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PLEASE NOTE: Orders placed after midday on Friday, 20th December will not be processed until Thursday, 2nd January.
Thank you for your understanding and happy holidays!

 
 
 
 

What is the best weight of GSM for DIY Greeting Cards?

12 Apr 2024
 
What is the best weight of GSM for DIY Greeting Cards?

When buying blank greeting cards for your DIY card making projects, a  factor to consider is the weight of the card, typically measured in GSM. The GSM indicates the thickness and sturdiness of the card, influencing its suitability for various uses. Read our previous blog that goes into GSM a little deeper here.

Work out the best weight of GSM for DIY Greeting Cards.

Lightweight (100-200 GSM)
Lightweight card is ideal for projects that require flexibility and easy folding, such as intricate origami or delicate watercolor paintings. However, keep in mind that lighter paper may not hold up well to heavy embellishments or wet media.

Medium Weight (200-300 GSM)
Medium-weight paper strikes a balance between flexibility and durability, making it suitable for a wide range of techniques, including marker drawings, collage, and mixed media. This versatile option provides ample support for most DIY greeting card projects.

Heavyweight (300+ GSM)
Heavyweight paper offers maximum durability and stability, making it ideal for projects that involve heavy embellishments, layering, or 3D elements. While heavier paper may be less flexible, it provides a luxurious feel and professional finish to your DIY greeting cards.

Blank greeting cards are a DIY enthusiast's best friend, offering unparalleled flexibility, creativity, and cost-effectiveness. By choosing the right GSM for your projects, you can make sure your DIY greeting cards are not only visually stunning but also built to last.

What home printer can handle card stock?

One important factor before buying your chosen weight of GSM for your DIY card making, is to make sure your printer can handle the weight. Your average printer on the market can take up to 80 - 100 g/m² which is good for typical A4 paper, but not card.

Two inkjet printers that can handle DIY card making projects are:

Canon Pixma iX6850

For under £200 the Canon Pixma iX6820 is an affordable wireless printer that can handle up to A3+ and up to 300g/m. You can buy the Canon Pixma here

Canon Pro-200

If you want to go next level the Canon Pro-200 can accommodate a variety of paper with weights up to apx 380 g/m. See more about the Canon Pro-200 here.

Make sure the specifications meet your needs before purchasing, more info can be found on Canon's website.

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