Your wedding invitations are more than just paper—they’re the first glimpse into your love story, setting the vibe for your big day. Choosing the right paper can feel overwhelming, but it’s all about finding a material that feels like you. Whether you’re dreaming of rustic handmade paper, sleek cardstock, or luxurious double-thick paper, this guide will help you pick the perfect fit for your wedding stationery. Let’s dive in!

Why Wedding Invitation Paper Matters

The texture, weight, and finish of your invitation paper create a tactile experience that speaks volumes. From boho chic to black-tie elegance, the right paper elevates your design and makes your invites unforgettable. Here’s the scoop on handmade paper versus cardstock to help you choose.

Handmade Paper: Luxurious, Unique Texture

Imagine an invitation with soft, deckled edges and a texture you can’t help but touch. Handmade paper is crafted with love, often featuring natural fibers or delicate floral inclusions. It’s perfect for couples who want an organic, artisanal feel.

• Best for: Garden, outdoor, Black and White, Boho, vintage, or Italian weddings.
• Texture: Organic, uneven, tactile, with a cozy, handmade charm and gloriously unique—think velvety softness with a rustic edge.
• Why we love it: Eco-friendly and utterly unique, it’s a dream for letterpress.
• Things to know: It’s a premium choice with a higher price tag, and its non-uniform size requires significant skill and technique—we only use experienced letterpress printers for it. Not easy for digital printing.
• Pro tip: Choose cotton-based handmade paper for durability and a luxe vibe.

Cardstock: Versatile with a Luxe Upgrade

Cardstock is the classic crowd-pleaser—reliable, polished, and endlessly adaptable. Available in various weights (typically 300-350gsm), it’s a smooth canvas for vibrant designs. Want to dial up the luxury? Upgrade to double-thick cardstock (600gsm or more) for a substantial, high-end feel that rivals the finest stationery.

• Best for: Watercolor, modern, classic, or minimalist weddings.
• Texture: Sleek and consistent, perfect for digital printing, letterpress or foil stamping.
• Why we love it: Could be doubled-sided printed, and compatible with nearly any printing style, from digital to foil stamping. The double-thick upgrade adds a premium touch.
• Things to know: Standard cardstock may feel less opulent, but double-thick brings serious sophistication.

How to Choose Between Handmade Paper and Cardstock

Feeling torn between these two? Here’s how to pick the perfect paper for your wedding invitations:

• Match your vibe: Handmade paper’s unique texture sings for rustic or boho themes, while cardstock (or its double-thick upgrade) suits modern or formal aesthetics.
• Mind your budget: Standard cardstock is wallet-friendly, handmade paper is a splurge, and double-thick cardstock splits the difference for luxe on a budget.
• Think printing: Handmade paper loves the depth of letterpress, while cardstock shines with digital, letterpress or foil printing.
• Touch it first: Order samples to feel the difference—handmade’s organic texture versus cardstock’s smooth or double-thick weight.

A Little Love Note from Us

Your wedding invitations are a gift to your guests, carrying the essence of your celebration. Whether you’re swept away by the luxurious, unique texture of handmade paper or charmed by the versatility of cardstock (with a double-thick upgrade for that luxe edge), follow your heart. Play with samples, dream big, and let your stationery weave your love story.

Ready to create invitations as unforgettable as your love? We’re here to craft custom wedding stationery that’s all you. Drop us a line, and let’s make magic together!

Want more stationery inspiration? Check out our posts on envelope liners, venue illustrations, and map cards to complete your wedding suite!