What is Card Stock? Types, Weights, Finishes, and Best Uses

Cardstock is the go-to choice when you need paper that’s thicker and sturdier than standard printer sheets but still flexible enough for a variety of creative and professional uses.

From wedding invitations to product packaging, the right cardstock can elevate both the look and feel of your project. 

What Exactly is Cardstock? 

Cardstock is a heavyweight paper designed to bridge the gap between everyday printer paper and rigid materials like paperboard or cardboard. It offers more structure, durability, and a premium feel compared to standard 80–100 gsm paper, yet it remains flexible enough to cut, fold, and print on easily.

In practical terms, cardstock is a favorite for projects where presentation and sturdiness matter, such as wedding invitations, business cards, postcards, product tags, packaging sleeves, and even creative crafts like scrapbooking or photo backdrops.

Modern cardstock can be made from virgin wood pulp, recycled fibers, or a blend of both. More eco-friendly options are widely available, such as FSC-certified and post-consumer recycled cardstock, without compromising print quality or durability.

Cardstock vs Cover Stock

The terms cardstock and cover stock are often used interchangeably, and in most cases, they refer to the same type of thick, durable paper. The distinction comes down to industry usage and finishing.

• Cardstock is the general term for heavy paper in a range of weights and finishes, used in crafts, printing, and packaging.
• Cover stock is a term more common in the printing and commercial design world. Technically, cover stock is cardstock that has been coated, either with a glossy, matte, or specialty finish, to enhance print quality and durability.

For example, a 14pt uncoated sheet might be sold as “cardstock,” while the same sheet with a matte or gloss coating on one or both sides might be marketed as “cover stock.” Printing suppliers often label coated varieties as C1S (coated one side) or C2S (coated two sides).

Cardstock Weight and Thickness: How to Choose The Right One? 

Choosing the right cardstock starts with understanding how weight and thickness are measured and how those numbers translate to real-world use.

Cardstock can be labelled in three main ways:

• Pounds (lb): A U.S. measurement based on the weight of 500 sheets of a given size before cutting. This means 100 lb cardstock isn’t twice as thick as 50 lb.
• Points (pt): Measures thickness directly, with 1 point equal to 0.001 inches. For example, 16pt cardstock is 0.016 inches thick.
• Grams per square meter (gsm): A global standard that measures weight by area, making it the most consistent across brands and countries.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Weight & Thickness

Durability Needs

If the cardstock will be handled often (business cards, menus), go thicker (14pt–18pt). For lightweight applications like flyers or inserts, thinner options (10pt–12pt) work well.

Printing Method

Inkjet printers may struggle with cardstock above ~80–100 lb (200–270 gsm). Professional printing presses can handle up to 24pt or more with specialty finishes.

Finishing Techniques

Foil stamping, embossing, or die-cutting work better on thicker cardstock. If you need a writable surface, avoid heavy coatings and stick to uncoated or lightly coated stocks.

Mailing Considerations

Postal regulations in many countries charge more for heavier cardstock. Always check thickness and weight limits for postcards or mailers.

Common Cardstock Weights and Their Uses 

Cardstock Finishes 

The finish of cardstock determines both how it looks and how it feels in hand and in many cases, how well it works with certain printing methods. The right finish can make colors pop, add texture, or create a refined, understated look.

1. Gloss Finish

A gloss finish creates a shiny, reflective surface that enhances color vibrancy and sharpness. It’s commonly used for marketing materials, high-impact visuals, and photo-heavy designs.

Best For: Product packaging, event flyers, photography prints.

2. Matte Finish

Matte finishes offer a smooth, non-reflective surface with a softer, more muted appearance.

Best For: Wedding invitations, premium business cards, menus.

3. Satin or Silk Finish (2025 Trend)

Satin is the middle ground between gloss and matte. It has a soft sheen that keeps colors vivid without full glare.

Best For: Luxury brochures, upscale packaging, premium menus.

4. Textured Finishes

Textures add depth and tactile appeal to cardstock. Popular options include:

• Linen: Subtle crosshatch pattern, fabric-like feel — great for formal stationery.
• Felt: Soft, velvety surface for high-end invitations.
• Hammered: Slightly dimpled texture, adds a handcrafted touch.
• Laid: Parallel lines reminiscent of old-fashioned writing paper.

Best For: Wedding suites, certificates, creative packaging.

Textures 

Texture in cardstock is a powerful design element that influences how your project is perceived. A subtle linen weave can add sophistication, while a hammered surface can make a design feel handcrafted. 

• Linen

• Felt

• Hammered

• Laid

• Embossed Patterns (2025 Trend)

• Recycled Fiber Texture (Eco-Friendly Option)

If your design has heavy ink coverage or small text, choose a smoother texture to ensure sharp printing. If you’re aiming for tactile engagement and a premium look, textured cardstock can make a lasting impression, even before the content is read.

Coated vs Uncoated Cardstock: Which One Should You Pick? 

One of the most important choices you’ll make when selecting cardstock is whether to go coated or uncoated. This decision affects not only the look and feel of your project but also how it prints, resists wear, and handles writing or stamping.

Coated Cardstock

Coated cardstock has a smooth, sealed surface created by applying a matte, gloss, or satin coating during manufacturing. This coating prevents ink from soaking deeply into the paper, resulting in sharper detail and more vibrant colours.

• Gloss Coating: High shine, maximum color pop.
• Matte Coating: Smooth and muted, with no glare.
• Satin/Silk Coating: Soft sheen between gloss and matte.
• C1S (Coated One Side): Ideal when only one side needs a polished finish (e.g., postcards with a writable back).
• C2S (Coated Two Sides): Best for double-sided printing like brochures or packaging sleeves.

Uncoated Cardstock

Uncoated cardstock has a natural, porous surface with no sealing layer. This allows ink to absorb into the fibers, giving a softer, more organic look.

Printing on Cardstock 

Cardstock’s thickness and surface finish make it a popular choice for professional-quality prints, but it also means you can’t treat it like standard office paper. Choosing the right printing method ensures crisp results, prevents jams, and keeps your design looking as intended.

Eco-Friendly Cardstock Options 

As sustainability becomes a priority for both businesses and consumers, cardstock manufacturing has evolved to offer options that reduce environmental impact without sacrificing quality. 

In 2025, eco-friendly cardstock is no longer a niche choice; it’s widely available, competitively priced, and suitable for both creative and commercial projects.

Always check for certifications (FSC, Green Seal, or EU Ecolabel) when sourcing eco-friendly cardstock. These labels ensure you’re getting a product that meets verified sustainability standards, not just “green” marketing claims.

Popular Uses for Cardstock 

Cardstock’s unique balance of durability and flexibility makes it one of the most versatile materials in printing, crafting, and packaging. Whether you’re designing for a formal event, building a brand, or creating something purely for fun, the right cardstock can elevate both the look and functionality of your project.

• Business Cards

• Invitations & Event Stationery

• Product Packaging

• Postcards & Direct Mail

• Menus & Table Cards

• Certificates & Awards

• Scrapbooking & Craft Projects

• Display & Signage 

In a Nutshell 

Cardstock is the sweet spot between regular paper and rigid board, strong enough to last, yet flexible enough for a wide range of creative and professional uses. The right choice comes down to matching weight (for durability), finish and texture (for look and feel), and coating (for print performance) to your project’s needs.

In 2025, you also have more options than ever, from eco-friendly and tree-free cardstocks to innovative coatings and textures that were once only available for large-scale production. 

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between cardstock and regular paper?
Ans: Cardstock is thicker, sturdier, and more durable than regular printer paper, making it better for projects that require structure, like invitations, packaging, or business cards.

Q: How is cardstock thickness measured?
Ans: Cardstock thickness is measured in points (pt), pounds (lb), or grams per square meter (gsm). Points measure actual thickness, while lb and gsm measure weight.

Q: Can I print cardstock at home?
Ans: Yes, if your printer supports heavy paper. Most home inkjet printers handle up to 80–100 lb (200–270 gsm), while thicker stocks may require professional printing.

Q: What’s the difference between coated and uncoated cardstock?
Ans: Coated cardstock has a smooth, sealed surface for sharper printing and vibrant colors. Uncoated cardstock has a natural, porous texture that’s easier to write or stamp on.

Q: Is eco-friendly cardstock as durable as regular cardstock?
Ans: Yes. Modern eco-friendly options, including recycled, FSC-certified, and tree-free cardstocks, match or exceed the durability of traditional versions.

Q: What cardstock weight is best for business cards?
Ans: 14pt–16pt (around 300–350 gsm) is the standard for durable, professional business cards. Go thicker (18pt–24pt) for a luxury feel.