Many times, people will have questions about choosing the best paper forpostcards. They want to know which is the best paper for postcards, and whether or not thatpostcard material will have a matte or glossy finish.
Depending on your use for postcards, there can be many different variations on the best paper for postcards. The important part about choosing paper for postcards is to know exactly the specifications you want on your postcards before choosing a postcard paper type.
Once you have a design and paper dimensions,as well as coating specifications and the number of sides you want yourpostcards to have, it gets easier to choose the best paper for postcards.
Whatis the best paper for postcards?
The “best” paper for postcards depends heavily upon your use for postcards. The most common paper types are:
100 lb Cover Gloss
14 pt “Extra Thick” Cardstock
16 pt “Ultra Thick” Cardstock
Premium Linen Cardstock
100 lb Cover Gloss
For cards that will have a limited use, it might be best to order 100 lb Cover Gloss because it is the most cost effective. However, it is also the thinnest postcard paper type offered, so it does run the risk of being bent easier than other options. This makes this paper type perfect for packaging inserts! Add a thank you card into your customers shipping box order or a coupon to come back in their bag.
14 and 16 pt Cardstock
Historically, postcards are generally printed on a standard 16 pt “ultra thick” semi-gloss paper stock because of the luxurious feel, quality, and durability. Since this is the thickest paper type, it will last the longest. Send a limited to-go menu of your most popular items or a calendar to hang on their fridge.
Printivity also offers a 14 pt “extra thick” cardstock for postcards when you want a thick card, but want to be keep the price down. 14 pt cardstock might not be as thick, but it’s still a durable and reliable paper type. These two postcard paper types are the thickest options available at Printivity and the recommended choice if you plan to mail your postcards.
Premium Linen Cardstock
Linen cardstock is the only textured paper option for postcards. This premium paper not only looks and feels luxurious but will instantly impress your customers. Linen cardstock is not heavy enough to be sent through USPS. We recommend using them for special occasions or for customers. Use this linen paper for appointment reminders and exclusive events. Your customer won’t ever want to toss that postcard out!
If you were looking for a bright and shiny addition to make your postcards stand out, adding a UV gloss finish to your postcard paper would be a great way to grab your customers’ attention. You can also use color and stylized art to make your postcards stand out.
Rounded corner customization will instantly make your postcard stand out in a stack of mail. Use every advantage that you have to get ahead in a competitive advertising market!
Contactus to get the best paper for postcards
No matter what size postcard you’re looking for, our customer service team can help you determine the best postcard paper to use for your project.
Plus, Printivity also has theRush Critical shipping option. Instead of waiting days or weeks for your postcards, you can get them shipped to your address as soon as possible. If you’re in a time crunch, Rush Critical is your solution!
Contact us todayat service@printivity.com so that we can help you choose the best paper for postcards.
The thicker the cardstocks are, the more they can withstand overhandling during the mailing process. 14 pt. cardstocks are the standard thickness for postcards, but if you will be mailing your cards to multiple locations, we recommend the 16 pt. cardstock as the best option.
The thicker the cardstocks are, the more they can withstand overhandling during the mailing process. 14 pt. cardstocks are the standard thickness for postcards, but if you will be mailing your cards to multiple locations, we recommend the 16 pt. cardstock as the best option.
It is a heavy 14 pt stock well suited for detailed, crisp printing without sacrificing the ability to write on the paper. You can also get UV coating on the front of a dull/matte card to add pop to the side that isn't needed for writing. This is a popular choice for postcards.
Postcards must be of uniform thickness and made of unfolded and uncreased paper or card stock of approximately the same quality and weight of stamped cards. Postcards may be formed of one piece of paper or card stock, or two pieces of paper that are permanently and uniformly bonded together.
Business Cards and Postcards are printed on 300gsm + and Flyers and Brochures are usually printed on 150gsm. We have included some most common paper weights and what they are used for below to help assist you in choosing the paper weight for your next project.
The next step up from this would be 110 lb cardstock which weighs 360gms/m2 or 500 sheets to a ream - this type of paper can also be used for invitations, but it's more commonly found in postcards and handmade greeting cards.
65lb cover (176 GSM): on the thinner end of cardstock, this cardstock thickness is often used for posters, menus, greeting cards, postcards, tickets, and other crafts.
But to qualify for mailing at the First-Class Mail postcard price, it must be: Rectangular. At least 3-1/2 inches high x 5 inches long x 0.007 inch thick. No more than 4-1/4 inches high x 6 inches long x 0.016 inches thick.
350-450gsm – This is a thick card-like stock that's harder to bend. It's used for a range of different print materials such as business cards, greetings cards, postcards and table talkers.
The 80 lb paper is commonly used for cardmaking and is sturdy enough to use for your standard card base as long as you don't add too many layers. It's also a great thickness for creating embellishments with your craft paper punch and die cutting machine.
However, a 16pt cardstock has a much thicker profile, measuring 0.016 inches thick. This thicker cardstock gives your business cards a more premium feel that sets them apart from competitors. It's also more durable and will stand up better against wear and tear, making it a great option for cards that need to last.
To put it simply, cardstock is a thicker and more durable type of paper. It is more flexible and thinner than paperboard and cardboard, making it perfect for arts and crafts. Since it is heavier and sturdier than standard or regular paper, it is also the best choice for paper crafting and card making.
Historically, postcards are generally printed on a standard 16 pt “ultra thick” semi-gloss paper stock because of the luxurious feel, quality, and durability. Since this is the thickest paper type, it will last the longest.
Index cards, posters, brochures, and magazines all have specific paper weight recommendations for optimal performance. For postcards, a weight range of 80-110 lb. cover stock (216-297 gsm) or 9-14 mil / pt is recommended to ensure they withstand handling and mailing conditions.
14pt. “extra thick” paper is one of the most common cardstocks available for printing. The thickness is about 0.39mm thick, which makes it ideal for business cards, postcards, and other firm-like quality print products. 14pt.
For postcards, a weight range of 80-110 lb. cover stock (216-297 gsm) or 9-14 mil / pt is recommended to ensure they withstand handling and mailing conditions. This weight range strikes a balance between durability and affordability for most postcard projects.
350-450 GSM – The highest GSM paper is pretty much cardstock paper. This is the stiffest, sturdiest paper and is used for business cards and cardstock for invitations.
Introduction: My name is Tyson Zemlak, I am a excited, light, sparkling, super, open, fair, magnificent person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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