Learning how to print on cardstock can be a game-changer for crafting, business branding, event invitations, marketing materials, and professional printing projects. Cardstock is thicker and more durable than standard printing paper, which makes it perfect for projects like greeting cards, tags, business cards, postcards, menus, certificates, and custom packaging designs.

But printing on cardstock requires special preparation, correct printer settings, and specific handling techniques to ensure flawless, smudge-free results. Whether you’re using a home printer, office machine, or professional-grade printer, this guide covers everything you need to know.

This ultimate tutorial includes a 5-step easy guide, troubleshooting tips, recommended cardstock types, thickness explanations, and expert advice used by creative designers and printing companies like buycustombox.

Let’s dive into the complete process.

What Is Cardstock? Understanding the Material Before Printing

Before learning How To Print on Cardstock, it’s essential to know what cardstock actually is.

Cardstock is a thick, durable, premium paper that sits between regular printer paper and cardboard. Also called cover stock or craft paper, it offers structural integrity while still allowing easy printing.

Why People Choose Cardstock

• More durable than copy paper
• Vibrant ink absorption
• Professional appearance
• Ideal for crafts, business materials, and events
• Available in dozens of weights and finishes
  

Its versatility makes it one of the most popular printing materials for personal and commercial use.

Types of Cardstock You Can Print On

Different printing results depend on the type of cardstock you choose. Here are the most common varieties.

Matte Cardstock

• Smooth surface
• Ink dries quickly
• Perfect for text-heavy designs

Glossy Cardstock

• Shiny finish
• Great for photos and vibrant graphics
• Requires careful drying time

Textured Cardstock

• Includes linen, canvas, and parchment textures
• Elegant appearance
• Best for invitations and luxury prints

Colored Cardstock

• Solid colors (pastel, bright, dark)
• Works well for crafting, scrapbooking, signage

Premium Heavyweight Cardstock

• Extra thick
• Best for business cards or high-end prints

Understanding cardstock types helps you choose the right material depending on your project.

Understanding Cardstock Weight (Pounds vs. GSM)

One of the most confusing parts is selecting the perfect thickness.

Common Cardstock Weights

Important Rule:

Heavier cardstock requires a stronger, more capable printer.

Can Every Printer Print on Cardstock?

The short answer? No.
Not all printers are built to handle thick paper.

Here’s what determines compatibility:

What to Check

1. Printer Manual

The manufacturer usually lists maximum supported paper weight.

2. Rear Paper Tray

Printers with rear feed trays work best because cardstock feeds straight without bending.

3. Laser vs. Inkjet Printer

Both can print cardstock, but results differ:

• Inkjet Printers
  Great for photos, artwork, color-rich designs.
• Laser Printers
  Perfect for text-heavy documents and crisp lines.

If your printer does not support heavy cardstock, forcing it may cause paper jams, poor print quality, or damage.

How To Print on Cardstock | 5 Step Easy Guide

Here is the complete How To Print on Cardstock guide with simple steps anyone can follow, whether you’re using a home printer or a commercial device.

Step 1: Choose the Right Cardstock

Selecting appropriate cardstock ensures better print quality and prevents machine issues.

Key Points

• Use 65 lb to 110 lb cardstock for home printers
• Choose matte cardstock for text
• Choose glossy cardstock for photos
• Use textured cardstock for invitations

Avoid extremely thick cardstock unless your printer explicitly supports it.

Step 2: Adjust Your Printer Settings

Correct printer settings are essential for clear, smudge-free printing.

Settings to Change

• Paper Type: Choose Cardstock, Heavy Paper, or Thick Paper
• Quality: Set to High or Best
• Paper Source: Select Rear tray if available
• Color Settings: Adjust brightness, saturation, or contrast as needed

These settings optimize how your printer deposits ink or toner on thick surfaces.

Step 3: Load Cardstock Properly

Cardstock is thicker and requires gentle feeding.

How to Load

• Load only a few sheets at a time
• Fan the sheets to prevent sticking
• Insert cardstock straight and centered
• Use the rear feed tray when possible

Correct loading prevents jams and uneven printing.

Step 4: Print a Test Page

Always print a single test page before printing your entire project.

Why a Test Print Matters

• Ensures colors print correctly
• Verifies alignment and margins
• Checks thickness compatibility
• Avoids wasting expensive cardstock

If the test page looks perfect, continue printing your entire batch.

Step 5: Allow Proper Drying and Handling

Ink takes longer to dry on thick paper.

Drying Tips

• Lay sheets flat
• Avoid stacking freshly printed pages
• Do not touch printed areas for several minutes
• Use quick-dry ink if your printer supports it

Following these steps ensures smudge-free, professional-quality prints.

Common Problems When Printing on Cardstock (And Solutions)

Even with careful preparation, issues can occur. Here’s how to fix them.

Paper Jams

Solution:
Use lighter cardstock or feed fewer sheets at once.

Ink Smudging

Solution:
Increase drying time, lower ink saturation, or switch to matte cardstock.

Uneven Printing

Solution:
Adjust paper thickness settings or clean printer rollers.

Colors Not Bright Enough

Solution:
Use high-quality ink and increase print quality settings.

Printer Won’t Accept Cardstock

Solution:
Use rear tray or check your printer’s max weight limit.

What Projects Can You Create With Cardstock?

Cardstock printing opens doors to dozens of professional and craft projects.

Popular Uses

• Invitations
• Greeting cards
• Postcards
• Business cards
• Wall art
• Menu cards
• Certificates
• Gift tags
• Scrapbooking
• Labels and stickers
• Packaging inserts

No wonder cardstock is one of the most widely used materials by designers and businesses.

How To Print on Cardstock Without a Printer

If you don’t have a compatible printer, you still have options:

Alternative Methods

• Use a print shop
• Use a professional cardstock printer
• Use a copy center
• Order printed cardstock online

This is a great option for heavy cardstock weights or large print quantities.

How To Print on Cardstock Using Laser vs. Inkjet Printers

Both printer types work, but results differ.

Inkjet Printing

• Best for photos, colorful designs
• Produces rich, saturated colors
• Works well with glossy and matte cardstock

Laser Printing

• Best for text and sharp lines
• Faster than inkjet
• Works best with smooth cardstock

Choose based on the project type and output quality needed.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cardstock Printing

Here are professional-grade techniques to get flawless prints:

• Warm up your printer before printing
• Use high-resolution designs (300 DPI)
• Avoid using extremely dark cardstock unless your printer supports white ink
• Increase margin settings for thick materials
• Print in batches for heat control
• Store cardstock flat to prevent curling

These tips ensure better results every time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can regular printers print on cardstock?

Yes, but only if the printer supports thick paper. Always check the manual.

2. What is the best weight for printing on cardstock?

65 lb–110 lb is ideal for home or office printers.

3. Why does my printer jam when printing on cardstock?

The cardstock might be too thick or incorrectly loaded.

4. Can I print photos on cardstock?

Yes. Glossy cardstock provides the best photo results.

5. Should I print from the rear tray?

Yes, if your printer has one. It prevents bending and improves feed.

6. Why is my ink smudging?

The ink may need more drying time or the print quality is too high for the paper type.

7. Can laser printers print on textured cardstock?

It depends on the printer model. Some laser printers struggle with deep textures.

8. Is cardstock the same as cover stock?

Yes, these terms are often used interchangeably.

9. Can I use cardstock for business cards?

Absolutely. Choose 110 lb or heavier for premium business card printing.

10. What software should I use for cardstock designs?

Canva, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or MS Publisher works great.

Final Thoughts

Learning How To Print on Cardstock is essential for anyone creating crafts, invitations, branding materials, or custom designs. By choosing the right cardstock, adjusting print settings, loading the paper correctly, and following a simple step-by-step process, you can produce professional-quality prints from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re a creative artist, small business owner, or DIY enthusiast, mastering cardstock printing opens the door to countless exciting projects.

If you want beautifully printed cardstock for packaging or promotional materials, professional services like buycustombox can elevate your designs with premium finishing and advanced printing techniques.