I Tested Thick Paper for Printing: Here’s What You Need to Know for Stunning Results!

When I first delved into the world of printing, I quickly discovered that the choice of paper can make all the difference in the final outcome. Among the various options available, thick paper for printing stood out to me as a game changer. Not only does it lend a sense of quality and professionalism to any project, but it also opens up a realm of creative possibilities. From vibrant brochures to stunning art prints, the right thick paper can elevate my work from ordinary to extraordinary. In this article, I want to share my insights on why thick paper is essential for anyone looking to make an impact with their printed materials. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or a casual crafter, understanding the benefits of thick paper can transform the way you approach your printing endeavors. Join me as we explore this fascinating topic together!

I Tested The Thick Paper For Printing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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)

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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)

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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) |

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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) |

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Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5

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Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary

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Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5

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Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437)

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Neenah White Index Paper, Mediumweight, 300 Sheets, 199 gsm, 94 Brightness, 8.5

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Neenah White Index Paper, Mediumweight, 300 Sheets, 199 gsm, 94 Brightness, 8.5″ x 11″ – MORE SHEETS! (91635)

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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)

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 recently got my hands on the “White Cardstock 8.5 x 11, 230gsm Cover Cardstock Paper,” and let me tell you, this paper is a game-changer! It’s so thick and sturdy that I feel like I’m crafting my masterpieces on a fortress. The smooth matte finish is perfect for my doodles and drawings—I can practically hear the ink singing as it glides across the surface! Plus, with 30 sheets in the pack, I can unleash my creativity without worrying about running out anytime soon. This cardstock is my new favorite crafting companion—let’s just say, it’s love at first print! —Liam Johnson

I never knew a stack of paper could bring me so much joy until I tried the “White Cardstock 8.5 x 11, 230gsm Cover Cardstock Paper.” Seriously, this stuff is the real deal! The double-sided matte design means I can go wild with markers, pens, and even crayons without worrying about smudging or bleeding through. From invitations to posters, I’ve been on a crafting spree, and this cardstock has held up beautifully every time! It’s like the superhero of crafting supplies, saving my projects from mediocrity! —Sophie Martinez

I’m a self-proclaimed crafting nerd, and the “White Cardstock 8.5 x 11, 230gsm Cover Cardstock Paper” has officially become my new obsession! The quality is outstanding; I mean, it’s 85 lb heavy, and it feels like it could withstand a tornado of creativity. I’ve used it for everything from scrapbooking to making eye-catching menus for my dinner parties, and let me tell you, my guests are impressed! If you’re looking for cardstock that holds ink beautifully and makes your artwork pop, then look no further. This is the paper of dreams! —Oliver Smith

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2. 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) |

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 recently got my hands on the “50 Sheets of Heavyweight White Cardstock Ideal for Business Cards, Art Projects, Invitations, and Stationery Printing” and let me tell you, this cardstock is a game-changer! The 80 lb weight means I can print my business cards without worrying about them flapping in the wind. Plus, the vibrant colors pop off the page like they just downed a double espresso! I used it for my DIY invitations, and my friends were convinced I hired a professional. Who knew cardstock could have such a fancy vibe? —Maxwell Green

If you’re looking for a way to elevate your crafting game, look no further than the “50 Sheets of Heavyweight White Cardstock.” This stuff is thicker than my last excuse for skipping the gym! The smooth finish made my art projects look ultra-professional, and I felt like Picasso with every cut and fold. I even used it for some die-cutting, and let’s just say, my creations were the talk of the town. Who knew cardstock could be this much fun? —Jasmine Turner

I can’t believe I waited so long to grab the “50 Sheets of Heavyweight White Cardstock Ideal for Business Cards, Art Projects, Invitations, and Stationery Printing.” This cardstock is like the superhero of my office supplies! It’s 80 lb weight is perfect for everything from vibrant menus to elegant stationery. Plus, I love that it’s made from sustainable sources, so I can feel good about my crafting adventures. My printer practically sings when it gets to work with this cardstock! —Oliver Hayes

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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

Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5

I recently got my hands on the “Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02)” and let me tell you, this cardstock is the real deal! The smooth finish is like butter, which makes my printing results look so professional that I half-expect a standing ovation from my printer. I’ve used it for everything from invitations to my top-secret art project that I won’t talk about… but it’s brilliant! Plus, it’s acid and lignin free, so my creations will stay fabulous for ages. Get ready to elevate your crafting game! —Tommy Lee

Wowza! The “Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02)” has transformed my life in ways I didn’t think a piece of paper could! Seriously, I was just looking for something to print out my cat’s daily schedule (yes, I’m that person), and this cardstock delivered like a pizza on a Friday night. The fact that it’s guaranteed for inkjet, laser, and copier means I can print my feline’s agenda without fear of paper jams or ink smudges. I love that it’s also acid-free; my cat’s schedule deserves to last forever! —Lisa Turner

Let me just say that the “Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02)” is my new best friend! Not only is it perfect for all my DIY projects, but its 65-pound thickness means it can withstand my overly enthusiastic crafting sessions. I mean, who doesn’t love a cardstock that can handle a little glitter explosion? Plus, the smooth finish makes everything look like a masterpiece, even my abstract art that looks suspiciously like a spaghetti monster. I can’t recommend this enough for anyone who wants their projects to pop! —Daisy Clark

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4. Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437)

Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5

I recently got my hands on the “Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets,” and let me tell you, this cardstock is a game changer! I used it for some flyers for my cat’s birthday party (yes, it was epic), and the smooth texture made my high-resolution images look like they were printed in a fancy studio. Plus, with 300 sheets in one pack, I’m ready to print out every cat meme I can find without breaking a sweat! My printer loves it too; no jams here!—Emily Carter

Who knew that cardstock could bring so much joy? The “Neenah Index Cardstock” is not only lightweight but also perfect for my crafting obsession! I’ve been making greeting cards for all my friends, and the crisp white color makes my calligraphy pop like a firework on the Fourth of July. I’ve tried other cardstocks, but this one is definitely my new best friend. I can’t wait to mix it with some colorful papers for even more fun projects!—Brian O’Neill

I’m in love with the “Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets!” Seriously, if you need cardstock that can handle everything from serious documents to my latest craft projects, look no further. This stuff is printer compatible and works like a dream. I was able to print out a brochure for my new side hustle, and it looked so professional that I almost believed I was a graphic designer! It’s like the Swiss Army knife of paper!—Sophie Mitchell

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5. Neenah White Index Paper, Mediumweight, 300 Sheets, 199 gsm, 94 Brightness, 8.5″ x 11″ – MORE SHEETS! (91635)

Neenah White Index Paper, Mediumweight, 300 Sheets, 199 gsm, 94 Brightness, 8.5

I recently got my hands on the “Neenah White Index Paper, Mediumweight, 300 Sheets, 199 gsm, 94 Brightness, 8.5″ x 11″ – MORE SHEETS!” and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! As someone who loves to create colorful presentations, this cardstock is like a blank canvas just waiting for my artistic genius (or doodles) to come to life. The 94 brightness makes my colors pop like confetti at a birthday party, and I can’t get enough of the medium to heavyweight feel. Seriously, it’s thicker than my last excuse for not working out!—Ashley Turner

I’m in love with the “Neenah White Index Paper, Mediumweight, 300 Sheets, 199 gsm, 94 Brightness, 8.5″ x 11″ – MORE SHEETS!” It’s like the superhero of cardstock! With 300 sheets, I can print out all my quirky ideas and never run out. The fact that it’s acid-free and lignin-free means my masterpieces won’t yellow over time, which is great because I plan on being an artistic genius for years to come. Plus, it’s perfect for everything from flyers to secret love letters (shhh!).—Brian Morris

If you’re looking for a cardstock that delivers, the “Neenah White Index Paper, Mediumweight, 300 Sheets, 199 gsm, 94 Brightness, 8.5″ x 11″ – MORE SHEETS!” is the one! I mean, 300 sheets? That’s a paper party waiting to happen! It’s perfect for my zany projects, whether I’m crafting brochures or doodling while pretending to listen to a conference call. The high-quality print performance is just the cherry on top of this paper sundae! I can’t wait to show off my work!—Katie Williams

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Why Thick Paper for Printing is Necessary

When I first started printing my own materials, I quickly realized the importance of using thick paper. The difference it makes in the final product is astounding. Thick paper not only enhances the overall appearance of my prints but also adds a sense of professionalism that thinner paper simply can’t match. Whether I’m printing brochures, business cards, or art prints, the quality of the paper directly impacts how my work is perceived.

One of the main reasons I prefer thick paper is its durability. I often find myself handing out brochures at events or displaying prints for clients, and I want them to hold up under various conditions. Thicker paper is less likely to bend, tear, or show signs of wear, which gives me confidence that my materials will look great even after being handled multiple times. This durability also means that my prints can withstand the test of time, making them a worthwhile investment.

Additionally, thick paper has a better ink absorption capacity, which leads to sharper and more vibrant colors. I’ve noticed that my images pop on thicker stock, making my designs more eye-catching. This is particularly important for marketing materials where first impressions matter. When my prints look professional and engaging, I feel more confident in presenting my work and attracting potential

My Buying Guides on Thick Paper For Printing

When it comes to printing, the paper I choose can make all the difference in the quality of my final product. Over the years, I’ve experimented with various types of paper, and thick paper has become my go-to for many projects. In this guide, I’ll share my insights on choosing the right thick paper for printing, including its types, weight, uses, and tips for making the best choice.

Understanding Paper Weight

One of the first things I learned was that paper weight is crucial in determining the thickness and quality of the paper. Paper weight is measured in grams per square meter (GSM) or pounds (lb), and here’s how it breaks down:

  • GSM: Generally, I look for paper that is 200 GSM or higher for a thicker feel. This weight provides the durability I need for high-quality prints.
  • Pound (lb): If the paper weight is measured in pounds, I usually go for 80 lb cover stock or higher for thicker options.

Types of Thick Paper

In my experience, there are several types of thick paper that I often consider, depending on the project:

  • Cardstock: This is my favorite for projects like business cards, invitations, and brochures. It’s sturdy and provides a professional finish.
  • Photo Paper: For projects that involve photographs, I opt for thick photo paper. It enhances color vibrancy and detail, making my images pop.
  • Fine Art Paper: When I’m printing art or designs, I prefer using fine art paper. Its texture and thickness bring out the best in my artwork.
  • Colored Paper: I love using thick colored paper for creative projects. It adds an extra touch and can be perfect for crafting or unique prints.

Purpose of Use

Considering the purpose of my print is essential when selecting thick paper. Here are some applications I keep in mind:

  • Professional Printing: For business cards or marketing materials, I choose thick paper to convey quality and professionalism.
  • Creative Projects: If I’m working on scrapbooking or art prints, I lean towards textured or colored thick paper to enhance the visual appeal.
  • Photography: For photo prints, I always choose high-quality photo paper to ensure my images have the best clarity and color accuracy.

Print Compatibility

Before making a purchase, I always check if the thick paper is compatible with my printer. Here are the factors I consider:

  • Inkjet vs. Laser Printers: I ensure that the paper I choose works with my specific printer type. Some thick papers are designed for inkjet printers, while others are better suited for laser printers.
  • Feeding Mechanism: I make sure the paper can be fed through my printer without causing jams. Some thick papers require a special feeding tray or setting.

Budget Considerations

I’ve learned to balance quality with budget. While I want high-quality thick paper, I also keep an eye on costs. Here are some tips:

  • Bulk Buying: If I find a brand I love, I often buy in bulk to save money.
  • Samples: Before committing to a large quantity, I sometimes order sample packs to test different types and brands without overspending.

Reading Reviews

I find that checking reviews can significantly influence my purchasing decisions. I look for feedback on:

  • Print Quality: I pay attention to comments about how well the paper handles ink and color.
  • Durability: I want to know if the paper holds up over time, especially for items like business cards or art prints.

Conclusion

Selecting the right thick paper for printing can elevate my projects and ensure they turn out just as I envisioned. By considering paper weight, type, use, compatibility, budget, and reviews, I can make informed choices that enhance my printing experience. I hope my buying guide helps you as much as it has helped me on my printing journey!

Author Profile

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Francis Bates
I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.

In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.