Selecting the Right Paper for Your Printable Wedding Signs and Stationery

For the DIY Bride, printable wedding signs and stationery are the perfect option to stay in budget without compromising quality. Artful Life offers many ready-to-print and editable wedding printables.

You have several printing options which you can read about in our tutorial: How To Print Your Wedding Signs and Stationery, but before you print, you need to select the paper that best meets your needs and style.

If you’re printing at home, it’s essential that you select a paper that is compatible with your printer. For signs that you’ll frame or mount, 65-100 lb cover (card stock) will work fine. For other stationery, such as flat invitations, programs or menus, 100-130 lb cover will work well. 65-80 lb. cover can be used for folded invitations or programs. NOTE: If you decide to use paper over 110 lb. cover, you may have problems with it feeding through your printer, so checking compatibility first is very important!

You may find a paper with a weight listed as “PT” (such as 16 PT). Most business cards are printed on 14 or 16 PT paper to give you an idea of weight. 18 PT is extra heavy paper and probably not a great choice.

Paper finish is also a big consideration. Uncoated cotton paper generally takes ink very well. A smooth, coated paper can give a more elegant look, but may not work with all printers.

If you use a copy shop, contact them ahead to find out what paper types and weights they offer or can accept from you. Using heavier weight paper for invitations could also change the amount of postage needed, so keep that in mind when selecting paper. Your copy shop should be able to show you paper samples they have available, but will usually let you supply your own paper if you wish.

One of our favorite papers is Staples 110 lb. white, 92 bright, card stock. You can purchase 250 letter size sheets for under $20, so it’s also economical.

For a rustic look, brown Kraft paper is a great choice. If you're looking for specialty papers or colors, check out our online resource links below.

PAPER RESOURCES

• Staples
• Office Depot
• Cards and Pockets
• Cardstock Warehouse
• The Paper Mill Store
• Papersource
• PaperPapers
• Cut Card Stock

Whatever your style, get paper samples first to ensure the paper you choose will work with your printer and yield the results you want. Choosing the right paper will ensure your wedding signs and stationery are perfect for your special day!

For more information, please read our FAQs, stop by our Tutorials Page or Contact Us with questions!