All about card stock weight

There is a lot of talk about card stocks when discussing wedding invitation design.  A heavier card stock is always recommended but there are also double thick card stocks available.  Here are some of the most common card stock weights.  All weights mentioned are cover weight, not text (it makes a big difference).

1. 80lb- this is the card stock that you get standard at Vistaprint.  It is about the weight and sturdiness of a cheap greeting card.  I personally HATE this card stock.  It is very thin and feels very cheap to me.  The only redeeming quality of this card stock is if you are layering (i.e. putting the invitation on a mat or a pocket) but I still prefer to use a 100lb card stock for that.
2. 100lb- slightly better than the 80lb but still not ideal.  Invitations at this weight will be thicker than 80lb and this is a good weight for layering and will make for a lighter invitation when mailing but still a little thin in my opinion for a stand-alone invitation.
3. 110lb- this is the standard base card stock you get with big online retailers like Shutterfly or Minted.  By industry standard this is typically the lowest card stock weight a wedding stationery designer will use.  There are also options for card stock textures at this weight.
4. 120lb- This is the standard card stock I use for many of my designs.  The thickness makes the invitations very sturdy and adds to the quality feeling when you hold it.  Many textures are also available in this weight.
5. 130lb- Usually a textured card stock.  Because of the texture it may feel very similar to the 120lb and depending on the texture it may be more flexible than the 120lb without a texture.
6. Double thick card stocks (200lb, 220lb, 240lb)- these are made by pressing together 2 of the 100lb, 110lb, or 120lb during the milling process.  These are very thick and therefore can be difficult to print on.  It takes a special machine to print on these or to use letterpress.  All of these will have a textured appearance because of the milling process.  These are the preferred stocks for letterpress.  These will be significantly more expensive than the other card stocks and may cost more to mail depending on your specific suite.

When choosing the paperweight for your stationery know that the heavier the weight the sturdier the card stock will be.  I always use a minimum of 120lb card stock for my clients because of the high quality feel you get with it.  Let's discuss the card stock weight that is best for your wedding stationery!

Keywords: wedding, wedding budget, wedding invitations, invitation design, invitation, save the date, card stock