Best Cover Stock Paper of 2026

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2026

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Cover stock paper is a high-quality paper that is commonly used for creating professional documents, presentations, and marketing materials. It is thicker and more durable than regular printer paper, and is available in a variety of weights and finishes. Cover stock paper is perfect for creating business cards, brochures, flyers, and book covers, as it provides a sturdy base for printing and ensures that the final product looks polished and professional. With its smooth, glossy finish and vibrant colors, cover stock paper is a popular choice for anyone looking to create high-quality printed materials.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Joyberg 8.5 x 11 White Cardstock Cover #TOP 1
Joyberg 8.5 x 11 White Cardstock
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Cranium Press 80 lb Cardstock Cover #TOP 2
Cranium Press 80 lb Cardstock
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Aidunmis 40 Sheets Cream Cardstock 8.5x11 Cover #TOP 3
Aidunmis 40 Sheets Cream Cardstock 8.5x11
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Cover Stock Paper

#TOP 1

Joyberg 8.5 x 11 White Cardstock

09SJZ0001
white
Joyberg 8.5 x 11 White Cardstock Cover
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)

This Joyberg White Cardstock is designed for a variety of creative projects. Made from heavyweight 85 lb paper, it features a smooth matte finish that enhances your writing and drawing experience. Whether you are crafting invitations or posters, the double-sided design allows for smooth pen strokes with various writing instruments. It is printer-friendly and perfect for producing vibrant images and detailed illustrations. With 30 sheets in the package, you have plenty of cardstock to bring your artistic ideas to life, making it ideal for personal projects, school assignments, or business communications.

What We Like
High-quality, heavy paper
Smooth matte finish
Printer-friendly
Versatile for various projects
#TOP 2

Cranium Press 80 lb Cardstock

790-1142011
white
8.5 x 11 inches
Cranium Press 80 lb Cardstock Cover
50 Sheets of Heavyweight White Cardstock Ideal for Business Cards, Art Projects, Invitations, and Stationery Printing | 80 lb Weight | 8.5 x 11 inches | Thick Cover Stock (216 gsm) |

This Cranium Press Cardstock is perfect for a variety of projects, including invitations, business cards, and menus. Its heavyweight design ensures vibrant prints with excellent ink holdout, so your colors will appear bolder and more realistic. You can easily print at home, school, or the office, making it convenient for all your printing needs. Plus, this cardstock is strong enough for die-cutting and folding, giving you the flexibility to create professional-looking items with ease.

What We Like
High-quality printability
Strong and durable
Ideal for various projects
Vibrant color enhancement
#TOP 3

Aidunmis 40 Sheets Cream Cardstock 8.5x11

8.5x11-Card-Stock-40-Cream
Cream (Milkywhite)
8.5x11 IN-40 Sheets
Aidunmis 40 Sheets Cream Cardstock 8.5x11 Cover
40 Sheets Cream Cardstock Paper 8.5 x 11, Ivory Cardstock Printer Paper 8.5x11, Off White Card Stock Paper 8.5 x 11, 200 GSM Construction Paper for DIY Cards, Greeting Cards, Wedding Invitations

The Aidunmis Cream Cardstock offers 40 sheets of high-quality, 8.5 x 11-inch cream-colored paper that’s perfect for your creative projects. Its smooth finish helps your designs look polished, making it great for invitations and photo frames. The thick 200 GSM paper is durable and double-sided, so you won’t have to worry about ink bleeding through—ideal for writing or artwork. Plus, it works well with both inkjet and laser printers, so you can print sharp, vibrant images or text with ease. This cardstock is a reliable choice for crafting, printing, and more.

What We Like
Thick, durable 200 GSM paper
Double-sided, prevents ink bleed
Smooth, professional finish
Compatible with inkjet and laser
Versatile cream color
#TOP 4

Extra Heavy Duty 130lb Cover Cardstock - Bright White - 350gsm 17pt Thick Paper

59213
White
15 Pack
Extra Heavy Duty 130lb Cover Cardstock - Bright White - 350gsm 17pt Thick Paper Cover
Extra Heavy Duty 130lb Cover Cardstock - Bright White - 350gsm 17pt Thick Paper for Inkjet & Laser Printers - 8-1/2" x 11" - 15 Pack

Introducing the Desktop Publishing Supplies Cardstock, a high-quality, extra thick paper designed for a variety of uses. With its 130lb cover stock and smooth matte finish, this cardstock is perfect for invitations, postcards, covers, and business cards. Not only can it be used for printing professional-quality projects with inkjet and laser printers, but it also serves as a sturdy protective backing for your photos or artwork. Made in the USA and measuring 8 1/2" x 11", this cardstock is printable with printers that can handle 130lb cover stock. Please consult your printer manual before purchasing to ensure compatibility. Upgrade your printing experience with the Desktop Publishing Supplies Cardstock.

What We Like
Extra thick and durable
Printable with inkjet and laser printers
Perfect for invitations, postcards, and business cards
#TOP 5

Desktop Publishing Supplies 250 Sheets Cream Legal Cardstock

59306-250
Cream
250 Pack
Desktop Publishing Supplies 250 Sheets Cream Legal Cardstock Cover
250 Sheets Cream Colored Legal Size Cardstock (8.5 X 14 Inches) - 65lb Cover

The Desktop Publishing Cream Cardstock offers 250 sheets of double-sided, natural cream-colored paper sized at 8.5 by 14 inches, ideal for legal documents or creative projects. Made from sturdy 65lb cover cardstock, it provides a durable surface that works well with inkjet, laser, and copier printers, giving you flexibility for various printing needs. Whether you're crafting wedding programs, restaurant menus, or important documents, this cardstock delivers a professional look. Its legal size and quality make it easy to handle and perfect for both single-use and reusable applications when laminated, adding convenience to your printing tasks.

What We Like
Double-sided cream color
Legal size dimensions
Compatible with multiple printers
Durable 65lb cardstock
250 sheets per pack
#TOP 6

Astrobrights Solar Yellow Cardstock 65 lb

22731
Solar Yellow
Astrobrights Solar Yellow Cardstock 65 lb Cover
Astrobrights Color Cardstock, 65 lb Cover Weight, 8.5 x 11, Solar Yellow, 250/Pack

The Astrobrights Yellow Cardstock is perfect for making your projects stand out with its bright, eye-catching color. Whether you're creating postcards, booklet covers, or presentation bindings, this cardstock helps you add a vibrant touch to your paper crafts. It works smoothly with inkjet, laser, and copier printers, giving you the flexibility to print your designs easily. Plus, it's acid- and lignin-free, which means your projects will stay bright and last longer without yellowing or deteriorating over time. This cardstock is a great choice if you want durable, colorful paper that delivers professional results.

What We Like
Vibrant bold color
Versatile for various crafts
Compatible with multiple printers
Acid- and lignin-free
#TOP 7

Hamilco White Glossy Cardstock Paper

8364
white
100lb cover
Hamilco White Glossy Cardstock Paper Cover
Hamilco White Glossy Cardstock Paper 8 1/2 x 11" 100 lb Cover Card Stock 50 Pack

Hamilco White Glossy Cardstock Paper is a top-quality, thick, and durable paper perfect for printing with laser printers. The 8.5" x 11" heavyweight cardstock has a shiny gloss finish on both sides with 96 brightness, making it ideal for various uses such as brochures, awards, restaurant menus, photos, and stationery. It comes in a secure box packaging, and the product offers a 100% cash back guarantee if you are not satisfied.

What We Like
High-quality and durable cardstock paper
Shiny gloss finish on both sides
Secure box packaging
#TOP 8

Astrobrights Cardstock

21408
White
Astrobrights Cardstock Cover
Astrobrights® Card Stock, Stardust White, Letter (8.5" x 11"), 65 Lb, Pack Of 250

Create impressive presentation covers, cards, and brochures with Astrobrights 65 Lb. Cardstock. This sturdy paper offers durability and a distinctive feel, making your printed materials stand out. Not only does it save on full-color ink, but it also acts as the perfect canvas for your designs. Compatible with most printers, copiers, and all-in-ones, this versatile cardstock is ideal for a wide range of printing needs. With its Stardust White color, it's perfect for covers, business cards, brochures, and more! Elevate your professional materials with the Astrobrights 65 Lb. Cardstock.

What We Like
Durable
Versatile
Ink-saving
#TOP 9

Hamilco White Cardstock Thick Paper - 50 Pack

9180
White
50 Pack
Hamilco White Cardstock Thick Paper - 50 Pack Cover
Hamilco White Cardstock Thick Paper 8 1/2 x 11" Heavy Weight 120 lb Cover Card Stock - 50 Pack

Hamilco White Cardstock Thick Paper is a great quality, acid-free and durable cover paper that is made in the USA. The 8.5" x 11" heavyweight 120 lb cover cardstock has a 96 brightness and comes in a securely packaged box for convenient storage. It is perfect for various uses such as brochures, awards, restaurant menus, greeting cards, and stationery. However, this ultra-thick card stock may not be compatible with most printers, so check with your printer before purchasing. The product also comes with a 100% cashback guarantee.

What We Like
Great quality, acid-free and durable paper
Securely packaged in a box for convenient storage
Perfect for various uses, such as brochures, awards, restaurant menus, greeting cards, and stationery
#TOP 10

JRVT Bubbley White Shimmer Metallic Cardstock 100-Pack

BY2007201911
White
8.5x11
JRVT Bubbley White Shimmer Metallic Cardstock 100-Pack Cover
Bubbley White Shimmer Paper - 100-Pack Metallic Cardstock Paper, 92 lb Cover, Double Sided, Printer Friendly - Perfect for Weddings, Birthdays, Craft Use, Letter Size Sheets, 8.5 x 11 Inches

The JRVT White Shimmer Cardstock offers 100 sheets of thick, 92 lb double-sided metallic white paper, giving your projects a unique and elegant shimmer on both sides. Whether you're printing, writing by hand, or crafting, you’ll find these sheets easy to use, compatible with laser and inkjet printers, and even suitable for Cricut Maker machines. This versatile cardstock is perfect for scrapbooking, invitations, certificates, and more, allowing you to create professional-looking and personalized designs. Ideal for special events like weddings and birthdays, these shimmering sheets help you add a touch of sophistication to your decorations, notes, or announcements.

What We Like
Double-sided shimmer finish
Thick 92 lb cardstock
Printer and handwriting friendly
Compatible with Cricut Maker
Versatile for events and crafts
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is cover stock paper?

Cover stock paper refers to heavier and thicker paper stocks like Bristol, Index, Tag, and Card paper. It is more durable than Text paper and is often used for materials that require more rigidity, such as folders, business cards, posters, and invitations. Cover stock paper can have a smooth or textured surface and needs to be scored before folding.

2. Is cover stock paper the same as cardstock?

Yes, cover stock paper and cardstock are interchangeable terms that refer to heavy-weight paper. They are both thick and sturdy, suitable for various applications. Whether you call it cover stock or cardstock, it is the same type of paper.

3. What is 80 cover stock paper?

80 cover stock paper, also known as 80lb cover or 260 GSM, is slightly sturdier than thin cardstock. It is commonly used for business cards, posters, greeting cards, invitations, table tents, folders, and tickets. This weight provides a good balance of durability and flexibility for these types of deliverables.

4. What is the difference between cover stock and text weight paper?

Cover stock paper is thicker and sturdier than text weight paper. It is comparable to the material used for cereal boxes and can be coated or uncoated. Text weight paper, on the other hand, is lighter and thinner. The distinction between cover stock and text weight paper is important to consider when choosing paper for printing projects, especially for books with saddle stitch binding.

5. Is 80lb or 100lb paper thicker?

The 100lb paper is thicker than the 80lb paper. Both are glossy text papers made from the same raw materials and production equipment. The 100lb paper is approximately 25% heavier than the 80lb paper, making it thicker and more substantial.

6. What is the difference between book stock and cover stock?

Cover stock paper is sturdier and thicker, while text stock paper is lighter and thinner. A stack of 100 cover paper sheets will be thicker than a stack of 100 text paper sheets. This difference is important to consider, especially when printing books with saddle stitch binding.

7. Is cover stock or card stock thicker?

Cover stock is thicker than card stock. Card stock typically has a thickness of 0.010", similar to the weight of a 140lb Index stock. In comparison, 12 pt cover stock is 0.012" thick, equivalent to the weight of a 100lb cover stock.

8. How thick is cover stock paper?

The thickness of cover stock paper is measured in points, with one point equal to 1/1000 (.001) inches. For example, a 10pt cover stock paper will be 0.010 inches thick.

9. Which paper is heavier, 80 or 100?

The 100lb paper is heavier than the 80lb paper. Both are glossy text papers made from the same raw materials and production equipment. The 100lb paper is approximately 25% heavier than the 80lb paper, making it thicker and more substantial.

10. What is the difference between 80lb cover and text?

80lb cover paper and 80lb text paper have the same pound rating, but the cover paper is approximately twice as heavy as the text paper. When ordering paper stock, it is important to consider the weight to ensure you get the desired thickness and sturdiness for your project.

Editor's Notes

During our cover stock paper research, we found 24 cover stock paper products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 31,438 customer reviews through our big data system to write the cover stock paper list. We found that most customers choose cover stock paper with an average price of $15.24.

The cover stock paper are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of cover stock paper, including Joyberg, Cranium Press, Aidunmis, Desktop Publishing Supplies, Astrobrights. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 2,555 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.