10 Best Cardstock Papers for Crafts: Elevate Your DIY Projects Today

Written by: Editor In Chief
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When it comes to crafting, the right cardstock can make all the difference in your projects. You want options that not only offer durability but also vibrant colors and finishes to enhance your creativity. From scrapbooking to card making, choosing the best cardstock can elevate your DIY endeavors. But with so many choices out there, how do you decide which ones are truly the best for your needs? Let’s explore some top contenders.

Neenah Astrodesigns Cardstock Pack 8.5X11 72/Pkg – 18 Bold & Vivid Colors

If you’re looking for vibrant colors and versatility in your crafting projects, the Neenah Astrodesigns Cardstock Pack is an excellent choice for you. With 72 sheets in 18 bold colors, this 65 lb cardstock offers a smooth finish perfect for all your creative endeavors. Whether you’re cutting, folding, or gluing, its reliable performance shines through, making it suitable for card making, scrapbooking, and school projects. Plus, it works seamlessly with Cricut machines. Priced competitively, this pack provides great value, especially when on sale, earning an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars from thousands of satisfied customers.

Best For: Crafters of all skill levels who need vibrant, versatile cardstock for a variety of projects.

Pros:

  • High-quality smooth finish that enhances color vibrancy.
  • Compatible with Cricut machines, making it ideal for detailed cuts and designs.
  • Great value for money, especially when purchased on sale.

Cons:

  • Some users reported issues with speckled sheets.
  • May experience jamming in certain printers during printing.
  • Not the thickest cardstock available, which may limit its use for heavier projects.

White Cardstock 8.5 x 11 for Printing and Crafts (30 Sheets)

White Cardstock 8.5 x 11 for Printing and Crafts is the perfect choice for artists, educators, and DIY enthusiasts who value quality and versatility. With its heavyweight 230 GSM, this smooth matte cardstock provides a sturdy base for your projects. You’ll love its double-sided design, which works well with markers, pens, and pencils. Ideal for printing vibrant images, it’s compatible with most multifunction printers, making it a great option for brochures, invitations, and scrapbooking. Plus, with 30 sheets in one package, you’ve got plenty of material to release your creativity and tackle multiple projects with ease.

Best For: Artists, educators, and DIY enthusiasts looking for high-quality, versatile cardstock for their creative projects.

Pros:

  • High-quality 230 GSM weight ensures durability and a professional feel for various projects.
  • Double-sided matte finish allows for smooth writing and printing, suitable for various art supplies.
  • 30 sheets per package provides ample material for multiple creative endeavors.

Cons:

  • Not all printers may support 85 lb cardstock, so compatibility should be checked before use.
  • Limited color options as it only comes in white, which may not suit all project needs.
  • May be too thick for certain applications, such as standard document printing where lighter paper is preferred.

25 Sheets Brown Cardstock 8.5 x 11 for Crafts and DIY Cards

Looking for high-quality cardstock that meets all your crafting needs? The 25 sheets of brown cardstock, measuring 8.5 x 11 inches and weighing 92lb/250gsm, are perfect for your DIY cards and crafts. Made from durable double-side matte kraft paper, it guarantees excellent print results while being compatible with inkjet and laser printers. You’ll love how easy it is to score, cut, and fold, making it ideal for tags, bookmarks, and greeting cards. With a stellar rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, this cardstock will elevate your projects and inspire your creativity. Get crafting today!

Best For: Crafters, artists, and DIY enthusiasts looking for high-quality cardstock for a variety of projects.

Pros:

  • High weight (92lb/250gsm) provides durability and a premium feel.
  • Compatible with both inkjet and laser printers for versatile printing options.
  • Excellent for a range of creative applications including cards, tags, and bookmarks.

Cons:

  • May not be compatible with all printers; users should check their printer’s specifications.
  • Limited color options available since it’s only brown cardstock.
  • Slightly higher cost compared to standard paper options.

Ftumertly 40 Sheets Colored Cardstock (20 Assorted Colors)

The Ftumertly 40 Sheets Colored Cardstock is perfect for crafters of all skill levels, offering a vibrant selection of 20 colors that can elevate any project. Each sheet measures 8.5 x 11 inches and boasts a sturdy 180gsm weight, ensuring durability and fade-resistance. You’ll appreciate its compatibility with most inkjet and laser printers for stunning, professional-quality prints. With no white core, you’ll enjoy clean, seamless edges for all your creations. Whether you’re making cards, scrapbooking, or decorating for a party, this cardstock meets your needs with ease. Plus, enjoy the peace of mind with a 30-day return guarantee.

Best For: Crafters, teachers, and DIY enthusiasts looking for vibrant and durable cardstock for various creative projects.

Pros:

  • High-quality 180gsm weight provides durability and fade resistance.
  • Offers a wide variety of 20 vibrant colors, perfect for diverse crafting needs.
  • Compatible with most inkjet and laser printers for professional-grade prints.

Cons:

  • Some users reported inconsistencies in thickness among sheets.
  • Limited availability as it was first listed on October 21, 2024.
  • May not suit those looking for specialty cardstock options.

Colored Cardstock 20 Sheets A4 Size for Craft and Scrapbooking

For crafters and scrapbookers seeking vibrant materials, the Colored Cardstock 20 Sheets A4 Size set is a fantastic choice. This assortment features a variety of colors like green, blue, pink, and red, perfect for any project. At 200GSM, it’s thick and durable, ensuring your creations won’t fade or break easily. You’ll love how the fully dyed sheets provide clean edges when cut or folded. Whether you’re making greeting cards or party decorations, this cardstock stimulates creativity and is suitable for both kids and adults. Plus, it’s printer-friendly, making it easy to personalize your crafts. Enjoy endless possibilities!

Best For: Crafters, scrapbookers, and educators looking for vibrant, durable cardstock for a variety of creative projects.

Pros:

  • High-quality 200GSM weight ensures durability and resistance to fading.
  • Fully dyed sheets provide clean edges for professional-looking cuts and folds.
  • Versatile for various applications, from card making to educational games.

Cons:

  • Some users reported size discrepancies with the A4 measurements.
  • Limited color range may not satisfy those seeking more unique shades.
  • Certain projects may require multiple packs for larger tasks, increasing cost.

OcePor 96 Sheets Colored Cardstock (Assorted Colors)

Craft enthusiasts will appreciate the OcePor 96 Sheets Colored Cardstock, which offers an impressive array of 24 vibrant colors, making it perfect for various creative projects. Each sheet measures 8.5 x 11 inches and boasts a sturdy 200gsm thickness, ensuring durability. With no white core, your cuts and folds will always look crisp and professional. Whether you’re scrapbooking, creating greeting cards, or crafting holiday decorations, this cardstock’s versatility shines. It’s easy to cut, punch, print, and even emboss, making it compatible with Cricut machines. Plus, with Amazon’s return policy, you can shop confidently.

Best For: Craft enthusiasts looking for high-quality, vibrant cardstock for their creative projects.

Pros:

  • Wide Color Variety: 24 vibrant colors provide endless creative possibilities.
  • Durable Thickness: 200gsm cardstock ensures strength and longevity for various projects.
  • Versatile Usability: Easily compatible with cutting machines and perfect for a range of crafting applications.

Cons:

  • Limited Quantity of Each Color: Only 4 sheets per color may not be sufficient for larger projects.
  • No White Core: While this can be a benefit, some crafters may prefer a white core for specific techniques.
  • Weight Consideration: At 200gsm, it may not be suitable for all printing applications, especially for lighter projects.

Brown 85lb Kraft Cardstock – 8.5 x 11 (25 Sheets)

Brown 85lb Kraft Cardstock is perfect for anyone who loves creating high-quality projects, from scrapbook enthusiasts to DIY party planners. With 25 sheets of heavyweight cardstock measuring 8.5 x 11 inches, you’ll enjoy a smooth, elegant surface that’s acid-free and archival safe. This cardstock works beautifully with inkjet, laser, and copier printers, making it versatile for all your crafting needs. Use it for scrapbooking, favor boxes, or Christmas cards, and trust its sturdy quality to elevate your designs. Plus, it comes in exquisite packaging to guarantee safe transit and easy storage. Get ready to release your creativity!

Best For: Anyone looking to create high-quality crafts, cards, and scrapbook projects with a durable and versatile cardstock.

Pros:

  • High-quality, heavyweight 85lb cardstock provides a sturdy base for various projects.
  • Compatible with inkjet, laser, and copier printers, allowing for easy printing of designs.
  • Acid-free and archival safe, ensuring that creations last without fading or damage.

Cons:

  • Some customers reported issues with bent corners upon delivery.
  • Limited to a single color option, which may not suit all project themes.
  • Heavier weight may not be compatible with all printers, requiring checks on printer specifications.

Kraft Paper Cardstock for Arts and Crafts (70 Sheets)

If you’re looking for a versatile and reliable option for your next project, the Kraft Paper Cardstock (70 sheets) is an excellent choice. With its 180GSM high-quality material, you’ll appreciate the strength and durability that this natural kraft color cardstock offers. The smooth finish makes it perfect for creating card tags, invitations, or even personalized art pieces. This cardstock is ideal for various occasions, from parties to small business needs. Rated 4.6 stars by users, it’s praised for its thickness and sturdiness, ensuring your DIY projects turn out beautifully every time. Get ready to release your creativity!

Best For: Those looking for high-quality cardstock for arts and crafts projects, including invitations, scrapbooking, and DIY creations.

Pros:

  • High Durability: Made from 180GSM material, ensuring strength for various projects.
  • Smooth Finish: Ideal surface for drawing, cutting, and crafting without any impurities.
  • Versatile Use: Suitable for a wide range of applications, from business cards to holiday greeting cards.

Cons:

  • Limited Color Options: Only available in natural kraft color, which may not suit all preferences.
  • Sheet Size Fixed: The 8.5 x 11 inches size may not accommodate larger projects without additional cutting.
  • Single Material Type: Lacks variety in paper types, which may limit creative options for some users.

BEST PAPER GREETINGS 48-Pack Kraft Paper Sheets for Wedding

For wedding planners and DIY enthusiasts looking to add a personal touch to their big day, the BEST PAPER GREETINGS 48-Pack Kraft Paper Sheets is an excellent choice. These letter-sized (8.5 x 11 inches) brown cardstock sheets are perfect for creating personalized invitations, announcements, and signage. With a weight of 120 gsm, they’re durable enough for various crafts and projects. They’re printer-compatible, allowing you to customize designs easily. While some users noted initial curling and compared the thickness to regular printer paper, the overall versatility and quality have earned this pack an impressive 4.5-star rating from satisfied customers.

Best For: Wedding planners and DIY enthusiasts looking to create personalized invitations and crafts.

Pros:

  • Versatile for various occasions such as weddings, birthdays, and holidays.
  • Compatible with both inkjet and laser printers for easy customization.
  • Durable enough for crafting projects, holding up well during use.

Cons:

  • Some users reported initial curling issues with the sheets.
  • Thickness may be thinner than expected, resembling regular printer paper.
  • A few customers experienced challenges with achieving desired print quality.

Astrodesigns Crafting Cardstock, 12 x 12, 10-Color Assortment (100 Sheets)

Astrodesigns Crafting Cardstock is the perfect choice for DIY enthusiasts and crafters who demand high-quality materials for their projects. With its 12 x 12-inch size and 65 lb weight, this cardstock offers durability and versatility. You’ll receive 100 sheets in a vibrant 10-color assortment, perfect for scrapbooking, greeting cards, and more. Plus, it’s lignin and acid-free, ensuring your creations won’t yellow over time. Compatible with most electronic cutting machines and printers, this cardstock meets all your crafting needs. Best of all, Astrodesigns is committed to sustainability, making it a responsible choice for your creative endeavors.

Best For: DIY enthusiasts and crafters seeking high-quality, versatile cardstock for various creative projects.

Pros:

  • Thick and durable cardstock (65 lb/176 gsm) ensures long-lasting results.
  • Vibrant 10-color assortment adds creativity and variety to your projects.
  • Lignin and acid-free properties prevent yellowing, preserving your artwork over time.

Cons:

  • Some users may find the 12 x 12-inch size limiting for larger projects.
  • Limited to a specific color assortment, which may not suit everyone’s preferences.
  • Higher weight may not be compatible with all printers or cutting machines without adjustments.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Cardstock Paper for Crafts

When you’re choosing cardstock paper for your crafts, you’ll want to evaluate several key factors. Think about the weight and thickness, as this affects how sturdy your projects will be. Also, take into account color variety, surface finish, and whether it’s compatible with your printer for the best results.

Weight and Thickness

Choosing the right cardstock weight and thickness is essential for successful crafting. Cardstock weight is typically measured in pounds (lb) or grams per square meter (gsm), with common weights ranging from 65 lb (176 gsm) to 110 lb (300 gsm). For projects needing sturdiness, like card making or photo albums, opt for heavier cardstock, such as 85 lb (230 gsm) or 92 lb (250 gsm). If you’re working on scrapbooking or layering, thinner cardstock around 65 lb (176 gsm) to 70 lb (190 gsm) offers better flexibility and ease of use. Remember, heavier cardstock holds ink better, providing sharper prints, while lightweight options work well for simple projects. Consider your project’s needs to choose the best fit!

Color Variety

A wide variety of colors can greatly enhance your crafting experience, as it opens up endless creative possibilities. You can choose from bold, vivid shades to soft pastels, making it easy to match your projects to specific themes or aesthetics. Many cardstock packs offer up to 24 distinct colors, which allows you to mix and match for diverse crafting needs like card making, scrapbooking, and party decorations. Opt for fully dyed paper without a white core to achieve seamless edges in your finished crafts. Assorted color packs often include multiple sheets of each color, ensuring you have enough for larger projects. Finally, look for vibrant colors that are fade-resistant to keep your creations looking fresh over time.

Surface Finish

The surface finish of cardstock plays an essential role in your crafting projects, influencing both aesthetics and functionality. If you’re looking for crisp printing and vibrant colors, smooth finishes are your best bet. They allow ink to absorb well, enhancing detail in your designs. On the other hand, textured cardstock adds depth and visual interest, perfect for items like greeting cards or invitations where tactile appeal matters. Consider finishes like matte, which minimizes glare for easy reading, versus glossy, which can make colors pop but may reflect light. Ultimately, your choice should align with the intended use; smooth for detailed prints and textured for decorative crafts will yield the best results.

Printer Compatibility

When working with cardstock for your crafts, printer compatibility becomes a key factor that can make or break your project. First, check your printer’s manual to see its weight limits; most can handle cardstock up to 80 lb (216 GSM), while some may accommodate heavier options. Be cautious, as thicker cardstock over 85 lb (230 GSM) can cause jams. Opt for a smooth finish to guarantee better ink absorption and sharper images, reducing smudging risks. Additionally, choose acid-free and lignin-free cardstock to prevent yellowing and fading. Finally, always conduct a test print on a small sheet to confirm compatibility and print quality before diving into larger projects. This step can save you time and frustration in the long run.

Durability and Longevity

Choosing the right cardstock for your crafts is essential for guaranteeing your projects last. Durability is often linked to the weight of the cardstock; heavier options, like 85 lb or 230 GSM, resist tearing and bending better. Look for acid-free materials to prevent yellowing, especially for keepsakes or scrapbooks. The finish also matters—smooth surfaces absorb ink well and reduce smudging, while textured finishes may wear more quickly. Ascertain the cardstock can handle various techniques, like cutting and gluing, to maintain its integrity. Finally, opt for lignin-free compositions to avoid degradation and discoloration, especially in light or moisture-prone environments. Making these choices will elevate your crafting experience and enhance the longevity of your projects.

Sheet Quantity

Crafting projects can be both rewarding and economical, especially when you take sheet quantity into account. When selecting cardstock, consider purchasing larger packs, as they often provide better value for frequent projects. Packs with 30 sheets or more can support multiple creations, reducing the need for constant repurchase. If you’re working on bulk projects, opt for quantities like 72 or 96 sheets to guarantee color consistency across your crafts. A higher sheet count can lower your cost per sheet, making it a smart choice for both hobbyists and professionals. Always assess your project needs to find the right balance between bulk availability and storage space. This way, you’ll have plenty of cardstock on hand when creativity strikes!

Price and Value

Finding the right cardstock paper involves balancing price and value to guarantee your crafting budget stretches further. Start by checking the price per sheet; bulk packages, like a 72-sheet pack, often offer better savings than smaller quantities. Keep an eye out for sales and discounts, as these can greatly cut costs. Don’t forget to take into account the weight of the cardstock; heavier options (230 GSM or 250 GSM) may cost more upfront but provide enhanced durability and versatility. Evaluate the quality and finish, too—premium cardstock tends to have smoother textures and vibrant colors, elevating your projects. Finally, read user reviews; high ratings typically indicate that a slightly higher price can deliver better performance and satisfaction.