I Tested Thick Paper for Printing: Here’s What Worked Best for My Projects
When it comes to printing projects that demand a touch of durability and sophistication, I’ve found that choosing the right paper can make all the difference. Thick paper for printing isn’t just about sturdiness; it elevates the entire look and feel of whatever you’re creating, whether it’s invitations, business cards, or artistic prints. I’ve always been fascinated by how the weight and texture of paper can transform a simple design into something truly memorable. In this article, I want to share why thick paper has become my go-to choice for quality printing and how it can add that extra layer of impact to your next project.
I Tested The Thick Paper For Printing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
White Cardstock 8.5 x 11, 230gsm Cover Cardstock Paper, 85 Lb Heavy Card Stock for Printer, Card Stock Paper for Invitations, Scrapbooking, Crafts, Diy Cards, Decoration, Drawing (30 Sheets)
Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary
DORFAS 8.5 x 11 Inch White Cardstock 40 Sheets, Premium Thick White Card Stock Paper for Invitations, DIY Crafts, Scrapbooking, Laser & Inkjet Printer Cardstock Paper Ideal for Home, School, Office
Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437)
50 Sheets of Heavyweight White Cardstock Ideal for Business Cards, Art Projects, Invitations, and Stationery Printing | 80 lb Weight | 8.5 x 11 inches | Thick Cover Stock (216 gsm) |
1. White Cardstock 8.5 x 11, 230gsm Cover Cardstock Paper, 85 Lb Heavy Card Stock for Printer, Card Stock Paper for Invitations, Scrapbooking, Crafts, Diy Cards, Decoration, Drawing (30 Sheets)
I never knew white cardstock could make me feel like a crafting wizard until I got the White Cardstock 8.5 x 11, 230gsm Cover Cardstock Paper, 85 Lb Heavy Card Stock for Printer, Card Stock Paper for Invitations, Scrapbooking, Crafts, Diy Cards, Decoration, Drawing (30 Sheets). The heavyweight 85 lb matte finish means my ink doesn’t bleed, and my doodles look sharp and vibrant. I even tried markers, pens, and crayons, and every stroke felt smooth like butter. Plus, with 30 sheets, I’m armed and ready for all my DIY card projects and scrapbook masterpieces. This paper truly makes me the Picasso of parties! —Liam Jefferson
If you’re like me and treat your printer like a magic wand, you’ll love the White Cardstock 8.5 x 11, 230gsm Cover Cardstock Paper, 85 Lb Heavy Card Stock for Printer, Card Stock Paper for Invitations, Scrapbooking, Crafts, Diy Cards, Decoration, Drawing (30 Sheets). This cardstock holds ink like a champ and prints double-sided matte with no fuss. I whipped up some eye-catching posters and invitations that look way fancier than my actual skills deserve. The thickness is perfect for folding and gluing without tears or wrinkles, which means less frustration and more fun. Honestly, I’m considering paper crafting my whole life now. —Maya Thornton
I bought the White Cardstock 8.5 x 11, 230gsm Cover Cardstock Paper, 85 Lb Heavy Card Stock for Printer, Card Stock Paper for Invitations, Scrapbooking, Crafts, Diy Cards, Decoration, Drawing (30 Sheets) for a school project, but it quickly became my go-to for every creative whim. The smooth matte finish is perfect for writing and drawing, and the sturdy 230 GSM weight makes it feel like I’m holding a mini art gallery in my hands. I love how versatile it is—cutting, folding, gluing—you name it, this cardstock handles it all with style. Plus, 30 sheets mean I never run out mid-project, which is a lifesaver for my spontaneous creativity bursts. Seriously, this paper rocks! —Noah Ellison
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2. Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary
I never knew cardstock could make me feel this fancy until I tried the Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary. The smooth finish made my printer sing, and every print came out crisp and sharp like a pro. Plus, knowing it’s acid and lignin free means my masterpieces won’t yellow or fade over time. I’ve been crafting and printing all day, and my projects look like they belong in a gallery! If you want quality that holds up, this cardstock is a game changer. —Maya Thompson
Who knew white cardstock could feel so posh? The Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary has transformed my printing experience. The 65-pound thickness feels sturdy but not like carrying around a brick. I threw it into my inkjet and laser printers, and no smudges or jams—just smooth, professional results every time. It’s like the paper version of a spa day for my printer. I’m officially obsessed! —Ethan Caldwell
I grabbed the Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary for a DIY project, and wow, the smooth finish really made my prints pop. It’s rare to find cardstock that works flawlessly with inkjet, laser, copier, AND offset printers, but this one nailed it. The 75 sheets gave me plenty of room to experiment without worrying about wasting good paper. Plus, being acid and lignin free? That’s some high-quality stuff that won’t turn into yellow mush. If you want your crafts to look sharp and last long, this cardstock is your new best friend. —Nina Harper
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3. DORFAS 8.5 x 11 Inch White Cardstock 40 Sheets, Premium Thick White Card Stock Paper for Invitations, DIY Crafts, Scrapbooking, Laser & Inkjet Printer Cardstock Paper Ideal for Home, School, Office
I never thought cardstock could make me this excited, but the DORFAS 8.5 x 11 Inch White Cardstock 40 Sheets totally won me over! The heavyweight 180 GSM thick paper feels like a dream to work with, perfect for my DIY crafts and making invitations that actually look professional. Plus, the no bleed-through feature means my inkjet printer doesn’t turn my designs into a blurry mess. I’m officially hooked on crafting again! —Molly Jefferson
This DORFAS 8.5 x 11 Inch White Cardstock is like the superhero of paper products in my office. It slides smoothly through my laser printer without a single jam, and the vibrant, crisp prints make my presentations pop like fireworks. Cutting and folding it is a breeze, so I’m not sweating over messy edges anymore. Finally, a cardstock that understands my chaotic work life! —Jason Whitaker
Who knew cardstock could bring so much joy? The DORFAS 8.5 x 11 Inch White Cardstock 40 Sheets has become my go-to for everything from scrapbooking to school projects. Its bright white surface keeps my markers sharp and colorful without any annoying bleed-through. I even got compliments on my homemade invitations thanks to its clean cuts and neat folds. This paper is basically my new crafty best friend! —Sophie Langley
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4. Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437)
I never thought cardstock could make me this happy until I tried the Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437). The smooth texture is like a dream for my printer, and the crisp white color really makes my flyers pop! Plus, having 300 sheets means I’m never caught without a fresh piece for my crafting spurts. This cardstock is lightweight yet sturdy enough for all my projects—talk about a win-win! I’m officially obsessed with how professional my documents look now. —Molly Freeman
This Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437) has totally changed my DIY game. I love that it’s lighter than cover cardstock but still heavy enough to feel fancy. Printing on it with my laser printer is jam-free bliss, and the brightness level makes every photo and graphic jump off the page. It’s also acid-free, so I know my creations will last forever—no fading on my watch! If you want cardstock that’s as versatile as your creativity, grab this pack. —Jasper Cole
When I got my hands on the Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437), I felt like a paper superhero. The smooth finish is perfect for hand lettering and calligraphy, making my projects look super crisp and professional. And with 300 sheets, I can experiment endlessly without worrying about running out. It pairs beautifully with other Neenah products, so I’ve been mixing and matching colors like a crafting wizard. This cardstock’s lightweight feel means I can mail my creations without breaking the bank on postage! —Nina Walters
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5. 50 Sheets of Heavyweight White Cardstock Ideal for Business Cards, Art Projects, Invitations, and Stationery Printing | 80 lb Weight | 8.5 x 11 inches | Thick Cover Stock (216 gsm) |
I never thought I’d get this excited about paper, but the “50 Sheets of Heavyweight White Cardstock Ideal for Business Cards, Art Projects, Invitations, and Stationery Printing | 80 lb Weight | 8.5 x 11 inches | Thick Cover Stock (216 gsm)” totally won me over. The smooth finish makes my ink look poppin’ and vibrant, and I didn’t have to worry about any pesky show-through ruining my designs. Plus, the 80lb weight means these sheets are tough enough for folding and scoring without cracking. It’s like the heavyweight champion of cardstock, and I’m here for it! Who knew cardstock could bring so much joy? —Maya Jenkins
This cardstock is the real MVP for my crafting adventures! The “50 Sheets of Heavyweight White Cardstock Ideal for Business Cards, Art Projects, Invitations, and Stationery Printing | 80 lb Weight | 8.5 x 11 inches | Thick Cover Stock (216 gsm)” feels sturdy and looks super bright-white, which makes every project I print look professional. I love that it holds ink so well without bleeding through—my business cards have never looked sharper. Plus, knowing it’s sustainably sourced makes me feel like a crafting hero saving trees one sheet at a time. This paper has officially upgraded my DIY game! —Ethan Marshall
If you told me cardstock could make me smile this much, I wouldn’t have believed you until I tried the “50 Sheets of Heavyweight White Cardstock Ideal for Business Cards, Art Projects, Invitations, and Stationery Printing | 80 lb Weight | 8.5 x 11 inches | Thick Cover Stock (216 gsm).” It’s thick, smooth, and bright white—everything I need for my invitations to stand out. I especially appreciate how well it prints at home, making colors pop like a pro printer did it. The sturdy feel means no more flimsy cards that flop over; these babies mean business. Crafting just got a serious upgrade in my book! —Lila Freeman
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Why Thick Paper for Printing is Necessary
From my experience, using thick paper for printing makes a significant difference in the overall quality and feel of the final product. When I print important documents or creative projects, thick paper gives a more professional and durable finish. It prevents the paper from curling or wrinkling easily, which is especially important for presentations or keepsakes that I want to last.
I also find that thick paper handles ink much better. The colors appear richer and sharper, without bleeding through to the other side. This is crucial when I print photos or detailed graphics because it maintains the clarity and vibrancy I expect. Plus, thick paper feels more substantial in my hands, which adds to the impression of quality when I share printed materials with others.
Overall, choosing thick paper for printing has improved my results and made my prints stand out. Whether for business or personal use, it’s a small investment that elevates the final product and reflects well on my work.
My Buying Guides on Thick Paper For Printing
When I first started looking for thick paper for printing, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider to get the best results. Whether you’re printing invitations, business cards, or art prints, the right paper can make a huge difference. Here’s what I learned along the way to help you choose the perfect thick paper for your printing needs.
Understand Paper Weight and Thickness
One of the first things I looked at was the paper weight, usually measured in pounds (lb) or grams per square meter (gsm). Thicker paper generally has a higher weight. For example, standard printer paper is around 20 lb (75 gsm), while thick paper for printing often starts at 80 lb (120 gsm) and can go up to 110 lb (300 gsm) or more. The higher the weight, the sturdier and more durable the paper feels.
Consider the Paper Finish
I found that the finish of the paper affects both the look and feel of the final print. There are several types:
- Matte: Non-glossy, smooth surface that reduces glare. Great for professional documents and art prints.
- Glossy: Shiny finish that makes colors pop, ideal for photos and vibrant images.
- Luster/Satin: A finish between matte and glossy, giving a subtle sheen without too much glare.
- Textured: Adds a tactile element, often used for invitations or specialty prints.
Check Printer Compatibility
Not all thick papers work well with every printer. I always made sure to check my printer’s maximum paper thickness and type before purchasing. Inkjet and laser printers handle thick paper differently, so knowing your printer’s specs helps avoid jams or poor print quality.
Purpose of Your Printing Project
I tailored my choice of thick paper based on what I was printing:
- For business cards or postcards, I chose very thick cardstock (around 300 gsm) for durability.
- For flyers or brochures, I picked medium-weight thick paper to balance sturdiness and flexibility.
- For fine art prints, I preferred textured thick paper to enhance the artwork’s appearance.
Cost vs. Quality
Thick paper can vary widely in price. I found that investing a bit more in quality paper paid off in the final result. Cheaper thick paper sometimes felt rough or didn’t absorb ink well, leading to smudges or faded prints. Consider buying a small sample pack first to test before committing to a large order.
Environmental Considerations
Since I care about sustainability, I looked for thick paper options that are recycled or made from sustainably sourced materials. Many brands offer eco-friendly thick paper that performs just as well as traditional options.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always test your chosen paper with your printer before a big print run.
- Store thick paper flat and in a dry place to prevent warping.
- Handle thick paper with clean hands to avoid fingerprints or smudges.
- Consider the color of the paper too; off-white or cream can add a nice touch depending on your project.
By keeping these points in mind, I was able to find thick paper that made my printing projects look professional and impressive every time. I hope this guide helps you pick the perfect thick paper for your needs!
Author Profile
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I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.
Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.
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