Assorted Card Stock Paper

Get packs of white card stock to make customized cards, covers, tags, and posters. This material is also useful in scrapbooking, graphic design, and other creative paper crafting projects. Card stock is thicker and stiffer than regular writing or copy paper yet thinner and more flexible than paperboard. Browse the large inventory and wide selection of paper products at Staples to find card stock in white and other colors.

Choose from different weights of white card stock
The basis weight of card stock is the weight in pounds of 500 sheets of the paper at its basic size. This value is important as it determines the thickness of each sheet as well as its durability. Light card stock has a basis weight between 60 pounds and 70 pounds. Medium-weight stock weighs 80 to 92 pounds, while heavyweight sheets weigh 100 to 110 pounds. Super- or extra-heavyweight card stock has a basis weight of 120 pounds and above.

The thickest sheet is not necessarily the best one for every application. For example, lightweight card stock is easy to roll and folds without scoring. These features make it excellent as decorative and insert sheets as well as craft paper. Medium-weight and heavyweight sheets are stiffer, so users need to score them before folding. These are best for invitations, menus, and certificates.

Consider sheet size and finish when shopping for card stock
The most common sizes for this type of paper are letter (8.5 x 11 inches), legal (8.5 x 14 inches), and ledger/tabloid (11 x 17 inches). Shoppers can also find white card stock in smaller sizes such as 4.5 x 5.5 inches and 5 x 7 inches. These are for printing tickets and tags. Shoppers looking for sheets larger than ledger-sized paper should consider those measuring 12 x 18 inches and 13 x 19 inches. These sizes are suitable for printing calendars and posters.

Finish refers to the surface texture of card stock. This determines the look and feel of the paper and how well it absorbs ink during printing. Popular paper finishes include embossed, felt, glossy, matte, linen, vellum, glittery, wove, and smooth. Some finishes are ideal for certain applications. For example, glossy finish makes colors pop and is excellent for printing photos, brochures, and promotional materials, while a matte finish makes text easier to read.

Can you select coated and uncoated white card stock?
A coated sheet has a waxy upper layer left by a sealant that makes it water-resistant and more durable. This coat also makes the sheet stiffer and gives it a glossy, reflective look. On the other hand, it reduces ink absorption. The untreated surface of uncoated paper is less reflective and better suited for an embossed finish.

What is the difference between white card stock and cover stock?
They both refer to the same type of paper. However, cover stock is the term used for heavyweight paper with a coated and textured surface. Card stock describes a similar paper with a smooth and plain surface.

Can you print on white card stock with a home or office printer?
Most home and office printers can print on light- and medium-weight card stock. However, they may struggle with thicker sheets. For best result, use a commercial printer for a very thick card stock.