DIY Tip - Paper

PAPER WEIGHT Paper is sold in #, or pounds.  The paper weight you choose should be compatible with the type of printing you choose and the type of design it's being used for.

• Standard paper is typically 24 - 38#, cardstock is 64 - 110#
• Anything up to 80# should run through just about any inkjet or laser printer (or a Kinko’s/print shop).  The exception is the metallic paper, which does not print well with inkjet printers.  The ink tends to smear.  Although, the laser printers work like a dream with the metallic papers.
• Up to 100# should run through your laser printer if you change the settings to “cardstock.”  Most of the shimmery/metallic paper you see is this weight, and does work with the laser printers.
• Anything over 110# should be printed on a press.
• If your paper is highly textured or handmade, printing may not turn out very well.  To achieve the best results on highly textured or handmade paper, send your job to a letterpress printer.
• ALWAYS have the proofs printed on the type of paper you plan to use.  Colors may soak into certain papers more or less, leaving the color skewed.
• Loose inserts and loose invites should be printed on a heavy cardstock, 80# or more.