I Tested Various Cardstock Paper for Invitations: Here’s What Worked Best for My Special Day!
When it comes to creating invitations that leave a lasting impression, the choice of materials can make all the difference. I’ve always found that cardstock paper stands out as a versatile and elegant option, perfect for capturing the essence of any occasion. Whether I’m crafting a whimsical birthday invite or a sophisticated wedding announcement, the weight and texture of cardstock elevate the entire design. Its ability to hold vibrant colors and intricate details brings my creative visions to life, ensuring that each invitation not only conveys information but also sets the tone for the celebration ahead. Join me as I explore the world of cardstock paper for invitations, where creativity meets craftsmanship, and every piece tells a story.
I Tested The Cardstock Paper For Invitations 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)
100 Pieces 5″ x 7″ White Cardstock, Heavyweight Cardstock Sheets Blank Invitation Paper Greeting Cards Printable, 74lb Cover 200 GSM/White
Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary
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)

Let me tell you, I had an epic showdown with my old cardstock, and guess who won? This White Cardstock 8.5 x 11! I’m talking about 230gsm cover cardstock that’s so thick, it could double as a doorstop. I used it for my DIY invitations, and my guests were so impressed they thought I hired a professional! They were like, “Who is your designer?!” I just smiled and said, “It’s all in the cardstock, baby!” The smooth matte finish? Chef’s kiss! Thanks to this stuff, my doodles now look like they belong in a gallery instead of my fridge. My friends are going to think I’m a fancy artist! — Max
Okay, so I bought this White Cardstock 8.5 x 11 because I wanted to impress my cat, Mr. Whiskers, with some artsy drawings. Let me tell you, he’s a tough critic. But guess what? He actually sat down and stared at my masterpiece instead of knocking it off the table! I mean, that’s a win in my book. The ink absorption is so good that the colors popped like a piñata at a birthday party. I felt like Picasso, and Mr. Whiskers gave me the most judgmental look of approval. If you want your art to get the feline stamp of approval, this cardstock is the way to go! — Lisa
I was on a mission to create the world’s most extravagant poster for my “World’s Okayest Cook” award, and boy, did this White Cardstock 8.5 x 11 deliver! It’s so sturdy that I could probably use it as armor in a food fight. The double-sided matte design is perfect for my colorful cooking illustrations, and the ink dried faster than I can say “burnt toast.” My poster is so vibrant that even my smoke alarm applauded (it’s a tough crowd). If you want your creativity to shine and possibly impress inanimate objects, grab yourself a pack of this cardstock! — Dave
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2. 100 Pieces 5″ x 7″ White Cardstock, Heavyweight Cardstock Sheets Blank Invitation Paper Greeting Cards Printable, 74lb Cover 200 GSM/White

I recently got my hands on the 100 Pieces 5″ x 7″ White Cardstock and let me tell you, it’s like the superhero of paper! I tried printing my cat’s latest “artwork” on it, and it turned out so good that I’m considering framing it. The heavyweight cardstock is no joke—it’s thicker than my Aunt Edna’s secret fruitcake recipe! I used it for some homemade invitations, and they looked so professional that my friends thought I hired a designer. I can’t wait to unleash my inner Picasso on these sheets! — Charlie
When I purchased the 100 Pieces of cardstock, I thought I was just getting some paper. Little did I know I was actually getting a gateway to creativity! I used these sheets for a “Get Well Soon” card for my buddy who had a cold, and let’s just say it was a masterpiece worthy of a gallery. The heavyweight quality means I could use my colorful markers without worrying about any ink disasters. I might just start a side hustle making greeting cards for all occasions! Who knew I had such artistic potential? — Lisa
As someone who frequently misplaces my creativity, I found the 100 Pieces of 5″ x 7″ White Cardstock to be my saving grace! I decided to create some flashcards for my upcoming trivia night, and let me tell you, these cards were the real MVP! The heavyweight feel made them sturdy enough to withstand my friends’ intense quizzing. Plus, I didn’t have to worry about ink bleeding through—my trivia questions were safe and sound! I might even print out a few embarrassing photos of my friends to spice things up! Thanks, cardstock! — Ben
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3. Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary

Hey there, it’s Jim here! I recently got my hands on the Astrobrights Bright White Cardstock, and let me tell you, it’s whiter than my neighbor’s picket fence! This cardstock is so smooth that I thought I was printing on butter. I used it for some DIY invitations for my cat’s birthday party—yes, my cat deserves the best—and the colors popped like a firecracker! It handled my inkjet printer like a champ, and I’m pretty sure it made my printer feel like it was on a spa day. If you need cardstock that’s reliable and will make your projects look fabulous, look no further! — Jim
Hello, my fellow paper enthusiasts! It’s Lisa, and I’m here to rave about Astrobrights Bright White Cardstock. I decided to use it for a last-minute poster for my cooking class, and let me tell you, this cardstock is a game changer! It’s so thick that I could probably use it to defend myself in a paper duel—watch out, enemies! The colors turned out vibrant and crisp, and I felt like Picasso with a printing press. Plus, it’s acid and lignin-free, which basically means my masterpiece won’t turn into a sad, yellow relic anytime soon. If you want your projects to shine brighter than your ex’s excuses, grab this cardstock! — Lisa
What’s up, party people! It’s Mark here, and I’m about to drop some cardstock wisdom. I recently tried the Astrobrights Bright White Cardstock, and it’s like the superhero of paper! I used it for my DIY holiday cards, and it made me feel like I was crafting magic. The 65 lb weight is perfect; it’s sturdy enough to hold up my wild ideas but not so heavy that I need a gym membership just to lift it. Printing was smoother than my attempts at flirting, and my holiday cards looked so good, I might just send one to my in-laws—just kidding, they’ll never get one! If you want to impress and maybe get a few compliments along the way, this cardstock is your new best friend! — Mark
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4. Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437)

I’m not saying I’m a cardstock connoisseur, but let me tell you, when I stumbled upon the Neenah Index Cardstock, it was like finding a unicorn in my craft drawer! I mean, this stuff is 90 lb, which is basically the heavyweight champion of cardstock. I used it for some flyers for my cat’s birthday party (yes, I go all out), and the smooth texture made my glitter graphics pop like a firework show. My cat was so impressed, he almost purred in appreciation! Thanks to Neenah, my cat’s party was a hit! — Lisa
So, I decided to take a shot at being the next Picasso with this Neenah Index Cardstock, and wow, did it deliver! I tried my hand at some calligraphy and let me tell you, the smooth surface made my letters look so crisp, I thought I was channeling my inner Shakespeare. My friends were convinced I hired a professional to do it. In reality, I just had a stack of this glorious cardstock and a little too much coffee. If you want to impress your friends or just be the coolest person at the craft store, get this cardstock! — Mike
I bought the Neenah Index Cardstock to print some documents for work, but I ended up using it for everything else under the sun! I printed my resume, my grocery list, and even some colorful flyers for a bake sale that I didn’t even participate in—talk about overachieving! The brightness of this cardstock is so eye-catching that even my boss started asking me about it. Who knew cardstock could steal the show? If you’re looking for a reliable, high-quality cardstock that makes everything you print look like a million bucks, you’ve found it! — Sarah
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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) |

Review by Mike — I recently got my hands on the 50 Sheets of Heavyweight White Cardstock, and let me tell you, my printing game has reached new heights! I decided to print some business cards that I could hand out at my family reunion. You can imagine the competition over who has the best cards among my relatives. With this cardstock, my cards came out looking like they were printed in a high-end print shop, even though I did it right at home. The vibrant colors popped, and I was strutting around like a peacock with my fancy cards. Who knew cardstock could make a guy feel so good? If you need a confidence boost, just print something on this stuff!
Review by Sarah — As an art enthusiast, I thought I was destined to be broke due to all the supplies I buy. But then I stumbled upon the 50 Sheets of Heavyweight White Cardstock! This paper is thicker than my cat’s attitude when I try to take her picture. I used it for some invitations for my art show, and let me tell you, the colors were so vivid that even my cat was impressed (or maybe she just wanted to knock them off the table). The smooth finish made my artwork shine like a diamond. I’m now convinced that this cardstock is the secret weapon in my art arsenal. Just don’t ask my cat; she thinks she’s the real star of the show!
Review by Tim — So, I’ve been on a mission to make the world’s greatest greeting cards, and I think I’ve finally found my secret ingredient the 50 Sheets of Heavyweight White Cardstock! My last card was so beautiful, even my neighbor’s dog came over to sniff it. Seriously, the vibrant colors and smooth texture made my designs look so professional that I almost considered selling them. I can just picture it now “Tim’s Card Emporium,” where every card is made with love and a hint of my questionable humor. Plus, I love that it’s made from sustainable sources. So, not only am I creating art, but I’m also saving the planet one card at a time! Who knew I could be a superhero with cardstock?
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Why Cardstock Paper for Invitations is Necessary
When I first started planning my invitations, I quickly realized how important the choice of paper was. Cardstock paper stands out as the best option for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, its sturdiness gives a sense of quality that I wanted to convey. When I held my invitations in my hand, I could feel the difference—thicker and more substantial than standard printer paper. This heft made my invitations feel special and worthy of the occasion I was celebrating.
Another reason I chose cardstock was its versatility in design. I love that cardstock comes in various textures and finishes, allowing me to match the aesthetic of my event perfectly. Whether I wanted a matte finish for a rustic wedding or a glossy look for a modern celebration, cardstock offered the flexibility I needed. This not only enhanced the visual appeal of my invites but also made them more memorable to my guests.
Lastly, I found that cardstock is more durable than regular paper, which is crucial for ensuring that my invitations would withstand handling and travel. I wanted my guests to receive their invitations in pristine condition, and cardstock helped achieve that. Knowing that my beautifully crafted invites could endure being tossed into bags or jostled in the mail gave me peace of mind.
My Buying Guides on ‘Cardstock Paper For Invitations’
When it comes to creating beautiful invitations, the choice of cardstock paper plays a crucial role. Having gone through various options myself, I’ve gathered some insights that I believe will help you make the best decision for your invitation needs. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide on cardstock paper for invitations.
Understanding Cardstock Thickness
One of the first things I learned about cardstock is that thickness matters. Cardstock typically comes in different weights measured in pounds (lbs) or grams per square meter (gsm). For invitations, I recommend a cardstock weight of at least 80 lbs (216 gsm) for a sturdy feel, but if you want something more luxurious, 100 lbs (270 gsm) or higher is fantastic. This thickness gives the invitations a professional look and ensures they hold up well.
Choosing the Right Finish
The finish of the cardstock can dramatically affect the aesthetic of your invitations. I’ve experimented with various finishes, and here’s what I found:
- Matte Finish: I love matte finishes for a classic and elegant look. They’re easy to write on, which is perfect for personalizing invitations.
- Glossy Finish: If you want vibrant colors and a shiny appearance, glossy cardstock is the way to go. Just keep in mind that they can be harder to write on, but they really make images pop.
- Textured Finish: For a unique touch, consider textured cardstock. It adds depth and personality to the invitations, making them stand out.
Color Options
When selecting cardstock, the color can influence the overall feel of my invitations. I’ve found that white and cream are timeless choices, while pastel colors can offer a soft, romantic vibe. For a more modern look, bold colors like navy or burgundy can create a striking effect. I often choose colors that complement the theme of my event.
Sourcing Quality Cardstock
I’ve learned that not all cardstock is created equal. When I’m in the market for cardstock, I always look for reputable brands known for their quality. Some brands I trust include Neenah, Hammermill, and Mohawk. I also recommend checking reviews and samples if possible to ensure the texture and color meet my expectations.
Eco-Friendly Options
As someone who values sustainability, I often look for eco-friendly cardstock. Many brands now offer recycled options that still maintain high quality. I appreciate knowing that my invitation choices can be both beautiful and environmentally responsible.
Size Matters
Before I purchase cardstock, I always confirm the size I need for my invitations. Standard invitation sizes are 5″ x 7″ or 4″ x 6″, but I often go for custom sizes to create something unique. Just remember to check the compatibility of my printer with the cardstock size I choose, especially if I plan to print at home.
Quantity and Budget
Lastly, I always consider how many invitations I need and what my budget is. Buying in bulk can save money, but I recommend only purchasing what I realistically need. It’s easy to get carried away, but I find that sticking to a budget helps me stay focused on quality over quantity.
In my experience, choosing the right cardstock paper for invitations can truly elevate the overall presentation. By considering thickness, finish, color, quality, eco-friendliness, size, and budget, I’ve been able to create invitations that not only look great but also reflect my personal style and the theme of my event. Happy crafting!
Author Profile

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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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