Cardstock That Cuts, Scores, and Prints Like a Dream
For most crafters, Neenah Exact Index Cardstock offers the best balance of weight, smoothness, and affordability. It handles inkjet and laser printers well, but it is not as thick as some heavy cardstocks for 3D projects.
Cardstock is the backbone of many DIY projects, from handmade cards to party decorations. But not all cardstock is created equal. Some are too thin, some jam printers, and some don’t score cleanly.
We compared popular brands and models to help you pick the right one. Our focus is on real specifications, owner feedback, and practical use cases.
What to look for
The shortlist, ranked
Neenah Exact Index Cardstock, 110 lb, White
This is a versatile 110 lb cardstock that works in both inkjet and laser printers. It has a smooth surface that produces crisp prints and clean folds. Users report minimal jamming and good stiffness for cards and tags.
Pros
- Printer friendly with low curl
- Cuts cleanly with scissors or die cutters
- Bright white enhances colors
Cons
- Not as thick as 140 lb for heavy 3D projects
- Some users find it too smooth for chalk or pastels
Astrobrights Cardstock, 65 lb, Assorted Colors
This cardstock comes in a pack of 50 assorted colors that are bright and fade resistant. It is lighter at 65 lb, making it easier to fold and cut. It is great for posters, banners, and kid crafts.
Pros
- Vibrant color selection
- Acid free for archival quality
- Folds without cracking
Cons
- Not heavy enough for premium invitations
- Colors may bleed if wet
Recollections Cardstock, 65 lb, White
This is a lightweight cardstock that is perfect for layering in scrapbooks. It is acid free and lignin free, which protects photos. It has a subtle texture that adds depth to layouts.
Pros
- Scrapbook safe
- Large sheets for versatility
- Soft texture reduces glare
Cons
- Too thin for 3D structures
- Not as bright as other whites
Hammermill Cardstock, 110 lb, White
Hammermill is a trusted office paper brand. This 110 lb cardstock is engineered for high speed printers and copiers. It resists jamming and produces sharp images. It is a reliable choice for professional presentations.
Pros
- Designed for office machines
- Consistent thickness
- Low dust reduces printer maintenance
Cons
- Plain white only
- No texture for artistic effects
Canon Photo Paper Pro Luster, 4×6 inch
Although not traditional cardstock, this heavy luster paper is perfect for photo cards and scrapbook accents. It has a professional finish that resists fingerprints. It is compatible with Canon printers but works with other brands.
Pros
- True photo quality
- Durable and water resistant
- Instant dry
Cons
- Not for general paper crafts
- Small size only
Cricut Cardstock, 65 lb, Assorted Colors
This cardstock is specifically designed for Cricut cutting machines. It cuts cleanly without tearing. It is available in many colors and is double sided. The 12×12 size fits the standard cutting mat.
Pros
- Cuts precisely with Cricut
- Double sided colors
- No curling
Cons
- Premium price
- May be too light for some projects
Staples Cardstock, 110 lb, White
Staples offers a no frills cardstock that gets the job done. It is sturdy enough for signs and cards, but it may not have the premium feel of other brands. It is a good option for schools and offices on a budget.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Thick and sturdy
- Works in most printers
Cons
- Less bright than premium brands
- May have slight color variation
Compared at a glance
| # | Model | Weight | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Neenah Exact Index Cardstock, 110 lb, White | 110 lb (199 gsm) | Everyday crafting and printing | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Astrobrights Cardstock, 65 lb, Assorted Colors | 65 lb (176 gsm) | Colorful projects and signs | 9.1 | Check price |
| 3 | Recollections Cardstock, 65 lb, White | 65 lb (176 gsm) | Scrapbooking and layouts | 8.9 | Check price |
| 4 | Hammermill Cardstock, 110 lb, White | 110 lb (199 gsm) | High volume printing | 9.0 | Check price |
| 5 | Canon Photo Paper Pro Luster, 4×6 inch | Paper weight 52 lb (200 gsm) | Photo printing | 8.7 | Check price |
| 6 | Cricut Cardstock, 65 lb, Assorted Colors | 65 lb (176 gsm) | Die cutting machines | 8.8 | Check price |
| 7 | Staples Cardstock, 110 lb, White | 110 lb (199 gsm) | Budget friendly bulk | 8.5 | Check price |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between cardstock and construction paper?
Cardstock is much heavier and stiffer than construction paper. It has a smoother surface and is more durable, making it suitable for printing and professional crafts.
Can I use cardstock in my printer?
Most home printers can handle cardstock up to 110 lb. Check your printer manual for maximum paper weight. Always test a single sheet first.
What weight cardstock is best for invitations?
For a premium feel, use 110 lb cardstock. It is thick enough to be sturdy but still flexible for folding. Heavier weights may require scoring.
How do I fold cardstock without cracking?
Use a bone folder to score the paper along the fold line first. This creates a clean crease and prevents cracking, especially on heavier cardstock.
Is cardstock recyclable?
Yes, cardstock is recyclable if it is not coated with plastic or contaminated with glue or glitter. Check with your local recycling program.
What is the best cardstock for Cricut?
Cricut brand cardstock is optimized for Cricut machines, but many other brands work well. Look for 65 lb or 80 lb cardstock for clean cuts.
Can I use watercolors on cardstock?
Heavy cardstock can handle light watercolor washes, but it may warp. For wet media, consider using watercolor paper or a heavier cardstock.
How many sheets are in a standard pack?
Packs vary from 50 to 250 sheets. Bulk packs are more economical for frequent use, while smaller packs are good for trying a new brand.
What is the brightest white cardstock?
Neenah Exact and Hammermill are known for their bright white shades. Brightness is measured on a scale, with higher numbers indicating more reflectance.
Does cardstock come in different sizes?
Yes, common sizes include 8.5 x 11 inches, 12 x 12 inches for scrapbooking, and specialty sizes like 4 x 6 inches for photos.
Final word
For most crafters, the Neenah Exact Index Cardstock is the best all around choice. It combines durability, print quality, and affordability. If you need vibrant colors, Astrobrights is excellent. For heavy duty business cards, consider Hammermill. But for everyday projects, Neenah gives you the best value.
