Cardstock Paper: What It Is and Why It Is Used in Diplomas and Certificates

Why Cardstock Feels Special

You ever notice how official papers like diplomas and certificates just feel better when they’re printed on something sturdy?

I remember getting my first certificate on regular printer paper. It honestly felt like a grocery receipt. But once I switched to cardstock, handing someone a certificate actually meant something. There’s this soft thunk when you set it on a desk. It’s like, “Hey, this is official.”

---

The Good Stuff About Cardstock

• Sturdy & Substantial – Gives weight and presence to important documents.

• Premium Look – Instantly feels more professional and valuable.

• Long-Lasting – Holds up well over time, especially if acid-free.

When someone holds it, they feel the importance and that alone makes it worth the upgrade.

---

The Not-So-Perfect Side

Of course, nothing’s perfect:

• Costs More – It’s pricier than regular printer paper.

• Postage Adds Up – Heavier paper means heavier envelopes.

• Printer Drama – Not all printers play nice with thick paper; jams happen.

Some days, I swear printers have a personal vendetta against anything thicker than a napkin.

---

My Tips for Using Cardstock

• Go for mid-weight cardstock thick enough to feel substantial, but not so thick that your printer goes on strike.

• Always choose acid-free so it won’t yellow over time.

• If printing in bulk, consider a professional print shop to save headaches.

---

Quick Comparison: Cardstock vs. Regular Paper for Certificates

---

Final Thought

For anything people will frame, hang, or keep for years, cardstock is the way to go. Once you feel the difference, you might even find yourself inventing reasons to print certificates just for the satisfaction of handing