A Beginner’s Guide to Cardstock Printing in Australia
When it comes to printing something that feels as good as it looks, cardstock makes all the difference.
Whether you’re creating business cards, wedding invites, menus or postcards, choosing the right thickness, finish and weight can completely change the way your final product turns out.
In this beginner’s guide by Printyo, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about cardstock printing in Australia—without the jargon. Let’s get into it!
New to Cardstock? Start Here.
If you have ever held a business card or a wedding invite and thought, “Wow, this feels nice,” you have experienced the magic of cardstock. But how do you pick the right type for your own project?
That is exactly what we will explore in this beginner-friendly guide, written just for you.
According to a study by Two Sides Australia, over 70% of Australians say they trust printed materials more than digital content, and feel that printed items like brochures, business cards, and postcards leave a deeper, more memorable impression
What Makes Cardstock Different from Regular Paper?
Cardstock is heavier and more durable than regular printer paper. In Australia, it is measured using GSM, or grams per square metre. The higher the GSM, the thicker and sturdier the card.
If you are printing anything that needs to hold its shape, resist bending, or make a lasting impression, cardstock is what you are looking for.
GSM Explained – Why It Matters in Australian Printing
GSM tells you how heavy and thick the paper is. Here are some examples:
- Standard printer paper = 80gsm
- A light flyer = 150gsm
- A sturdy invitation = 300gsm or more
Here are the most common cardstock weights used in Australia:
| GSM | Typical Uses |
|---|---|
| 150gsm | Light covers, brochures, posters |
| 170gsm | Flyers, high-quality brochures |
| 200gsm | Premium posters, menus, covers |
| 300gsm | Postcards, business cards, invites |
| 350gsm | Premium business cards, invites |
| 450gsm | Ultra-premium cards, luxury invites |
How Thick Is It Really? Cardstock Thickness Simplified
GSM gives you the weight, but what about thickness? Here is a rough breakdown in millimetres:
- 150–170gsm: Around 0.2 mm
- 200–300gsm: Around 0.3–0.35 mm
- 350–450gsm: Around 0.4–0.5 mm
- As a general rule, the thicker the card, the more premium it feels.
What Kind of Finish Should You Choose?
Finishes change both the look and function of your cardstock. Here are your main options:
- Gloss: Shiny and vibrant. Perfect for colourful designs and photographs.
- Matte: Smooth and elegant. Great for text-heavy designs.
- Uncoated: Natural feel. Easy to write on.
- Textured: Feels unique. Options include linen, felt, and hammered.
- Coloured: Pre-dyed paper for bold designs.
- Recycled: Eco-conscious, slightly rustic look.
Choosing the Right GSM for Your Project: Practical Examples
Here is how to match GSM to your specific needs:
| GSM | Finish Options | Best Uses | Why Use It? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 150gsm | Gloss, Matte, Silk | Flyers, brochures, posters | Slightly heavier than regular paper. Ideal for bulk printing and handouts. |
| 170gsm | Gloss, Matte | High-end brochures, folded pamphlets | Better durability and feel. Holds folds without cracking. |
| 200gsm | Gloss, Matte, Uncoated | Menus, booklet covers, premium posters | Balanced strength and flexibility. |
| 300gsm | Gloss, Matte, Uncoated | Invitations, postcards, greeting cards, menus | Ideal for items that need to feel solid. |
| 350gsm | Gloss, Matte, Textured | Business cards, tags, premium invitations | A popular choice for items meant to impress. |
| 450gsm | Matte, Textured | Luxury invites, certificates, VIP business cards | Extremely thick and firm. Premium, tactile experience. |
Real-Life Uses: What GSM Works Best for What?
Let us break it down based on your project:
- Flyers or brochures for an event? Use 150–170gsm.
- A restaurant menu or product booklet? Go with 200gsm.
- Invitations or postcards? 300gsm gives a polished, sturdy finish.
- Premium business cards? 350gsm is the Australian go-to.
- Want something ultra-luxurious? Use 450gsm.
How Do You Know Which Cardstock to Pick? Start Here
- Need to fold it? Stay under 300gsm or pre-score heavier stocks.
- Want people to write on it? Choose uncoated.
- Printing photography or bold colours? Gloss will make it pop.
- Looking for a subtle, elegant tone? Matte is your best friend.
- Going green? Ask for recycled cardstock options.
Why Your Finish Choice Changes Everything
Finish does more than just add shine. It influences readability, feel, and even durability.
- Gloss = Vibrant colours, less writable
- Matte = Readable, soft to the touch
- Uncoated = Writable, natural feel
- Textured = Adds character, best for boutique or creative work
Sustainable & Coloured Card Options for Creative Projects
Australia is moving toward more sustainable printing. Recycled cardstock options are widely available. They are often slightly textured and come in earthy tones.
Coloured cardstock is great for invitations, packaging, or creative business collateral. It adds depth without the need for full-colour printing.
Handy Summary Table for Fast Decision-Making
| GSM Range | Common Uses |
|---|---|
| 150–170gsm | Flyers, brochures, posters, pamphlets |
| 200gsm | Menus, booklet covers, posters |
| 300gsm | Postcards, invitations, greeting cards |
| 350gsm | Business cards, gift tags, premium invites |
| 450gsm | Luxury cards, VIP business cards, certificates |
Wrapping It All Up: Your Personal Cardstock Guide
Choosing the right cardstock is not about guessing—it is about asking the right questions:
- How will it be used?
- Should it fold or stay flat?
- Does it need to feel fancy or functional?
Use GSM as your guide, finish for style and function, and do not hesitate to ask your printer for samples.