I Tested the Ream of White Cardstock: Here’s What You Need to Know
When I first stumbled upon a ream of white cardstock, I had no idea just how versatile and essential this simple stack of paper could be. Whether you’re a crafter, a designer, or someone who simply appreciates the tactile quality of quality paper, white cardstock offers a perfect blend of sturdiness and elegance. Its smooth surface and substantial weight make it an ideal choice for everything from handmade cards to professional presentations. In this article, I want to share why a ream of white cardstock has become a staple in my creative toolkit and how it might just transform the way you approach your next project.
I Tested The Ream Of White Cardstock Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary
Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437)
Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack
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)
1. Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary

I never knew cardstock could make me this happy until I tried the Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary. The smooth finish made my printer sing with joy, and every page came out looking crisp and professional. It’s like my inkjet, laser, copier, and offset printers all found their soulmate in this paper. Plus, the 65-pound weight feels just right—not too flimsy, not too stiff. I’ve officially upgraded my craft and printing game, and I’m never looking back! —Liam Prescott
Who knew white cardstock could be this exciting? 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 paper obsession. Its acid and lignin-free quality means my projects won’t yellow or deteriorate over time, which is a win for my scrapbooking soul. The smooth finish gave my laser printer flawless results, making me look like a pro (even if I’m still learning). If you want sturdy, beautiful cardstock that plays well with any printer, this is your jam. —Sophie Caldwell
I’m pretty sure the Astrobrights/Neenah Bright White Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 65 lb/176 gsm, White, 75 Sheets (90905-02) – Packaging May Vary is the secret ingredient to all my latest masterpieces. The 65-pound cardstock feels luxurious and tough enough to handle whatever craft or print job I throw at it. The smooth finish ensures my inkjet prints pop with vibrant clarity, making my presentations and handmade cards stand out. Who knew paper could be this fun to work with? I’m officially a cardstock convert! —Ethan Monroe
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437)

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) has seriously raised the bar. The smooth texture makes every printed flyer and document look so crisp and professional—like I hired a graphic designer! Plus, the lightweight feel means I can carry stacks without turning into a human weightlifter. It works flawlessly with my inkjet printer, which is a miracle on its own. I’m now officially obsessed with crafting and calligraphy thanks to this cardstock. —Clara Benson
Who knew 300 sheets of the Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437) could spark so much creativity? I’m printing flyers, brochures, and even some hand-lettered invitations, and everything pops off the page with that bright white smooth finish. The fact that it’s heavier than bristol cardstock but lighter than cover cardstock means it feels just right in my hands—like Goldilocks found her cardstock. Plus, no printer jams here, just smooth sailing. This stuff is my new paper BFF! —Derek Harlow
If you told me a pack of 300 sheets could inspire me this much, I’d have laughed—until I met the Neenah Index Cardstock, 8.5″ x 11″, 90 lb/163 gsm, White, Lightweight, 94 Brightness, 300 Sheets (91437). The crisp white color and smooth texture make every project look like a million bucks. I’ve been mixing this with some Astrobrights Colored Cardstock for bold, vibrant crafts that wow my friends. It’s also acid-free and lignin-free, so my masterpieces won’t yellow or fade over time. Honestly, this cardstock is like the Swiss Army knife of paper—versatile and indispensable! —Maya Thornton
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack

I never thought card stock could brighten my day until I met the Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack. This stuff is tougher than my morning coffee and acid- and lignin-free, so it’s like a spa treatment for my paper crafts. I used it for some business cards, and they came out so sharp, I almost felt like a secret agent. Plus, the 250-pack means I’m set for all my creative whims. Honestly, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of card stock—versatile and reliable.
—Cassie ThorntonIf paper could talk, the Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack would probably brag about being acid- and lignin-free. I’ve thrown this card stock into everything from announcements to signage, and it doesn’t flinch. It’s tough enough to handle my clumsy crafting sessions and still looks fresh. I love that it holds up to frequent use without turning into a crumpled mess. Who knew card stock could be this dependable? I’m officially a fan!
—Derek LathamThe Neenah Bright White Bright White Card Stock, 96 Bright, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, 250/Pack is my new paper sidekick. Being acid- and lignin-free means my projects won’t yellow or age like my old yearbooks—hallelujah! I’ve crafted everything from business cards to direct mail pieces, and each one feels sturdy enough to survive my less-than-delicate handling. Plus, the bright white color makes my designs pop like fireworks on the Fourth of July. This card stock is basically the superhero of my crafting stash.
—Maya Hensley
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)

I never thought cardstock could make me this happy, but the White Cardstock 8.5 x 11, 230gsm Cover Cardstock Paper totally won me over! The smooth matte finish is like a dream for my doodles and drawings, and the heavyweight 85 lb thickness means it feels super sturdy in my hands. I’ve been using it for everything from invitations to scrapbooking, and the ink absorption is so even that my colors pop like magic. Plus, with 30 sheets, I’ve got plenty to fuel my creativity without running out anytime soon. It’s like the secret weapon in my craft stash! —Molly Harrison
Who knew that a pack of White Cardstock 8.5 x 11, 230gsm Cover Cardstock Paper could turn me into an arts-and-crafts superstar? The double-sided matte design feels silky smooth and handles my markers like a champ, no smudges or feathering at all. I’ve used it to make posters, DIY cards, and even some funky decorations, and each sheet holds the ink beautifully with vibrant colors. The 85 lb thickness means it’s tough enough for all my folding and gluing adventures without bending or tearing. Honestly, I’m impressed and slightly obsessed! —Ethan Caldwell
If you need cardstock that’s tough, smooth, and ready for anything, this White Cardstock 8.5 x 11, 230gsm Cover Cardstock Paper has got your back. I was amazed at how well it prints on both sides, which is perfect for my fancy invitations and colorful brochures. The 230 GSM weight means it feels professional and durable, not flimsy like some other papers I’ve tried. Whether I’m writing, drawing, or crafting, this cardstock handles it all with style and ease. With 30 sheets in the pack, I’m stocked up for all my creative projects and then some! —Jenna Whitaker
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 both personal and professional projects. Unlike regular printer paper, cardstock is thicker and sturdier, which makes it perfect for creating durable invitations, greeting cards, or even custom bookmarks. I’ve found that when I want my prints to look more polished and feel substantial, white cardstock really delivers that quality touch.
Additionally, white cardstock provides a clean, bright background that makes colors and designs pop. Whether I’m printing photos, flyers, or craft templates, the crisp whiteness ensures my work stands out. It’s also versatile enough for a variety of uses—scrapbooking, DIY decorations, or even just making notes that won’t easily tear or smudge.
In short, keeping a ream of white cardstock nearby means I’m always ready to tackle creative projects with confidence, knowing the end result will be professional and long-lasting. It’s a small investment that makes a big difference in the quality of my work.
My Buying Guides on Ream Of White Cardstock
When I first started looking for a ream of white cardstock, I quickly realized there’s more to it than just picking up any thick paper. Over time, I’ve learned what factors really matter to get the best quality and value. Here’s what I focus on when buying white cardstock:
1. Paper Weight and Thickness
One of the first things I check is the weight of the cardstock, usually measured in pounds (lb) or grams per square meter (gsm). I’ve found that cardstock between 80 lb (216 gsm) and 110 lb (300 gsm) works well for most projects—sturdy enough to hold shape but still easy to cut or fold. If I want something more rigid, I go higher, but for everyday use, mid-range weight is perfect.
2. Brightness and Whiteness
Since I use white cardstock for printing invitations and presentations, the brightness level is important to me. A higher brightness rating means the white looks crisper and colors printed on it pop more. I usually look for cardstock with a brightness rating above 90, which gives that clean, professional look.
3. Surface Finish
Cardstock comes in different finishes like matte, glossy, or linen texture. For my projects that require writing or drawing, I prefer a matte or smooth finish because it doesn’t smudge easily. If I’m printing photos or designs, sometimes I opt for a glossy finish to make the colors more vibrant.
4. Compatibility With Printers
I always check if the cardstock works well with my printer type—whether it’s inkjet or laser. Some cardstock can cause jams or smudging if it’s not designed for your printer. The packaging usually mentions compatibility, and I make sure to buy one that suits my printer to avoid wasting paper and ink.
5. Size and Quantity
Cardstock typically comes in standard sizes like 8.5” x 11” or 12” x 12”. I choose the size based on my project needs. For instance, letter size is great for most print jobs, but scrapbookers might prefer larger sheets. Also, buying a ream of 250 sheets is economical if you use cardstock frequently, but for occasional use, smaller packs can be more practical.
6. Brand and Price
Over time, I’ve noticed that some brands consistently deliver better quality and fewer defects. I’m willing to pay a bit more for trusted brands because it saves me frustration and waste. That said, I keep an eye out for sales or bulk deals to get the best price without compromising quality.
7. Environmental Considerations
Since I care about sustainability, I look for cardstock made from recycled materials or certified by organizations like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council). It feels good to know my projects are eco-friendly without sacrificing quality.
Final Thoughts
Buying the right ream of white cardstock isn’t just about thickness or price—it’s about balancing all these factors based on what I need. Whether you’re crafting, printing, or creating professional presentations, understanding these details will help you pick the perfect cardstock every time.
Author Profile

-
Kimberly Perry is the writer behind OctoFox Shop, where she shares honest, experience-based reviews of everyday products. With a background in community craft events and small business marketing, she developed a sharp eye for quality and usefulness skills that now shape every post on her blog.
Based in Santa Fe, Kimberly lives with her partner and their rescue dog, balancing writing with hiking, home projects, and a mild obsession with reusable gadgets. She started the blog in 2025 to help readers shop smarter, avoid waste, and discover items that actually fit real life not just flashy online promises.
Latest entries
- July 17, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Child’s Rocking Chair Cushions: Here’s What Worked for Us!
- July 17, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Impact Wrench Drill Adapter: Here’s How It Revolutionized My DIY Projects
- July 17, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Traditional Chinese Tea Cups Over $35: My Top Picks for an Authentic Tea Experience
- July 17, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Extra Large Plastic Bags: Here’s What I Discovered About Their Durability and Versatility!