Cardstock and paper stock are often used interchangeably. They are both paper, but the slight differences can change how your designs print and how long they last. Certain paper types work best for different prints; after all, no one wants to hand out flimsy business cards or try to fold a bulky letterhead. Selecting the right paper is a crucial part of the customization process.
When people think of prints, paper is the first thing that comes to mind. That’s why, at GotPrint, we use paper stock as our catch-all description. This helps smooth the customization process, as people know they’re personalizing their paper materials. But some designers want to understand the nitty-gritty of all things paper. To help you make informed decisions on your prints, here’s how you can break down the differences between paper stock and cardstock.
What is Paper Stock?
Paper stock is a thin paper material used for printing. The title typically covers any paper that is printed on, though it can also more specifically refer to the lighter stocks. For paper stock, the paper thickness, or basis weight, is measured in pounds based on the weight of 500 sheets of paper. A high basis paper weight indicates a thicker piece of paper. Most people use this thin paper material for brochures, flyers, and catalogs.
- 70 lb. – As our thinnest paper, this is often used for stationery and mail, like letters, envelopes, and notepads. The opaque smooth white paper is compatible with most Laser and Inkjet printers.
- 80 lb. – This thin paper is available as 80 lb. Gloss Book and 80 lb. Matte Text, so you can choose between a glossy and matte finish. This paper is great for lightweight pages in catalogs, calendars, and booklets.
- 100 lb. – Our thickest paper stock, this smooth, lightweight paper is available in 100 lb. Gloss Book, 100 lb. Gloss Cover, and 100 lb. Matte Cover. This paper weight adds a touch of luxury to any of the products mentioned above.
What is Cardstock?
Cardstock is a thick paper that still has some flexibility. It’s firmer than a piece of printer paper and not as flimsy. The rigidity makes it ideal for prints that will be used regularly, as the heavy-duty paper resists bends and tears. That is why cardstock is used for business cards, postcards, and greeting cards. You want heavy-duty paper for stationery that will pass through the mailing process, which is why it is excellent postcard paper. If you’re wondering what weight is cardstock or how thick is cardstock , it is typically available in several options. It is measured in points (pt.) based on the thickness of one piece of paper. A higher point number indicates a thicker piece of paper, and each point is 1/1000th of an inch. For example, a 16 pt. paper has a 0.016 inch thickness.
- 14 pt – The standard cardstock paper for business cards, hang tags, and bookmarks, this size is available in 14 pt. Gloss Cover and 14 pt. Uncoated. The gloss paper prints with a UV Coating for extra protection.
- 16 pt – The 16 pt. Premium Matte paper stock is durable yet still affordable. This paper is perfect for adding Raised UV or Raised Foil design elements on wedding invites and greeting cards.
What is Premium Cardstock?
At GotPrint, our luxury paper stocks combine thick paper with a high-end finish. Whether you’re sending invitations for a black-tie event or just handing out luxe business cards, a deluxe print product will leave a lasting first impression. Most of our premium paper stocks have a special finish, whether it’s the glimmering Pearl or the velvet touch Trifecta.
- 13 pt – GotPrint’s Linen cardstock is a thin, delicate cardstock with a textured surface. Use linen paper for wedding invitations, baby showers, and other personal events.
- 18 pt – Our premium card stocks are available in a variety of finishes, including eco-friendly Premium Kraft recycled paper with a rough texture, shiny Ultra Premium Pearl, and super soft Ultra Premium Smooth White.
- 38 pt – As our thickest paper, our triple-layered Trifecta paper is a true luxury paper stock. It comes with a pop of color in red, blue, or black in the center and has a soft touch.
Sample Paper Stocks
If you’re still not sure which paper will best fit your prints, we’ve got you covered. Order a Free Sample Kit to feel each of our high-end papers. You can compare coated paper and uncoated paper stocks, and you can see how our high-end inks print on cardstock. Once you’ve tested our materials, you can order your custom cardstock prints.