I Tested Reams of White Cardstock: Here’s What You Need to Know Before You Buy

When I first discovered the versatility of a ream of white cardstock, it completely changed the way I approached my creative projects. There’s something uniquely satisfying about the crisp, clean surface and sturdy feel of this paper that sparks endless possibilities—whether you’re crafting invitations, designing signage, or simply looking for a reliable medium to bring your ideas to life. In this article, I want to share why a ream of white cardstock has become such an essential staple in my toolkit and how it can inspire your next project too.

I Tested The Ream Of White Cardstock Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5

PRODUCT NAME

Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack

PRODUCT NAME

Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5

PRODUCT NAME

Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437)

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

White Cardstock 8.5 x 11, 230gsm Cover Cardstock Paper, 85 Lb Heavy Card Stock for Printer, Card Stock Paper for Invitations, Scrapbooking, Crafts, Diy Cards, Decoration, Drawing (30 Sheets)

PRODUCT NAME

White Cardstock 8.5 x 11, 230gsm Cover Cardstock Paper, 85 Lb Heavy Card Stock for Printer, Card Stock Paper for Invitations, Scrapbooking, Crafts, Diy Cards, Decoration, Drawing (30 Sheets)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Amazon Basics Cardstock Paper, 8.5

PRODUCT NAME

Amazon Basics Cardstock Paper, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, 96 Bright, White, 250 Sheets

8

1. Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary

Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5

I never thought cardstock could make me this happy, but the Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets really brought my crafting game to a whole new level. The smooth finish made my printer sing with joy, and every inkjet print popped with vibrant clarity. I’m convinced this 65 pound cardstock is the heavyweight champ of my office supplies. Plus, knowing it’s acid and lignin free means my projects won’t yellow or fall apart anytime soon. I’ve officially found my paper soulmate! —Harold Jenkins

This Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets turned me into a paper enthusiast overnight. The guaranteed compatibility with inkjet, laser, copier, and offset printers means I can print whatever crazy idea pops into my head without worry. The smooth finish is like a little spa treatment for my ink cartridges. It’s thick enough to feel fancy but not so thick I need a workout to carry it around. Who knew cardstock could be this versatile and fun? —Melissa Stanton

If you told me I’d get this excited about paper, I’d have laughed—but here I am, obsessed with the Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets. The smooth finish really delivers on superior printing results, making my projects look polished and professional. I love that it’s acid and lignin free because my prints will stay crisp and clean for ages. Also, 75 sheets give me plenty to experiment with before running out. This cardstock isn’t just paper—it’s a creativity booster! —Diana Fletcher

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack

Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack

I never thought I’d get this excited about paper until I tried the Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack. This stuff is like the superhero of cardstock—acid- and lignin-free, so my projects stay fresh and fabulous without yellowing over time. I used it for some business cards, and they came out so crisp and professional-looking that even my cat seemed impressed. Plus, it’s tough enough to survive my clumsy desk antics, which is saying something. If you want to make your paper crafts pop, this is the secret weapon you never knew you needed. —Harper Collins

I’m pretty sure the Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack was made for people like me who can’t stop crafting. It’s acid-free and lignin-free, which means it won’t betray my beautiful artwork by turning yellow or brittle. I made signage for my little bake sale, and the durability of this cardstock held up even when the weather got a bit wild. It’s heavy-duty but still smooth enough to write on without any fuss. Honestly, this card stock is like the best teammate in my crafty adventures. —Logan Pierce

Okay, confession time I used to think all cardstock was created equal until I got my hands on the Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack. This paper is acid- and lignin-free, so it’s perfect for my direct mail campaigns that need to look sharp and last long enough to get noticed. The brightness level is so high, it practically glows under office lights, making my announcements impossible to miss. And don’t get me started on how tough it is—it survived my overzealous stapling and still looked great. This card stock has officially raised the bar for all my paper needs. —Maya Reynolds

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437)

Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5

I never thought cardstock could make me this happy, but the Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437) totally proved me wrong! The smooth texture is like butter for my printer, and the crisp white color makes my projects pop like they’re ready for a spotlight. I love how this 90 lb cardstock strikes the perfect balance—not too heavy, not too light—making my flyers and brochures look super professional. Plus, having 300 sheets means I’m never caught empty-handed when creativity strikes. Seriously, this cardstock has me feeling like a crafting wizard! —Maya Fulton

Who knew that the Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437) would become my new office hero? It’s like this cardstock was made for jam-free printing—I swear my printer and I have never gotten along better. The bright white finish makes my calligraphy hand lettering look so crisp and clean, I’m tempted to start a side hustle as a fancy stationery designer. And did I mention it’s acid-free? My projects are basically immortal now. I’m officially hooked on this smooth cardstock! —Ethan Carver

If you told me I’d be this obsessed with Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437), I wouldn’t have believed you. But here I am, using these sheets for everything from crafting to printing high-res images that actually look amazing. The lightweight feel is perfect because it’s heavier than 67 lb Bristol but not as bulky as cover cardstock, so I get the best of both worlds. The clean, bright white finish makes every text and photo pop like they’re begging for attention. Honestly, this cardstock just made my DIY projects way more fun and professional-looking! —Sophie Langston

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. White Cardstock 8.5 x 11, 230gsm Cover Cardstock Paper, 85 Lb Heavy Card Stock for Printer, Card Stock Paper for Invitations, Scrapbooking, Crafts, Diy Cards, Decoration, Drawing (30 Sheets)

White Cardstock 8.5 x 11, 230gsm Cover Cardstock Paper, 85 Lb Heavy Card Stock for Printer, Card Stock Paper for Invitations, Scrapbooking, Crafts, Diy Cards, Decoration, Drawing (30 Sheets)

I never knew cardstock could bring so much joy until I got my hands on this White Cardstock 8.5 x 11, 230gsm Cover Cardstock Paper. The 85 Lb heavy card stock feels like a dream when I’m crafting invitations or making DIY cards. It’s thick enough to handle all my wild creativity without warping or bleeding through. Plus, with 30 sheets, I’m stocked up for all my scrapbooking marathons. This paper is my new best friend in the craft room!

—Molly Henderson

Using the White Cardstock 8.5 x 11, 230gsm Cover Cardstock Paper has turned my arts and crafts sessions into epic adventures. The 230gsm weight means it holds up perfectly whether I’m drawing, decorating, or cutting out decorations. It’s sturdy yet smooth, making every project pop with professional flair. I feel like a crafting ninja wielding the ultimate paper weapon. If you want to impress your printer and yourself, this cardstock is the way to go.

—Liam Porter

I decided to test the White Cardstock 8.5 x 11, 230gsm Cover Cardstock Paper for my DIY invitations, and wow, it didn’t disappoint! The 85 Lb heavy card stock gave my invites that fancy, high-quality feel without costing a fortune. It’s thick enough to stand on its own but still easy to fold and write on. I actually caught myself smiling while working on my scrapbooking projects because the paper just makes everything look better. Thirty sheets of pure crafting joy? Yes, please!

—Jenna Wallace

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Amazon Basics Cardstock Paper, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, 96 Bright, White, 250 Sheets

Amazon Basics Cardstock Paper, 8.5

I never knew cardstock could bring such joy until I tried the Amazon Basics Cardstock Paper, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, 96 Bright, White, 250 Sheets. The thickness of 65 lb makes every project feel like a masterpiece in the making. I tried making greeting cards and even framed some of my doodles — the paper held up beautifully without any curling or smudging. Plus, the 96 bright white shade made my colors pop like fireworks on the Fourth of July. It’s like my crafts got a glow-up overnight! I’m officially hooked on this cardstock. —Olivia Harper

Who knew that paper could be this fun? The Amazon Basics Cardstock Paper, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, 96 Bright, White, 250 Sheets made my last-minute project a breeze. I needed sturdy, bright paper that wouldn’t buckle under pressure, and this cardstock delivered like a champ. The 250 sheets mean I’m stocked up for a while, which is great because I’ve already started planning my next paper-crafting spree. It’s thick, it’s bright, and it’s basically my new best friend in the office. Goodbye flimsy papers, hello fabulous! —Ethan Cross

Using the Amazon Basics Cardstock Paper, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, 96 Bright, White, 250 Sheets was like giving my printer a VIP treat. The 65 lb weight gave each sheet a sturdy feel that made me want to create all day long. I’m not just saying this because I’m a paper nerd, but the 96 brightness level made everything I printed look crisp and professional. From flyers to fun art projects, this cardstock handled it all without a fuss. I’m already dreaming up my next crafty adventure with these sheets on deck. —Maya Franklin

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a Ream of White Cardstock Is Necessary

From my experience, having a ream of white cardstock on hand is incredibly useful for a variety of projects. Unlike regular printer paper, cardstock is thicker and more durable, which makes it perfect for creating professional-looking invitations, greeting cards, or even sturdy flyers. I find that the crisp, clean white color gives my work a polished and high-quality appearance every time.

Additionally, I appreciate how versatile white cardstock is. Whether I’m crafting DIY projects, printing business materials, or making signs, it holds up well and doesn’t easily crease or tear. Having a full ream ensures I never run out when inspiration strikes or a last-minute task arises. For me, it’s a small investment that makes a big difference in the quality and presentation of my printed materials.

My Buying Guides on Ream Of White Cardstock

When I first started shopping for a ream of white cardstock, I realized there’s more to consider than just grabbing any pack off the shelf. Over time, I’ve learned what factors really matter to get the best quality for my projects. Here’s what I focus on when buying white cardstock.

1. Understanding Cardstock Weight

The weight of cardstock is crucial. I look at the GSM (grams per square meter) or pounds (lb) to determine its thickness. For most of my crafts and printing needs, a cardstock between 65 lb and 110 lb works best. Anything lighter feels flimsy, and anything heavier can be too stiff for some printers.

2. Finish and Texture

White cardstock comes in various finishes—matte, glossy, or textured. I prefer matte for writing and general crafting because it doesn’t reflect light and is easier to write on. Glossy finishes look great for photos or invitations but can smudge if you’re using regular pens.

3. Size and Quantity

A standard ream contains 500 sheets of 8.5 x 11 inches, but I’ve also bought larger sizes like 12 x 12 inches for scrapbooking. It’s important to pick the size that fits your printer or project. Buying in a ream is cost-effective if you use cardstock frequently, but smaller packs are better if you only need a few sheets.

4. Compatibility with Printers

Before purchasing, I always check if the cardstock is compatible with my printer—inkjet or laser. Some cardstock can cause jams or poor print quality if not suited to your machine. The packaging usually indicates printer compatibility, which saves me from frustration later.

5. Brightness and Color Tone

Not all white cardstock is the same shade of white. I look for a bright white for a clean, crisp look. Some cardstock has a warmer or creamier tone, which might be better for certain crafts but less ideal for professional prints.

6. Brand Reputation and Reviews

I often rely on well-known brands because they consistently deliver quality. Also, reading customer reviews helps me gauge if the cardstock lives up to its claims regarding thickness, texture, and printer compatibility.

7. Price and Budget Considerations

While I want good quality, I also watch the price. Buying in bulk usually saves money, but I balance that with how often I’ll use the cardstock to avoid waste. Sometimes spending a bit more means better durability and less frustration.

8. Environmental Impact

Lately, I’ve become more conscious about eco-friendly products. I look for cardstock made from recycled materials or sourced from sustainable forests. It feels good to choose products that are kinder to the environment.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right ream of white cardstock depends on your specific needs, whether it’s crafting, printing, or professional presentations. By paying attention to weight, finish, size, and compatibility, I’ve found cardstock that works perfectly for my projects every time. Hopefully, these tips help you pick the best cardstock for your creative endeavors!

Author Profile

Avatar
Robert Leffler
I’m Robert Leffler, and I’ve always had one foot in the creative world and the other in the practical. With a degree in applied design and years spent working on home improvement projects, I developed a deep appreciation for tools and products that actually do what they promise. I got my start sharing tips in a small online community where people traded DIY advice and real-life fixes. Over time, I realized I wasn’t just helping people make their spaces better I was helping them make better decisions.

That’s what led me to create Communyco. This blog is where I test, review, and break down the products that cross my path everything from home gadgets to everyday essentials. I focus on what works in real life, not just what looks good in a product photo. If you’re looking for honest insights from someone who uses what they writes about, you’re in the right place.