The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Cardstock for Greeting Cards
The paper you choose makes or breaks your greeting card. Too thin, and it feels cheap. Too thick, and your printer jams. The wrong finish, and your handwritten message smears.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about cardstock—so you can create cards that look and feel like they came from a boutique stationery shop.
What Weight Cardstock Should I Use for Greeting Cards?
80 lb cardstock is the ideal weight for most greeting cards. It's thick enough to feel substantial, thin enough for clean folds, and compatible with nearly all home printers.
Here's how different weights compare:
| Weight | Thickness | Feel | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50-60 lb | 6-8 pt | Flimsy, like copy paper | Not recommended for cards |
| 65 lb | 8-10 pt | Light but acceptable | Budget cards, simple designs |
| 80 lb | 10-12 pt | Professional, balanced | All-purpose greeting cards |
| 100 lb | 12-14 pt | Thick, premium | Special occasions |
| 110+ lb | 14+ pt | Very thick, luxurious | Invitations, announcements |
Understanding Cover vs. Text Weight
Cardstock comes in two measurement systems:
- Cover weight: What you want for cards. "80 lb cover" is thick cardstock.
- Text weight: Thinner, like magazine pages. "80 lb text" is NOT suitable for cards.
Important: Always look for "cover" weight when buying cardstock for greeting cards. An 80 lb text sheet is completely different from an 80 lb cover sheet.
What's the Best Cardstock Finish for Greeting Cards?
Matte finish is best for cards you'll write on. It accepts ink from pens without smearing and provides a classic, elegant look.
| Finish | Characteristics | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matte | Flat, non-reflective | Easy to write on, no glare | Colors slightly less vibrant |
| Glossy | Shiny, reflective | Vibrant colors, photo-like | Hard to write on, shows fingerprints |
| Satin/Semi-gloss | Subtle sheen | Balance of color and writability | May smear with some pens |
| Linen | Textured surface | Elegant, hides print imperfections | Ink may spread slightly |
| Uncoated | Natural, soft | Warm feel, eco-friendly look | Colors absorb differently |
When to Choose Glossy
Glossy works well for:
- Photo cards where you won't write inside
- Cards going in a frame
- Designs with large photographic images
For everything else, matte is your safest choice.
Is Recycled Cardstock Good for Greeting Cards?
Yes—modern recycled cardstock performs nearly identically to virgin paper. Look for post-consumer recycled (PCR) content with at least 30% recycled fibers for the best balance of quality and sustainability.
What to Look For
- Post-consumer recycled (PCR): Made from paper that's already been used
- FSC-certified: Sourced from responsibly managed forests
- Chlorine-free: Better for the environment during processing
Quality Considerations
Recycled cardstock may have:
- Slightly warmer, off-white tones (often a plus for nature-themed cards)
- Occasional visible fiber flecks (adds character)
- Comparable print quality to non-recycled options
Many recipients appreciate knowing their card is eco-conscious—it aligns with the thoughtfulness of sending a physical card in the first place.
What Cardstock Brands Are Most Reliable?
Neenah, Mohawk, and Hammermill consistently produce high-quality cardstock that works well in home printers and produces professional results.
| Brand | Known For | Price Point |
|---|---|---|
| Neenah | Premium quality, excellent color | $$$ |
| Mohawk | Eco-friendly options, variety | $$-$$$ |
| Hammermill | Reliable, widely available | $-$$ |
| Astrobrights | Vibrant colors | $-$$ |
| Recollections | Craft store staple, variety packs | $ |
For best results, buy from a reputable source. Generic or no-name cardstock can cause printer issues and inconsistent results.
How Do I Store Cardstock Properly?
Store cardstock flat, in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Humidity causes warping, and sunlight fades colors over time.
Storage Best Practices
- Keep cardstock in its original wrapper until use
- Store horizontally (never standing upright)
- Use a sealed plastic container in humid climates
- Keep away from heat sources and radiators
- Use within 1-2 years for best results
Warped or curled cardstock causes jams and uneven printing. If your paper has curled, try flattening it under heavy books for 24 hours before printing.
How Much Cardstock Do I Need?
Plan for 10-15% extra sheets to account for test prints and errors. Cardstock is relatively inexpensive, and running out mid-project is frustrating.
Quick Calculation
| Cards Needed | Add for Tests/Errors | Total Sheets |
|---|---|---|
| 10 cards | +2-3 sheets | 12-13 sheets |
| 25 cards | +4-5 sheets | 29-30 sheets |
| 50 cards | +6-8 sheets | 56-58 sheets |
| 100 cards | +10-15 sheets | 110-115 sheets |
Half-fold cards use one sheet per card. Quarter-fold cards also use one sheet but with different printing layout.
What's the Difference Between Cardstock and Card Blanks?
Cardstock is flat sheets you print and fold yourself. Card blanks are pre-scored and folded cards ready for printing.
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Cardstock sheets | More control, cheaper per card | Requires scoring and folding |
| Card blanks | Pre-folded, convenient | More expensive, limited sizes |
For most home printing, buying cardstock sheets and folding them yourself offers better value and flexibility.
Choosing Your Perfect Paper
The right cardstock transforms a printed design into a tactile keepsake. For most cards, start with 80 lb matte cover stock—it's forgiving, professional, and works in virtually any printer.
Once you're comfortable, experiment with textures and finishes to match specific occasions. A linen finish for a wedding card. Recycled kraft for an eco-conscious friend. Glossy for a photo holiday card.
Ready to put your cardstock to use? Explore our printable greeting card designs and create something worth keeping.