cardstock

Cardstock is a thick, rigid form of paper that sits between writing paper and cardboard in its stiffness. It is commonly defined by weight rather than thickness; in the United States, weight is described as a cover weight and typically ranges from about 80 to 110 pounds, corresponding to roughly 210–300 gsm. The thickness (caliper) generally falls around 0.006 to 0.012 inches (0.15–0.30 mm).

Cardstock comes in uncoated and coated varieties, with finishes including smooth, vellum, linen, and other textures. Coated stock tends to produce sharper ink and brighter colors, while uncoated stock offers a more tactile surface and is easier to write on. It is made from wood pulp and is available with varying recycled content and acid-free options for archival use.

Common uses include greeting cards, invitations, business cards, postcards, tags, and as cover material for softcover books or scrapbook pages. It is also used for craft projects and presentation materials where durability and a premium feel are desired.

Cardstock is sold in sheets, pads, and reams, and is available in standard sheet sizes such as US letter and A4, among others, in a range of finishes and weights. It is compatible with many printers, but heavier weights may require special handling, pre-scoring, or professional printing services. When selecting cardstock, considerations include weight, coating, finish, and whether the stock is suited to the intended printing method and durability requirements.