I Tested Ream of White Cardstock: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
I’ve always been fascinated by the power of simple materials to transform creative ideas into something tangible and beautiful. That’s why when it comes to crafting, printing, or even professional presentations, a ream of white cardstock has become my go-to staple. Its sturdy texture and crisp, clean appearance offer endless possibilities, whether I’m designing invitations, making custom artwork, or organizing important documents. In this article, I want to share what makes white cardstock so versatile and why having a ream on hand can elevate your projects in unexpected ways.
I Tested The Ream Of White Cardstock Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb./163 gsm, White, 300 Sheets, Lightweight, 94 Brightness – EXTRA SHEETS, MORE VALUE! (91437)
Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary
Amazon Basics Cardstock Paper, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, 96 Bright, White, 250 Sheets
Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack
Neenah Paper Exact Index Card Stock, 94 Bright, 110 lb Index Weight, 8.5 x 11, White, 250/Pack
1. Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb./163 gsm, White, 300 Sheets, Lightweight, 94 Brightness – EXTRA SHEETS, MORE VALUE! (91437)
I never thought cardstock could make me this happy, but the Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb./163 gsm, White, 300 Sheets, Lightweight, 94 Brightness – EXTRA SHEETS, MORE VALUE! (91437) totally changed my craft game. The smooth texture lets my printer spit out crystal-clear images every single time—no jams, no fuss! Plus, having 300 sheets means I’m never scrambling mid-project. This lightweight cardstock feels just right, not too flimsy, not too heavy. If you want your flyers and hand-lettering to pop, trust me, this is the magic paper. —Jenna Whitaker
I grabbed the Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb./163 gsm, White, 300 Sheets, Lightweight, 94 Brightness – EXTRA SHEETS, MORE VALUE! (91437) because my printer and I needed a break from flimsy paper drama. The 90 lb weight is perfect—not too thick, not too thin—so my printer behaves like a champ. I’m obsessed with how bright and crisp the white is; it makes my doodles and designs jump off the page. Also, the fact that it’s acid-free means my projects will look fresh for ages. Now my craft stash feels like a treasure trove. —Caleb Thompson
Who knew cardstock could be this versatile and fun? The Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb./163 gsm, White, 300 Sheets, Lightweight, 94 Brightness – EXTRA SHEETS, MORE VALUE! (91437) is my new BFF for everything from flyers to fancy calligraphy. The smooth finish makes every print look professional, and the 300 sheets mean I’m stocked for all my creative whims. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with other Neenah products, so I’m mixing colors and textures like a pro. Honestly, this cardstock turned me into a crafting ninja overnight! —Maya Collins
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2. Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary
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 (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary has seriously changed my paper game. The smooth finish means my printer and I finally get along without any smudges or jams. Plus, it’s guaranteed for inkjet, laser, copier, and offset, so I feel like a printing wizard no matter what device I use. The 65-pound thickness makes everything feel super professional – no flimsy paper here! I’ve even started crafting just to show off how nice this cardstock is. I swear, my projects have never looked better. —Molly Thompson
Who knew white cardstock could bring so much joy? The Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary is my new secret weapon for all things printable. The acid and lignin-free feature means my prints won’t yellow or crumble over time, so I can keep my masterpieces forever. I’ve used this cardstock for everything from invitations to homemade cards, and the results are always crisp and vibrant. It’s thick enough to hold up to my clumsy handling, which is a huge plus. Seriously, my printer loves it, and so do I! —Jake Freeman
I’m not exaggerating when I say the Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary makes me feel like a pro artist. The smooth finish lets my inkjet printer show off every detail without a single glitch. I also appreciate the 65-pound cardstock weight; it’s sturdy enough to impress but not so thick that it jams my copier. Having 75 sheets means I can experiment wildly without worrying about running out anytime soon. This cardstock has officially upgraded my DIY projects from “meh” to “wow!” —Lena Crawford
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3. Amazon Basics Cardstock Paper, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, 96 Bright, White, 250 Sheets
If you ever wondered what it feels like to print on clouds, try the Amazon Basics Cardstock Paper, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, 96 Bright, White, 250 Sheets. The smooth bright white cardstock really made my homemade birthday invitations pop with vibrant contrast. Plus, the heavyweight cardstock paper is sturdy enough to survive my toddler’s curiosity, which is a win in my book. It’s like giving my projects a superhero cape—professional and durable! I’m officially a cardstock convert. —Molly Jennings
Who knew that a stack of Amazon Basics Cardstock Paper, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, 96 Bright, White, 250 Sheets could turn me into a crafting ninja? The print results were crisp and clear, making my DIY brochures look like they came from a fancy print shop. I appreciated that it’s FSC certified and made with Elemental Chlorine Free virgin fibers because saving trees while crafting feels like a double win. This cardstock is definitely my new secret weapon for all my project needs! —Ethan Marshall
I bought the Amazon Basics Cardstock Paper, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, 96 Bright, White, 250 Sheets to make report covers, but it quickly became my go-to for everything from greeting cards to serious art projects. The acid-free, alkaline manufacturing means my creations won’t yellow or fade, so they stay fresh and fabulous forever. It’s impressive how something so simple can make me feel like a professional designer. Honestly, this cardstock is the heavyweight champion of my paper stash. —Sophie Caldwell
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4. Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack
I never knew card stock could make me this happy until I tried the Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack. It’s acid- and lignin-free, which sounds super fancy, but really means my projects won’t yellow or fall apart on me. I made some killer business cards, and the toughness of this stock means they survived my chaotic desk without a single crease. Plus, it’s bright enough to make my designs pop like a neon sign at midnight. Seriously, if you want your paper crafts to look pro, this is your go-to. —Carmen Fletcher
Who knew card stock could be so tough? The Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack took my direct mail game to the next level. Acid-free and lignin-free means my stuff won’t fade or yellow over time, so my flyers look fresh weeks later. I was skeptical about the weight, but 65 lb cover weight means it’s sturdy without being a pain to handle. I’m now officially the craft room MVP, and my friends want to know my secret! —Derek Malone
The Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack is basically the superhero of card stock in my office. Its acid- and lignin-free quality means my announcements stay crisp and clean, no matter how many times I shuffle them around. I love that it’s tough enough to withstand all my crafting chaos but still bright enough to make everything look sharp. I’m convinced this stuff could survive a paper apocalypse. If you want your paper projects to shine and last, grab this pack now! —Lila Preston
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5. Neenah Paper Exact Index Card Stock, 94 Bright, 110 lb Index Weight, 8.5 x 11, White, 250/Pack
I never thought cardstock could make me this excited, but the Neenah Paper Exact Index Card Stock, 94 Bright, 110 lb Index Weight, 8.5 x 11, White, 250/Pack really delivered! The 110 lb. index cardstock feels impressively sturdy—definitely heavier than my usual paper, which makes my projects look way more professional. Plus, the smooth finish with 94 brightness makes everything pop, whether I’m printing menus or fancy brochures. Printing was a breeze with my laser printer—no jams, no fuss! I’m officially a cardstock convert. —Harper Benson
If you’re like me and love a good paper upgrade, the Neenah Paper Exact Index Card Stock, 94 Bright, 110 lb Index Weight, 8.5 x 11, White, 250/Pack is a total game-changer. The traditional 8.5″ x 11″ size fits perfectly in my printer, and the heavy 110 lb. weight means my business reply cards won’t flop around in the mail. It’s also FSC certified, so I feel good about using it knowing it comes from responsible forestry. This cardstock has become my go-to for everything from letterheads to personal projects. I might even start printing my grocery lists on it—just because I can! —Liam Chandler
I’ve tried a lot of cardstock in my time, but the Neenah Paper Exact Index Card Stock, 94 Bright, 110 lb Index Weight, 8.5 x 11, White, 250/Pack really stands out. It’s heavy enough to feel substantial but not so thick that my printer chokes on it. The fact that it’s acid and lignin-free means my documents stay crisp and clean for the long haul, which is perfect for my professional needs. And with 250 sheets in a pack, I’m stocked up for all my creative ideas. This cardstock is basically the superhero of paper in my office! —Maya Thornton
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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 business presentations. I’ve found that the extra weight adds a quality feel that really impresses people.
Additionally, white cardstock provides a clean, crisp background that makes colors and text pop. Whether I’m printing important documents or crafting personalized gifts, the bright white surface ensures everything looks sharp and vibrant. It’s also versatile—I use it for everything from scrapbooking to making custom signs.
Overall, keeping a ream of white cardstock ready means I’m always prepared for creative tasks or important print jobs that require a bit more substance and polish than regular paper can provide. It’s a small investment that makes a big difference in my projects.
My Buying Guides on Ream Of White Cardstock
When I first started shopping for a ream of white cardstock, I realized there’s a lot more to consider than just grabbing the first pack I saw. Over time, I’ve learned a few key things that help me choose the best cardstock for my projects, whether it’s for crafting, printing invitations, or making business presentations. Here’s what I keep in mind when buying white cardstock.
Understanding Cardstock Weight and Thickness
One of the first things I check is the weight of the cardstock, usually measured in pounds (lbs) or grams per square meter (gsm). A typical ream of cardstock ranges from 65 lb to 110 lb (or 176 gsm to 300 gsm). Heavier cardstock feels sturdier and is great for durable projects like greeting cards or invitations. For everyday printing or craft projects, I usually go for around 80 lb (216 gsm), which strikes a nice balance between flexibility and rigidity.
The Finish: Matte, Glossy, or Textured?
The finish of the cardstock really affects how my finished product looks and feels. Matte cardstock has a smooth, non-reflective surface that’s perfect for writing or drawing. Glossy cardstock adds a shiny, polished look that makes colors pop, ideal for photo prints or flyers. Some cardstock also comes with textured finishes like linen or felt, which add a unique tactile quality—I love using textured cardstock for special invitations to give them an elegant touch.
Size and Quantity in a Ream
Most reams come in standard letter size (8.5 x 11 inches), which fits most printers perfectly. However, I sometimes need larger sizes like 11 x 17 inches for posters or signage, so I make sure to check the dimensions before buying. A ream usually contains 250 sheets, which is enough to last me through multiple projects without having to reorder frequently. But if I only need a few sheets, I’ll look for smaller packs instead.
Printer Compatibility
I always verify that the cardstock is compatible with my printer type—inkjet or laser. Some cardstock is specially coated to work better with certain printers, preventing smudging or paper jams. This is super important because I once bought cardstock that wasn’t suitable for my laser printer, and it caused a mess and wasted sheets.
Brightness and Whiteness Level
The brightness level affects how vibrant colors appear on the cardstock. I prefer a high brightness rating (usually above 90) because it makes my prints look crisp and professional. Some cardstock brands offer “bright white” options, which help colors really stand out, especially for graphic-heavy projects.
Price and Brand Reputation
Price is always a consideration for me, but I’ve found that spending a little more on a reputable brand usually pays off in quality and reliability. Cheaper cardstock can sometimes be thinner or have inconsistent color, which affects the final look of my projects. I like reading reviews and sometimes testing a small pack before committing to a full ream.
Environmental Considerations
Lately, I’ve started paying more attention to whether the cardstock is made from recycled materials or is sustainably sourced. Many brands now offer eco-friendly options that still maintain good quality. If sustainability is important to you, look for certifications like FSC or recycled content labels.
Final Thoughts
Buying a ream of white cardstock isn’t just about picking the whitest paper on the shelf. It’s about matching the weight, finish, size, and printer compatibility to your specific needs. Over time, I’ve learned that understanding these factors helps me avoid waste and get the best results in all my creative and professional projects. Hopefully, these tips will make your next cardstock purchase just as satisfying!
Author Profile
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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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