Choosing The Perfect Card Stock For Wedding Invites

When it comes to wedding invitations, there are several factors to consider when choosing the right cardstock weight. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, it is generally recommended to use a heavier cardstock for a more formal and elegant look and feel. Most consumer-grade printers can handle 80 lb to 100 lb paper, but it's important to check your printer's weight capacity as some may have limitations. For a single flat sheet invitation, a heavier weight cardstock of 80 lb cover and above is suggested, while folding invitation cards typically use lighter stock, usually ranging from 65 lb to 100 lb cover. Additionally, layered invitations can have varying weights, with the top layer recommended to be 80 lb cover or lighter, and the backer or pocket as heavy as desired. It's also important to keep in mind that heavier cardstock will require more postage. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference, design, and budget constraints.

Most home printers can handle 80-100 lb paper

80 lb and 100 lb paper are both thicker and stiffer than your standard copy paper. The higher the weight in pounds, the thicker the paper. 80 lb paper is thinner and lighter than 100 lb paper, but both are considered medium weight paper. They are both thicker than standard printer paper, but most home printers can handle them.

If you're printing at home, it's important to know the maximum weight of paper your printer can handle. Most consumer-grade home printers can handle 80 lb to 100 lb paper, but not all. To find out, check your printer's instructions and do a test print. Start with 80 lb paper and increase the weight until you encounter issues like smudging or jamming. Then move down a weight.

If you're printing wedding invitations, 80 lb paper is ideal for most home printers. It's a little on the thin side, but it can go through most desktop printers without any issues. 100 lb paper can go through some home printers, but it may cause problems in others. It's heavy enough to give your invitations a professional look and feel, and you can still mail them with a single stamp.

If you want to print on 110 lb paper or heavier, you'll likely need an industrial printer like those at FedEx or Kinko's.

Heavier cardstock is durable and elegant

When it comes to wedding invitations, you want something that feels elegant and special. Heavier cardstock is perfect for this, as it gives your invitations a luxurious look and feel.

The weight of cardstock is measured in pounds or grams per square meter (gsm). Heavier cardstock typically starts at 80 lb and can go up to 300 lb or more. For wedding invitations, you'll usually want to use cardstock that's at least 80 lb, but thicker cardstock will result in a more formal and elegant finish.

Cardstock that's 111 lb or heavier is considered "extra heavy weight". This weight of cardstock is ideal for adding a touch of luxury and elegance to your wedding invitations. It will give your invitations a substantial feel, making them stand out from everyday mail.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, heavier cardstock is also more durable than lighter-weight paper. It's less likely to tear, warp, or get damaged during the printing and mailing process. This means your invitations will arrive at your guests' homes looking their best.

When choosing a heavier cardstock for your wedding invitations, it's important to consider the printing process and your printer's capabilities. Some home printers may struggle with cardstock that's thicker than 80 lb, so be sure to check your printer's specifications before purchasing your paper. If you're using a professional printing service, they should be able to accommodate heavier cardstock weights.

Overall, choosing a heavier cardstock for your wedding invitations is a great way to add a touch of elegance and durability. With its substantial feel and ability to withstand the mailing process, 111 lb cardstock or heavier is an excellent choice for creating beautiful and long-lasting invitations.

Lighter cardstock is better for folding

If you are printing your wedding invitations at home, it is important to consider the paper weight capabilities of your home printer. Most consumer-grade home printers can handle 80lb (216gsm) to 100lb (270gsm) cardstock, but not all. Be sure to do your research and consult your printer manual for cardstock printing information and recommendations.

Additionally, if you are folding your cardstock, it is important to score the stock before folding it to ensure a clean fold. You can use a bone folder or a dull knife to score the cardstock and then fold it along the scored line. Another option is to lightly dampen the cardstock after scoring and fold it slowly. You can also place the cardstock between a thin cloth and set a heavy book on top of it to help it dry flat.

110 lb cardstock is considered heavyweight

When it comes to wedding invitations, there are many factors to consider when choosing the right cardstock. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, selecting the appropriate cardstock weight is crucial. 110 lb cardstock is considered heavyweight and is an excellent choice for wedding invitations.

Cardstock weight is typically measured in pounds or grams per square meter (GSM). The higher the number in pounds, the thicker the cardstock. 110 lb cardstock falls within the range of 110-130 lb cardstock, which is classified as heavyweight. This weight category is ideal for those seeking to create luxurious and elegant wedding invitations.

The advantages of using 110 lb cardstock for wedding invitations are significant. Firstly, it provides a sophisticated and refined appearance. The thickness of the cardstock conveys a sense of quality and luxury, enhancing the overall impression of the invitation. Secondly, 110 lb cardstock is sturdy and durable. It can withstand handling and is less likely to bend or tear, ensuring that your invitations arrive in pristine condition.

Additionally, 110 lb cardstock is suitable for various printing methods, including home printing and professional printing services. It is compatible with most consumer-grade home printers, making it a convenient option for those who prefer DIY projects. However, it is always recommended to consult your printer's specifications to ensure compatibility.

When choosing 110 lb cardstock for wedding invitations, it is essential to consider the invitation style and postage requirements. Flat invitation cards typically use heavier cardstock, while folding invitation cards may require lighter cardstock to facilitate easier folding. Moreover, thicker cardstock will increase postage costs, so it is advisable to keep the weight down if you want to save on postage.

In conclusion, 110 lb cardstock is an excellent choice for wedding invitations due to its heavyweight characteristics. It offers a luxurious feel, durability, and versatility in printing options. By considering the invitation style, postage, and your printer's capabilities, you can create elegant and professional-looking wedding invitations that will impress your guests.

Paper weight is calculated by the weight of uncut paper

When it comes to paper weight, there are typically two ways to measure it: the weight of the paper and the thickness of the paper. The weight of the paper is determined by how much a ream of uncut paper weighs. A ream usually consists of 500 sheets of paper. The paper is weighed before being cut down to smaller sizes and this weight is what's used to identify and categorise the product.

The U.S. basis weight method is a way of measuring the weight of 500 sheets of paper in its uncut form. For example, an uncut sheet of bond paper measures 17 x 22 inches, but if 500 sheets of this paper were cut to letter size and weighed 20 pounds, the paper would be labelled as "20 lb".

The metric weight method, also known as grammage, is a more straightforward way of measuring paper weight. It is represented as the weight of a sheet of paper cut to a 1 x 1-metre square and is written as grams per square meter (gsm).

Paper weight is also measured in pounds (#) and points (pt). Cover weight and text weight are two different types of paper categorisation in the U.S. For example, 80# text and 80# cover are two very different types of paper. Cover weight is thicker and more rigid than text weight.

Cardstock weight used for wedding invitations varies considerably and can range from 65lb/176gsm to 222lb/600gsm or higher. 110lb/298gsm is a popular choice for wedding invitations. Heavier papers or cardstocks of about 250-350 gsm are best for invitations.

Frequently asked questions