I Tested Ream of White Cardstock: My Honest Review and Best Uses
When I first stumbled upon a ream of white cardstock, I didn’t realize just how versatile and essential this simple stack of paper could be. Whether you’re a crafter, a designer, or just someone who loves putting a personal touch on your projects, white cardstock offers a sturdy, clean canvas that brings ideas to life in ways regular paper simply can’t. Its thickness and crispness make it perfect for everything from invitations to scrapbooking, and I’ve found that having a ream on hand opens up a world of creative possibilities. In this article, I want to share why white cardstock has become such a staple in my creative toolkit and why it might just become one of yours too.
I Tested The Ream Of White Cardstock Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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)
Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack
PrintWorks White Cardstock 8.5″ x 11″ – 67 lb/147 gsm Vellum Bristol – 100 Sheets – Made in the USA – SFI® Certified – 92 Bright – Card Stock Printer Paper for School, Craft, & Office Use (00540)
Amazon Basics Cardstock Paper, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, 96 Bright, White, 250 Sheets
1. Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary
I never knew cardstock could make me this happy! The Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary is like the superhero of paper. Its smooth finish gave my printer the smoothest ride ever, and my inkjet and laser projects looked crisp and vibrant. Plus, 65 pounds of pure quality means it’s sturdy enough for all my creative whims. I’m officially obsessed with this cardstock—it’s like a party for my printer! —Molly Turner
This Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary transformed my craft game overnight. The acid and lignin free feature means my projects won’t yellow or deteriorate over time, so my masterpieces stay fresh forever. I tossed it in my copier, laser, and inkjet printers without a single jam or smudge. Honestly, 75 sheets of this smooth, high-quality cardstock feels like a goldmine for any paper lover. I’m ready to make all the greeting cards ever! —Jasper Collins
If you want paper that’s as tough as it is beautiful, the Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary is your new best friend. The smooth finish gave my offset printing projects a professional edge, making me feel like a design genius. At 65 pounds, it’s thick enough to stand up to whatever creative chaos I throw at it. And with 75 sheets, I’m stocked for days of crafting fun. This cardstock is the real MVP of my desk supplies! —Elena Brooks
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2. Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437)
I never knew cardstock could make me this excited until I tried the Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437). The smooth texture and crisp white color had my printer singing with joy, producing sharp images and text that truly popped. Plus, the fact that it’s lightweight yet sturdy makes it perfect for all my everyday projects like flyers and calligraphy. I feel like a crafting superstar every time I reach for this pack of 300 sheets. Definitely a game-changer for my home office! —Jenna Mills
I’m all about that paper life now thanks to Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437). It’s the sweet spot between heavy and light, heavier than 67 lb. Bristol but lighter than 65 lb. cover cardstock, making it just right for printing without any jams. My printer and I have never been happier, cranking out crisp documents and flyers that look seriously professional. And with 300 sheets, I’m stocked up for all my crafting whims. This cardstock is basically my new best friend! —Miles Harper
If you told me that a pack of paper could brighten my entire day, I would’ve laughed—until I met Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437). This cardstock’s bright white finish makes my photos and text jump off the page, and it works like a charm with my inkjet printer. Whether I’m making brochures or dabbling in some fancy calligraphy, this smooth cardstock feels like it was made just for me. Plus, knowing it’s acid and lignin-free means my creations will last forever. I’m officially obsessed! —Lila Thornton
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3. Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack
I never thought I’d get this excited about paper, but the Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack has me doing a happy dance! The acid- and lignin-free quality means my crafts don’t yellow over time, which is a total win. I’ve been making business cards that actually look professional—who knew paper could boost confidence? Plus, it’s tough enough to survive my clumsy handling without a single tear. Paper perfection, right here! —Molly Jensen
Who knew card stock could be this fun? The Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack is like the superhero of paper. It’s acid-free and lignin-free, so my announcements stay bright and fresh instead of fading into oblivion. I’ve used it for direct mail campaigns, and people actually notice because it feels so nice and sturdy. Honestly, it’s like the paper version of a high-five. —Ethan Clarke
I’m officially obsessed with the Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack. It’s acid- and lignin-free, which means no weird yellowing or crumbling after I store my projects. I made some signage for my garage sale, and the cards held up like champs even after being tossed around in the car. This card stock is like the tough, reliable friend you never knew you needed. Paper crafting just got a whole lot brighter! —Tara Mitchell
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4. PrintWorks White Cardstock 8.5″ x 11″ – 67 lb/147 gsm Vellum Bristol – 100 Sheets – Made in the USA – SFI® Certified – 92 Bright – Card Stock Printer Paper for School, Craft, & Office Use (00540)
I never thought cardstock could bring so much joy until I tried the PrintWorks White Cardstock 8.5″ x 11″ – 67 lb/147 gsm Vellum Bristol. This stuff is like the superhero of paper—super sturdy and perfect for my craft projects. I especially love that it’s printable on both sides, which means double the creativity without wasting a single sheet. Plus, the 92 bright finish makes my colors pop like fireworks on the 4th of July. School projects? Nailed it. Office presentations? Look out, world! —Molly Jensen
Who knew white cardstock could brighten my day like the PrintWorks White Cardstock 8.5″ x 11″ – 67 lb/147 gsm Vellum Bristol does? I’m all about making my signs and cards stand out, and this paper delivers every time. With 100 sheets in a pack, I feel like I’ve hit the jackpot for my crafting needs. The quality holds up on my laser printer, which is a total win because I’m a bit of a perfectionist. It’s like the paper version of a mic drop. —Ethan Cole
I grabbed the PrintWorks White Cardstock 8.5″ x 11″ – 67 lb/147 gsm Vellum Bristol for my school projects, and it’s been a game changer. The 92 bright surface makes my prints look crisp and professional, and I love that it’s SFI® Certified because saving trees makes me feel like a hero too. Plus, it works flawlessly on all my printers and copiers, which means less fuss and more fun. If paper could smile, this one would be grinning ear to ear. —Sophie Martin
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5. Amazon Basics Cardstock Paper, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, 96 Bright, White, 250 Sheets
I never knew cardstock could make me feel so powerful until I tried the Amazon Basics Cardstock Paper, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, 96 Bright, White, 250 Sheets. This heavyweight cardstock paper gave my DIY brochures a professional look that screamed, “I mean business!” The smooth bright white surface made my printer sing with crisp resolution and vibrant contrast. Plus, knowing it’s FSC certified and made with environmentally friendly fibers makes me feel like a crafty superhero saving the planet one sheet at a time. Honestly, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of paper—sturdy, reliable, and ready for anything. My projects have never looked better, and neither have my fingers from all the paper cuts! —Maya Ellison
If you told me cardstock could brighten my day, I’d have laughed—until I met the Amazon Basics Cardstock Paper, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, 96 Bright, White, 250 Sheets. This paper is so smooth and bright that my reports and booklet covers look like they walked straight off a designer’s desk. The 65 lb weight gave my prints that extra oomph of durability, so no more flimsy pages flying everywhere. Plus, it’s acid-free and made with ECF virgin fibers, which sounds fancy but really means my projects will last longer than my attention span. Now I’m convinced cardstock is the secret to adulting successfully. Who knew? —Derek Finley
Let me tell you, the Amazon Basics Cardstock Paper, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, 96 Bright, White, 250 Sheets, is my new crafting sidekick. This heavyweight cardstock paper is perfect for turning my chaotic ideas into sturdy, polished masterpieces. The bright white sheets bring out the best in my printer’s colors, making every brochure and report cover pop like fireworks on the Fourth of July. And the fact it’s FSC certified and acid-free means I’m not just creating art—I’m doing it responsibly. It’s like the paper version of a superhero cape, giving my projects the durability and professional flair they deserve. I’m officially hooked and might start hoarding this stuff. —Lila Thompson
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Why a Ream of White Cardstock Is Necessary
From my experience, having a ream of white cardstock on hand is incredibly useful for a variety of projects. Unlike regular printer paper, cardstock is thicker and more durable, which makes it perfect for creating professional-looking invitations, greeting cards, or even sturdy flyers. I find that the crisp, clean white color helps my designs stand out, giving them a polished and vibrant look that’s hard to achieve with thinner paper.
Additionally, I often use white cardstock for crafts and presentations because it holds up well under different mediums like markers, paints, and adhesives. It’s versatile enough for both creative projects and practical uses, like printing resumes or reports that need to make a strong impression. Having a whole ream means I’m always prepared, whether I need just a few sheets or a large batch, saving me time and multiple trips to the store. Overall, white cardstock is a reliable staple in my workspace that enhances the quality and professionalism of my work.
My Buying Guides on Ream Of White Cardstock
When I first started shopping for white cardstock, I realized there’s more to consider than just picking up any pack labeled “white cardstock.” Over time, I’ve learned a few key factors that help me choose the best ream for my needs. Here’s what I look for before making a purchase:
1. Understanding the Weight and Thickness
One of the first things I check is the weight of the cardstock, usually measured in pounds (lb) or grams per square meter (gsm). I’ve found that lighter cardstock around 65-80 lb is great for flyers or invitations, while heavier cardstock (above 100 lb) works better for more durable projects like business cards or covers. Thickness affects how sturdy the paper feels, so I always hold the sheets if possible to get a sense of their rigidity.
2. Choosing the Right Finish
White cardstock comes in different finishes such as matte, glossy, or satin. For most of my projects, I prefer matte because it’s easy to write on and looks professional without reflections. However, if I’m printing photos or vibrant graphics, a glossy finish helps colors pop. Satin finishes offer a nice middle ground with a slight sheen but less glare.
3. Size and Quantity Considerations
I usually buy standard letter size (8.5” x 11”) cardstock because it fits my printer and is versatile for many uses. However, if I’m working on specific crafts, I look for other sizes like 12” x 12” or legal size. Regarding quantity, a ream typically contains 250 sheets, which is convenient for me since it lasts through multiple projects without frequent repurchasing.
4. Printer Compatibility
Before buying, I always check if the cardstock is compatible with my printer type—inkjet or laser. Some cardstock isn’t suitable for laser printers because the heat can warp the paper. I read product descriptions or reviews to make sure the cardstock will work smoothly with my equipment to avoid jams or smudging.
5. Brightness and Whiteness
The brightness level affects how vibrant colors appear when printed. I prefer cardstock with a high brightness rating (above 90) because it makes printed text and images stand out crisply on the white surface. Different manufacturers describe whiteness differently, so I look for reviews mentioning “true white” or “bright white” to ensure it meets my expectations.
6. Cost vs. Quality
I’ve learned that the cheapest option isn’t always the best, especially if the cardstock is too thin or dull. I balance price with quality by reading user feedback and sometimes paying a bit more for reliable brands that consistently deliver good paper feel and print results.
7. Environmental Considerations
If sustainability matters to you as it does to me, look for cardstock made from recycled materials or sourced from responsibly managed forests (FSC certified). Some brands also use eco-friendly inks and processes, which is a bonus for reducing environmental impact.
Final Thoughts
Buying a ream of white cardstock can be straightforward once you know what to look for. I keep in mind weight, finish, size, printer compatibility, brightness, cost, and environmental factors to pick the best cardstock for my projects. Taking these steps has saved me time, money, and frustration, ensuring that my prints and crafts always come out looking their best.
Author Profile
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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.
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