Cardstock

What Makes Cardstock Different from Regular Paper?

Weight. That's the key distinction. Standard printer paper sits around 80gsm: light, flimsy, and prone to buckling when you add ink, adhesive, or embellishments. Cardstock typically ranges from 160gsm to 300gsm, giving it the body and rigidity to hold its shape through layering, stamping, die-cutting, and everything else you throw at it.

That extra weight means it performs better under pressure, doesn't warp when wet adhesive is applied, holds a clean fold when scored, and gives embellishments something solid to sit on. For card making and scrapbooking especially, it's a must-have.

Types of Cardstock to Know

Not all cardstock paper is the same, and the right choice depends on your project.

• Solid core cardstock – Consistent in colour throughout, so cuts and torn edges don't show a white core. This is especially important for scrapbooking and layered designs where the edges are visible.
• Textured cardstock – Adds visual interest and a tactile quality that plain paper can't match. Linen, canvas, and laid textures work beautifully as backgrounds or mats in scrapbook layouts and handmade cards.
• Smooth cardstock – The go-to for stamping and printing. The flat surface picks up ink cleanly and gives you sharp, clear impressions, which is ideal if you're working with detailed stamps or printing photos to mount.
• Specialty finishes – Metallic, glitter, pearlescent, and kraft, add instant texture and shine to projects without needing extra embellishment. These are brilliant for card fronts, gift tags, and decorative accents.

What Can You Make with Cardstock?

The list is long. Cardstock is the primary material for card making, scrapbooking, paper crafting, journaling, bookbinding, gift wrapping, party décor, and paper florals. It works beautifully with die-cutting machines, stamps, ink pads, embossing tools, and watercolour, and layers well with patterned paper and single paper sheets for complex, textured projects.

If you're just getting started, our scrapbook kits are a great way to try coordinated combinations of cardstock and patterned paper in one go; the colour matching is done for you.

Buying Cardstock in Australia

Finding quality cardstock Australia-wide is easier than it used to be. At CraftOnline, we carry cardstock across a wide range of weights, finishes, colours, and sizes, from standard A4 and 12x12" sheets through to specialty formats. Whether you want to stock up on neutrals, build a seasonal colour palette, or grab a specific shade to match a project, you'll find it here.

We stock trusted brands and carry a rotating range of colours and finishes, so it's worth checking back regularly if you're after something specific. Buying in larger quantities also makes sense if you go through cardstock quickly; it's always handy to have your core colours on hand.

Once your collection grows, keep it organised and protected with our range of cardstock paper storage solutions, because nothing's worse than bent corners or a colour you can't find when you need it.

Shop Cardstock at CraftOnline

CraftOnline is one of Australia's largest online art and craft shops, carrying over 700 brands and 50,000 products across every craft category. If you're building out your paper crafting supplies, we're your one-stop shop, from cardstock and patterned paper to adhesives, cutting tools, and storage.

Great everyday prices, and a range that keeps growing. Browse the cardstock collection above, or explore the rest of our art and craft shop to find what you're looking for.