Paper types and weights: which one to use when
Cardstock, patterned paper, watercolour paper and vellum. What gsm means and how to choose without getting it wrong.
Paper is the one thing that appears in every project, and choosing the wrong one explains most results that do not look like the picture. The difference between papers comes down to two things: the weight (how thick it is) and the surface finish (what it does to ink).
Supplies
- Plain cardstock, 200 to 300 gsm — Cardstock
- Patterned paper, 120 to 200 gsm — Patterned Paper
- 300 gsm watercolour paper — Watercolors
- Vellum (translucent paper)
Step by step
-
What gsm means and why it matters
Gsm is grams per square metre. Copier paper is around 80 gsm; cardstock is 200 to 300. The higher the number, the stiffer the sheet and the better it holds embellishments without buckling.
-
Plain cardstock: bases and layers
The workhorse. 200 to 250 gsm for card bases and layers; 250 to 300 gsm when the page will carry a lot. Canvas-textured stock hides imperfections; smooth stock is better if you plan to stamp on it.
-
Patterned paper: decorate, do not support
Usually thinner (120 to 200 gsm) because its job is decorative, not structural. Never use it as a card base: it folds badly and creases. Mount it on cardstock instead.
-
Watercolour paper: anything involving water
If you are painting, spritzing or blending ink with water, you need 300 gsm. Anything thinner buckles and never recovers. Cold press has texture; hot press is smooth and works better with stamps.
-
Vellum: transparency and soft layers
A beautiful translucent paper for layering over photos or sentiments. Careful: adhesive shows through, so hide it under an embellishment, stitch it down, or use tiny glue dots in the corners.
-
Check the grain direction
Fold a strip both ways: one direction gives cleanly, the other cracks. Always fold your bases with the grain and the spine will be perfect.
Practical tips
- Solid-core coloured cardstock costs more but never shows a white edge when cut or die-cut.
- Store paper flat and out of the light: upright it warps, and direct sun shifts the colours.
- If you are unsure of a sheet weight, compare it by feel with copier paper: cardstock should feel clearly heavier.
FAQ
Can I stamp on watercolour paper?
Yes, but cold press has texture and the image comes out speckled. For fine lines use hot press, or stamp on smooth cardstock and cut it out.
Which paper handles alcohol markers best?
A smooth, dense cardstock made for markers. Porous paper soaks up the ink and spreads it beyond the line.
Related products
A few products from the shop to practise what this tutorial covers:
