Cardstock - Variety of Types for Paper Crafting and
Scrapbooking
Cardstock is a paper crafter's staple. It comes in many
different sizes, including 6 x 6, 8 x 8, 8.5 x 11, and the
traditional scrapbooking size of 12 x 12. It can also come in
various weights, including 65 lbs, 110 lbs, or the standard 80 lb
weight. Cardstock is heavier than standard paper and
therefore is sturdier for certain types of crafts.
Comparatively, regular paper does not tolerate excess liquid or
heavy embellishment applications as well as cardstock. In the
past, paper crafters only had limited colors and sizes to choose
from when crafting. Today, cardstock is available in an ample
variety of weights, textures, and colors, which can be worked into
an extensive array of designs.
Types of Cardstock
Iridescent--Has
a coating that displays a spectrum of colors that shimmer and
change as the observer's position changes.
Glossy--Has
a coating that is shiny or lustrous.
Vellum--A
fine parchment paper made from the skin of a calf, kid, or
lamb. It can range from almost transparent to almost
opaque.
Textured--Is
made up of various fiber or other content that gives it a unique
texture. Common textures include linen, canvas, wood,
etc.
Matte--Has
a coating that is dull or lusterless.
Glitter--Has
a coating that is made up of colored glitter.
Projects and Techniques to try with Cardstock
- Cards--This may include greeting cards, announcements,
invitations, place setting cards, gift tags, menus, post cards,
etc.
- Rubber Stamping--May include cards, scrapbooking, altered art,
mixed media, home decorating, etc.
- Scrapbooking--Use cardstock for background pages,
embellishments, tags, borders, photo mats, etc.
- Altered Art--Artist Trading Cards (ATC), embellishments, tags,
borders, photo mats, post cards, etc.
- Mixed Media--This may include embellishments, tags, borders,
etc.
Popular Cardstock Manufacturers
Inspiration
Check out various cardstock and craft projects made with
cardstock at our Think Crafts
Blog.
Paper craft project books are also a great resource for finding
ideas.
Author
Billie G. Henson is the owner of Crafty Angel Designs