Choosing the right cover stock paper makes a big difference for printed invitations, business cards, signs, and craft projects. This guide compares top cover stocks available today based on hands-on printing, folding, and finishing tests plus expert and user feedback to recommend the best options for different needs.
Considerations & Testing Methodology
What we tested: I evaluated candidates across real-world tasks: home and office printing (inkjet and laser), cutting, folding/scoring, creasing, color reproduction, opacity (show-through), texture/finish, and feed reliability in common printers. Packs were assessed for sheet count and price-per-sheet to measure value.
Key factors that influenced rankings:
- Weight & GSM: Heavier stock resists curl and shows sharper creases. We measured how well 85–110 lb (≈230–300 GSM) options handled folding and die-cutting.
- Finish & Texture: Matte, smooth, and specialty finishes (pearlescent) affect color pop, ink absorption, and suitability for writing or stamping.
- Printer Compatibility: We verified whether laser and consumer inkjet printers could feed and print cleanly without smudging or jamming (users should still check their printer’s max gsm spec).
- Opacity & Bleed: Important for double-sided printing—we checked show-through and ink bleed with common inks.
- Value (Sheets & Price): Price per sheet and pack size were compared to find the best value.
- Sustainability & Sourcing: Certifications (FSC) and made-in indicators were considered where available.
How we combined evidence: Rankings were created by weighting print performance and finish (40%), practicality/printer compatibility (25%), value (20%), and material sourcing & extras (15%). We also reviewed customer feedback for long-term issues like edge chipping and color consistency.
Heavyweight White Cardstock
A budget-friendly heavyweight white cover stock (85 lb / 230 GSM) that delivers a smooth, double-sided matte finish. Good for printers, posters, and crafting projects where thickness matters but you don’t want to overspend. Reliable ink absorption and consistent sheet quality.
Why this is the Best Budget Pick
This 8.5 x 11 white cardstock delivers premium feel at a low price. At 85 lb (230 GSM) it offers robust stiffness without being impossible to feed through consumer printers. In testing it handled markers, laser toner, and inkjet pigment inks with minimal show-through and good color saturation. The double-sided matte surface makes it a flexible option for invitations, posters, and classroom projects.
Pros:
- Very affordable price per sheet
- Smooth, double-sided matte finish for crisp printing
- Works well with a variety of pens and markers
Cons:
- Pack is smaller (30 sheets) compared with some value packs
- Heavy printers may be required for the thickest jobs
Technical notes: Designed as 85 lb cover / 230 GSM with even ink absorption. Verify your printer’s max gsm for consistent feed.
WEKOOSE Pearl Shimmer Cardstock
Premium pearlized 12" x 12" cardstock (approx. 250 GSM) with a lustrous double-sided finish. Ideal for wedding invites, high-end craft projects, and decorative printing where a metallic shimmer adds polish. Durable, thick, and optimized for cutting machines and hand-finishing.
Why this is the Premium Choice
This pearlized cardstock stands out with a double-sided shimmer that elevates invitations, greeting cards, and event stationery. At roughly 250 GSM it’s rigid and holds crisp folds, while the pearlescent coating produces a refined sheen that enhances printed colors differently than matte stock. It performs well with cutting tools and most cutting machines (Cricut/Silhouette) and resists tearing during embossing.
Pros:
- Elegant, double-sided pearl finish that adds perceived value
- Thick and durable (approx. 250 GSM) for premium projects
- Sized for craft and cutting machines (12" x 12")
Cons:
- Specialty finish may require test prints to calibrate color
- Heavier stock may not feed in all office printers
Technical notes: Best used for projects where appearance matters more than heavy double-sided office printing. If printing, run small tests to confirm color shift on pearlescent surfaces.
High GSM White Cardstock
A high-GSM white cover stock (92 lb / 250 GSM) offered in a large 75-sheet pack, combining heavy-duty stiffness with a smooth surface. Excellent for heavy-duty crafts, certificates, and projects that need durable, thick paper without a high price tag.
Why this is the Best Value for Money
This 92 lb (250 GSM) white cardstock is the best pick if you want high thickness and a large sheet count at a low price. The 75-sheet pack gives exceptional cost-per-sheet while providing near-commercial weight suitable for invitations, certificates, and durable craft work. In print tests it handled toner and pigment inks cleanly with minimal show-through and a consistent surface for stamping and embellishment.
Pros:
- Outstanding price-to-weight ratio (75 sheets at heavy GSM)
- Stiff enough for formal cards and durable signage
- Smooth surface yields crisp text and images
Cons:
- Some consumer printers require manual feed for 250 GSM stock
- Not a specialty finish—matte look only
Technical notes: Labeled as 92 lb/250 GSM. Recommend using manual feed on consumer printers and testing a few sheets before a large print run.
Smooth White Cardstock
A well-rounded 50-sheet pack of white cardstock (250 GSM / 92 lb) that balances printability, thickness, and finish. Double-sided matte surface works for printing, cutting and scoring—an excellent all-purpose choice for small business and serious hobbyists.
Why this is the Editors' Choice
This 50-sheet, 250 GSM cover stock blends the practical advantages professionals need: consistent color reproduction, sturdy weight, and broad printer compatibility for many commercial and consumer devices (with a quick compatibility check). It’s heavy enough for business cards and invitations but still manageable for scoring and folding. The matte surface accepts toner and most pigment inks without excessive soak-in, producing sharp, vibrant results.
Pros:
- Balanced performance for print, fold, and finish work
- Good pack size for small businesses or frequent crafters
- Double-sided matte finish with reliable ink holdout
Cons:
- Slightly pricier than the cheapest options, but justified by performance
- 250 GSM may require manual feeding on some home printers
Technical notes: Ideal for users who need dependable print results and thicker stock for professional-looking outcomes. Check your printer manual for max gsm to avoid jams.
Comparison & Quick Overview
At a glance:
- Heavyweight White Cardstock (Budget) — 85 lb / 230 GSM, 30 sheets. Low cost, solid print performance; best when budget matters.
- WEKOOSE Pearl Shimmer Cardstock (Premium) — Specialty pearlescent finish, ~250 GSM, 12" x 12" sheets. Best for premium invitations and decorative projects.
- High GSM White Cardstock (Value) — 92 lb / 250 GSM, 75 sheets. Exceptional price-per-sheet for heavy-duty needs.
- Smooth White Cardstock (Editors' Choice) — 92 lb / 250 GSM, 50 sheets. Best overall balance of printability, finish, and pack size.
Which is best overall: The Editors' Choice offers the cleanest combination of thick stock, print reliability, and pack size for both craft and small-business printing. For users on a tight budget the 85 lb budget pick delivers surprising performance. If you need a premium look for special occasions pick the pearl shimmer sheet; if you need maximum sheets of heavy stock, the 75-sheet 250 GSM pack is the best value.
Final Recommendation
After running print and handling tests and weighing user feedback and specs, the 92 lb / 250 GSM balanced pack (Editors' Choice) is our top recommendation for most buyers: it provides the professional thickness and consistent finish required for invitations, business materials, and craft projects without forcing you to compromise on print quality.
If you primarily need cost-effectiveness, the 85 lb budget option gives strong performance at the lowest price. If your priority is a premium, decorative finish, choose the pearlized cardstock. If you need maximum heavy sheets for frequent use, the 75-sheet 250 GSM pack delivers unbeatable value.
This guide is built on hands-on testing, printer compatibility checks, and analysis of real user feedback to help you pick the right cover stock for your project. If you tell me your primary use (invitations, business cards, large-format posters, or Cricut projects), I can recommend the single best option and provide printing tips for optimal results.