Each pack contains 300 sheets of 8.5″ x 11″ stock, ensuring you have ample material for multiple projects. The finish supports vibrant ink without excessive show-through, making it a versatile choice for both inkjet and laser printers, as well as craft embellishments.
White Cardstock 8.5 x 11, 230gsm (Joyberg)
Joyberg White Cardstock provides heavyweight 230 gsm (85 lb) stock with a smooth matte finish for even ink absorption and clean, bold prints. The double-sided matte surface supports a wide range of writing instruments and printing applications, including card covers, posters, and invitations. The 8.5″ x 11″ size fits standard printers, making it a practical option for home crafters who want a premium, versatile surface without bleed-through or ghosting.
Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 65 lb
Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock combines a bright white surface with a smooth finish, suitable for a variety of print methods including inkjet, laser, and offset. At 65 lb, it is lighter than typical invitation stock but still provides a crisp, professional look, making it ideal for cards that emphasize vivid color and sharp lines without excessive bulk.
Cranium Cranium Heavyweight White Cardstock, 80 lb
Cranium Press offers a premium medium-weight 80 lb (176 gsm) cardstock with a smooth finish and high brightness. Designed for invitations, menus, and wedding stationery, this stock provides reliable ink holdout, minimal show-through, and a clean, polished appearance. The stock is well-suited for both single- and double-sided prints and works well with a range of printers for crisp results.
Neenah Exact Index Card Stock, 110 lb
Neenah Exact Index is a heavyweight 110 lb (index) cardstock with a smooth finish and 94 brightness, making it ideal for business cards, letterheads, menus, and high-quality invitations. The extra heft provides a premium feel and durability for cards that require rigidity, while maintaining a clean printing surface suitable for detailed graphics and text. It is a strong choice for formal, professional card making.
Joyberg Blank Cards And Envelopes, 4×6
Joyberg Blank Cards and Envelopes provide a practical option for quick, self-made card sets. The package includes blank white 4×6 cards and matching A4 envelopes for easy mailing, with a double-adhesive envelope system and a sturdy 200 g/m2 card stock that resists bleed-through. This kit is suitable for DIY notes, small invitations, and craft projects that require a ready-to-use format.
8.5×11 Colored Cardstock, 30 Sheets
EHME Colored Cardstock provides a set of 30 sheets in multiple colors with a 230 gsm weight. The double-sided matte finish supports a variety of printing methods and crafting activities, including card making, scrapbooking, and invitations. The assorted colors add visual interest to cards, while the weight and finish help prevent warping and feathering of ink.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Weight and rigidity: Heavier weights (80–110 lb index or 176–176 gsm) yield sturdier cards that feel premium but may require compatible printers or slower print speeds. Lighter weights are more flexible for folding and brimming with markers or paints.
- Finish and ink compatibility: Matte finishes are forgiving for handwriting and photography prints, while smooth finishes enhance sharp text and images. Consider whether your printer is optimized for coated or uncoated stock to avoid smearing or ghosting.
- Brightness and color: Bright white stock provides strong contrast for photos and dark inks, while off-white or colored stock adds mood and style to invitations and handmade cards.
- Size and compatibility: 8.5 x 11 inch stock is standard for home printers; ensure your device can handle the weight and type of cardstock you choose. For DIY cards, consider pre-scored or folded options if available.
- Printability and bleed: If you need edge-to-edge coverage, select stock with good ink holdout and minimal show-through, especially for double-sided designs.
- Cost and availability: Packs range from small 30-sheet bundles to large 250–300 sheet reams. Factor in waste, storage, and the intended volume of card making.
- Specialized applications: Some index or heavyweight stocks are ideal for business cards and menus, while standard white cardstock suits invitations and general greeting cards.