Cardstock is a refined paper material which is thicker and durable. This material is lightweight and has various types. This smooth paper material is categorized into various types on the basis of material size, thickness, weight, texture, and finishes.
When at first reading this word cardstock, most probably the first and foremost thing most likely to come in your mind would be cards. But in this blog you will get to know of various other products made from this cardstock, other than just the greeting cards or business cards.
Read this blog to learn of all the commonly used paper products, which you might have not paid attention to before!
But what is Cardstock?
And what is a cardstock paper? Let’s clarify this confusion right away. The terms cardstock and cardstock paper are the interchangeable terms, which essentially mean the same. Cardstock is a general term for a thicker, more durable type of paper that is commonly used for various projects like greeting cards, invitations, and business cards: the term cardstock describes the comparatively higher thickness and durability of the paper than your regular paper.
Whereas the term cardstock paper is just a more descriptive way referring to the same thing, but focusing more on the material of the paper.
Cardstock
As already mentioned above, cardstock is essentially a paper material. But then, what is the difference between cardstock and regular paper? The difference mainly lies in thickness and durability. Cardstock is sturdier, thicker, and has more durability than the regular paper. On the other hand, regular paper is thinner, and has higher flexibility than cardstock.
What is a Cardstock Made of?
Cardstock is made of wood pulp, which contains hardwood, softwood fibers and fillers. Hardwood gives proper structure to the paper, while softwood adds strength. Fillers offer brightness and opacity, giving a finished look to the card stock.
Various Uses of Cardstock
Ever wondered what is cardstock used for? It is used to make a number of lightweight paper objects, essentially used in everyday life. The main purpose and use consists of cardstock for business cards. But, in general, any paper product which requires more durability, and is designed to last longer, is preferably made from cardstock.
The durable paper products made to last longer include but are not limited to the following:
- Menus
- Postcards
- Gift Tags
- Greeting Cards
- Business Cards
- Catalog Covers
- Bookmarks
- Event Invitations
- Scrapbook Pages
- Playing Cards
Types of Cardstocks
Cardstock offers versatility in types, varying on the basis of sizes, textures, weight/thickness, finishes, and colors. Different types are discussed below:
-
Types on the Basis of Varying Sizes
Cardstock thickness is measured in points or GSM. Higher the points or GSM, thicker would be the cardstock. For example, cardstock for business cards is personalized into different sizes, but all these sizes are particularly crafted to get easily fit into a business envelope.
Some commonly used cardstock sizes are:
- 6” x 6”
- 8” x 8”
- 8.5” x 11”
- 12” x 12”
Out of these four types, 8.5” x 11” is the standard size cardstock paper, which is used to make handmade cards. And the 12” x 12” is the standard size for scrapbook layouts.
-
Types on the Base of Textures
Texture plays an important role in crafting the well-rounded and refined card products, having aesthetic elements added. Here are the most common types of cardstocks based on textures.
Four types based on light reflection:
- Smooth
- Metallic
- Glossy
- Glitter
And nine types based on the material finish:
- Parchment
- Linen
- Felt
- Cotton Cardstock
- Vellum
- Woodgrain Cardstock
- Kraft
- Rough
- Natural
-
Types Categorized on the Basis of Weights/Thickness
Cardstock weight refers to how heavy or thick the paper is. Some of the most common card stock paper weights include:
- 65 lb. cardstock: It is used to make tickets, greeting cards, scrapbooking paper, greeting cards, postcards
- 80 lb. cardstock: It is a standard cardstock weight, which is used to make business cards, invitations, table tents, crafts, folders.
- 100 lb. cardstock: It is used to make gift tags, luxury business cards, flat cards.
- 110 lb. cardstock: It is used to make certificates, menus, awards, report covers.
Learn more about the standard card stock weight in GSM and what is the most preferred use of these cardstocks:
- 350-450 GSM: Often used for business cards, handmade cards, and invitation cards.
- 210-300 GSM: Often used for magazine covers, paintings, and high-quality flyers.
- 120-140 GSM: Often used for movie posters, product posters, promotional posters, etc.
- 90-100 GSM: Often used for most types of household printer paper.
- 75-90 GSM: Often used for sketch pads or notebooks.
-
Types Categorized on the Basis of Finishes
Solely based on different finishes given to the cardstock, following are different types of cardstocks. Depending on whatever the way you like it, if you want to have the cardstock shimmery like, or whether you prefer the printed card stock in matte finished look, you can always opt for it.
- Glossy
- Matte
- Textured
- Recycled
- Smooth
- Glossy
- Satin
- Embossed
- Iridescent
- Coated
- Frosted
- Pearl
- Metallic
- Cockle
-
Types on the Basis of Colors
Decorative cardstock sets often come in a variety of colors. Cardstock customized into various enchanting vibrant colors are perfect for layered die-cuts and themed paper crafts.
Benefits of Using Cardstock/Benefits Offered by the Cardstock
Due to their durable nature, greater thickness, and long lasting design, cardstocks offer various benefits, resulting in enhanced convenience while using the products. Some of these benefits are:
- Enhanced Durability
- Premium Appearance/Exclusive Appeal
- Flexibly Customized
- Better Color and Ink Absorption
Conclusion
As discussed above, cardstock is found in various types and can be customized into well refined finished looks. Make sure you explore types of cardstock in detail so you can use the paper material to the fullest potential. Still not clear about cardstocks? Contact us today to get all your queries answered.
