Choosing paper and card stock for invitations
Matte, satin or textured? A short guide to the paper weights that work best for printed invitations.
The paper you choose changes how an invitation feels before anyone reads a word. These are the practical differences worth knowing.
Matte card stock
Matte stock is easy to write on, photographs well and hides fingerprints. It is a reliable choice for invitations, thank-you cards and signs.
Satin or coated stock
Satin stock gives colour a little more depth and feels smooth. It is less forgiving of creases and can smudge with some pens, so test before writing.
Textured stock
A light texture adds a handmade, tactile quality. Keep the design simple so the texture and the artwork do not compete.
For most home printers, 200–250 gsm is a comfortable balance between a substantial feel and reliable feeding. Check your printer’s manual before going heavier.