Cardstock is a term that is frequently used in the packaging industry, stationary, and printing.
Whether you are making greeting cards, business invitations, posters, or custom boxes, knowing what card stock is and how to choose the right one can significantly impact the quality of your final output.
So, if this term is new to you, then this article has a complete guide to cardstock!
What is Card Stock?
Cardstock, also known as card stock, is a type of paper that is famous for its thickness, sturdiness, and durability. It is thicker than regular printer paper but thinner than other types of paperboard, making it an excellent choice for various applications where a more robust material is required.
Cardstock is available in different weights, which are usually measured in pounds. The higher the weight, the thicker and more robust the paper becomes.
A Brief History of the Cardstock Manufacturing Process
Cardstock paper was first known along with the introduction of wood pulp in 1843. Prior to this, the industries used rags (recycled fibers made from hemp, linen, and cotton) as the common fiber sources.
In brief, the manufacturing process of wood pulp went through chemical and mechanical pulping. Meanwhile, for recycled cardstock paper, it’s manufactured by blending chemically or mechanically produced pulp with water. The overall steps are done by using mechanical processes.
Understanding the Various Weights & Thicknesses of Cardstock Paper
When selecting cardstock for your home or business printer, it’s essential to ensure that you choose a weight that your printer or copier can handle effectively. Compatibility with your printing equipment is a critical consideration to avoid potential printing issues.
For the key points, the weight of cardstock is typically measured in pounds (lb), points (pt), or grams per square meter (gsm). The higher numbers indicate thicker and heavier paper.
To give you a better understanding, have a look at the table below!
| lb | pt | gsm |
| 100 lb | 12 pt | 271-298 gsm |
| 110 lb | 14 pt | 298-325 gsm |
| 120 lb | 16 pt | 325-350 gsm |
| 130 lb | 18 pt | 350-400 gsm |
| 160 lb | 24 pt | 450-500 gsm |
Below are the various weights and suitable uses of cardstock you should know!
- 12pt. Cardstock: This weight is ideal for business cards, postcards, and lightweight brochure covers.
- 14pt. Cardstock: This weight is perfect for items like tickets and postcards. It provides a balance between durability and flexibility.
- 16pt. Cardstock: This weight is often used for professional materials such as business cards and invitations. Its increased thickness conveys a sense of quality and durability.
- 18pt. Cardstock: This weight is ideal for luxury and upscaling applications to leave a lasting impression.
- 24pt. Cardstock: This weight is used for certificates and menus. Its significant weight adds a sense of importance to documents and presentations.
Types of Textures and Finishes
Several different types of finishes and textures are available in Cardstock. Each has its unique characteristics:
- Matte Card Stock: Matte card stock has a non-reflective surface, which makes it perfect for projects where you want a soft, elegant finish. It’s often used for items like business cards, brochures, and postcards.
- Glossy Card Stock: Glossy card stock has a shiny finish that adds vibrancy and sheen to printed materials. It’s a popular choice for photos, promotional materials, and eye-catching designs.
- Textured Cardstock: Textured card stock comes in various finishes, such as linen, felt, or laid, giving your projects a tactile dimension. It’s often used for wedding invitations and other elegant stationery.
- Stain: It creates a balance between glossy cardstock and matte paper. It gives you the best of both.
- Cockle: It has a rough texture that looks similar to the finish of handmade paper
Use of Cardstock in Packaging
Cardstock is a versatile material that serves a vital role in packaging. It is used in a wide range of industries, including retail and marketing, and contributes to both the functionality and aesthetics of packaging solutions.
Here are some applications of cardstock in packaging today!
Retail Packaging
It can be used to create retail packaging boxes, cartons, and sleeves that house and display items on store shelves. The sturdiness of card stock makes it well-suited for protecting the contents and maintaining their structural integrity.
Custom Boxes and Containers
Card stock is a great way to create unique custom boxes and containers. The best part is that they can be made to fit your product’s unique dimensions and requirements, making for a truly professional and eye-catching presentation.
Sustainable Packaging
As more and more people are concerned about the environment, using cardstock made from recycled materials for your packaging not only helps you to protect the planet but also maintains the strength and versatility of the material.
Card stock is a versatile material that finds widespread use in packaging across various industries, including food and cosmetics as well.
Final Thoughts
Indeed, whether you are making greeting cards, business invitations, posters, or custom boxes, knowing what cardstock is and how to choose the right one can significantly impact the quality of your final output. Hopefully, our complete guide here gives you a better understanding of the thickness and weight of cardstock you need.
Still have questions? You can feel free to contact the experts at Custom Box Makers!
