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DIY Labor Day Decorations & Crafts

A large part of any holiday is the decor that goes along with it. Decorations add to the festivity and make the holiday more fun and joyful. While going to the store and purchasing readymade decor is always an option, doing it yourself allows for a much greater sense of accomplishment. Have the family join in your Labor Day decorations and crafts, and use the time as a bonding experience for everyone.

The Labor Day Colors

Perhaps not as obvious, the colors of Labor Day are the same as the other national holidays of Memorial Day and July 4th. Considered a patriotic holiday because it celebrates the achievements of American workers, the colors of this national holiday are red, white, and blue.

So if you’re wondering how to decorate for Labor Day, you really can’t go wrong if you stick to the holiday’s theme colors of red, white, and blue. When it comes to selecting materials for your Labor Day decor, use FineCardstock.com’s ‘Search by Color’ option to find the different types of paper and cardstock you may need. The sky is truly the limit when it comes to making patriotic decorations.

Labor Day Decoration Ideas

If you want to celebrate Labor Day weekend in style, the key is doing the absolute most with your decor. Decor is able to enhance the holiday vibe in a way that nothing else can. The more decorated the space is, the more encompassing the holiday feeling will be. While it’s very easy to understand the importance of good decor, it can be daunting to bring that decor to life.

DIY projects always sound amazing in theory, but can quickly become overwhelming headaches. DIY doesn’t have to mean complicated and impossible. You don’t need to be Martha Stewart in order to decorate for Labor Day.

One easy Labor Day decor idea is American Flag banners. Start with an 11 x 17 White Cardstock Paper as the backdrop for your banner. For this particular project, choose cardstock with a smooth finish. Select between 65-pound, 100-pound, and 130-pound cardstock weight for your paper. Choose a lighter weight for easier hanging options, or choose a heavier weight if you’re thinking of hanging your decor outside and want a more sturdy option.

The white cardstock paper will serve as the backdrop for your American flag. Next, choose Blast-Off Blue Paper for the backdrop of your stars. Cut your 8 ½ x 11 inch size paper in half lengthwise. Glue one of those halves onto the top left portion of your horizontally positioned white cardstock paper.

With the backdrop for your stars in place, you can use a paintbrush with white paint to draw 50 stars. Alternatively, you can use a whiteout pen to achieve the same effect. If drawing and cutting out 50 stars seems like a project you want to tackle, you can do so as well using Premium Gloss White Paper. Whichever option you would like to choose, make sure to keep your stars small enough so that you can fit 50 of them onto your blue rectangle.

Once you have the stars portion of your flag complete, you are ready to work on the stripes. Select Re-Entry Red or Rocket Red color paper in the 11 x 17 inch size for your red stripes and choose Premium Gloss White Paper in the same size for your white stripes. Use a pair of scissors to cut seven red stripes and six white stripes, making sure to tailor each stripe’s size as needed depending on its placement on your white cardstock paper backdrop. Begin pasting by starting with a red stripe and alternate colors until you use up all 13 stripes.

Once completed, use scotch tape to attach a wooden skewer to the flag’s side. Use this exact same process to create as many American flags as needed for your Labor Day decor. You can even use the same method with smaller sized paper to create mini American flags that can be strung together to form a holiday-themed garland. Just make sure to skip the skewers if you decide to go for the garland option, as no one wants poked eyes during a holiday weekend. If you don’t want to forgo the flagpole, popsicle sticks are a great safer option.

Labor Day Craft Ideas

Besides the plethora of Labor Day decoration ideas that exist, there are also many DIY arts and crafts options that can help add festivity to the day. Other than serving up delicious barbeques and eating your weight in hot dogs, you may be wondering what to do on Labor Day. Crafts are the perfect activity for adults and kids alike.

Make patriotic picture frames together with family and friends and use the frames to display the wonderful memories of your Labor Day holiday weekend. To start, simply select your 8 ½ x 11 inch color cardstock paper. A few on-theme options would be Stardust White, Re-Entry Red, Rocket Red, and Blast-Off Blue. Draw a five-pointed star on your paper, making sure to draw it as large as the paper size allows. Since the center of the star is where the photo will be placed, be careful to ensure that the middle is robust enough in size to fit a picture.

Once you have finished drawing your star, use a pair of scissors to cut it out. Use your star cutout to trace your star onto an identical piece of cardstock paper. Cut out that star as well, so that you are left with two matching stars. Use the bottom of any can in your pantry to draw a circle in the center of your first star. Gently fold the star in half to carefully cut out the circle you have just drawn.

Take the star with the circle cutout and begin decorating it. The decor options are endless. Little kids can use dot paints in patriotic themed colors to decorate their stars. Markers and crayons can also be used to add more color to your picture frames. Utilize ribbons and stickers to add texture and design. For even more eye-catching creations, apply red and blue glitter to make your stars dazzle across the living room or backyard.

Use scotch tape or glue to attach the three bottom-most points of the first star onto the second star. Make sure not to glue the top portion of the star. You need to leave it unattached so that you have room to slip in the photo of your choice. Then, simply tape a piece of yarn onto the pack of your newly made photo frame in order to hang it on display wherever you would like.

Not only have you created a unique Labor day craft, you have also added to your Labor Day decor. So instead of just relying on hot dogs and burgers to create the Labor Day spirit, allow FineCardstock.com to supply you with the materials necessary to celebrate your Labor Day weekend in true American style and spirit. Most importantly, remember to have fun and tailor each project according to your own artistic vision.

How To Emboss Cardstock

Embossing cardstock sounds fancy and complicated. It may seem like something you’d have to hire a professional to do for you, perhaps at a local print shop or stationery store. However, it’s possible to achieve that elevated look right at home. From the comfort of your dining room table or crafts room, you can create sophisticated cards, invitations, and more.

What Is Embossing?

The art of embossing is creating a raised image on any type of material. In this case, embossing on cardstock paper means imprinting a raised image, text, or design onto your paper. You may wonder how this is different from engraving. Engraving means to carve out grooves, while embossing is achieved by pressing an object against the cardstock paper in order to generate a raised image.

How To Emboss Cardstock By Hand

You may think that fancy machinery would be required in order to emboss cardstock. The good news is that you can emboss cardstock by hand, without a machine. There are several different techniques for doing so.

It is important to note that these methods of embossing cardstock by hand are extremely useful for smaller projects. If you are looking to emboss hundreds of invitations, a machine would be better suited for the job.

Dry Emboss

One common technique for embossing cardstock by hand is using the dry emboss method. Dry embossing, also known as hand embossing, is done by using a stylus tool to trace a stencil. The result will be a raised design on the cardstock paper you are embossing.

To begin, you will need the stencil design you wish to emboss, cardstock paper to emboss the image onto, and a stylus tool to trace the stencil with. If you don’t have a stylus tool, any object with a fine pointed metal edge will also do the trick. Lastly, you will need either a lightbox or a well-lit window.

Start by using masking tape or painter’s tape to tape your stencil onto your lightbox or window. The side of the stencil that is facing outwards, towards the window or lightbox, should be the reverse of what you want to emboss. This is particularly important for embossing text, unless you want the lettering to come out backwards.

Once your stencil is secured, attach a piece of white cardstock paper over the stencil using the same painter’s tape or masking tape. Make sure to use enough tape so that your paper is firmly attached and won’t move once you begin tracing the stencil. Now you are ready to take your stylus tool and begin tracing. Trace slowly and precisely in order to get a perfect emboss. If you rush too quickly, you risk potentially tearing the paper and having a messy design. When you are finished, carefully remove the tape, lift the paper, and enjoy your perfectly embossed print.

Heat Emboss

Another common technique used when embossing by hand is the heat emboss method. Heat embossing means adding a raised design to your cardstock paper by using stamps, ink, embossing powder, and a heating element. To start, you will need a stamp, an ink pad with sticky slow-drying ink, a heat gun, embossing powder, cardstock paper, and a used dryer sheet.

Begin by rubbing the used dryer sheet across your cardstock paper. This will eliminate any static and stop the embossing powder from sticking to unwanted places. Then, take the stamp with your desired image or text and press it onto the embossing-friendly inkpad. Firmly stamp your design onto the cardstock paper and sprinkle a generous amount of embossing powder over it. Make sure that the entirety of the inked area is covered.

Turn over the cardstock paper and gently tap off the excess powder onto a scrap piece of paper. Do this a few times until all of the unused powder is gone and only the stamped design is covered with the embossing powder. Now you can use your heating gun to warm up the embossing powder until it is fully melted. Be careful not to overheat your design as you can discolor the paper and cause the powder to evaporate. Once the powder is fully melted, you will be left with a beautifully embossed design.

How To Emboss Cardstock With Cricut

If you have a bigger project that requires a lot of embossing, a cricut maker can be particularly useful. It is important to note the difference between embossing and debossing. While embossing means creating a raised three-dimensional image, debossing means creating an engraved recessed image. While the steps may be a touch confusing, once you get the hang of it, you can produce embossed materials at a much faster rate than with embossing by hand.

  1. Open a new project in Cricut Design Space.
  2. Select the upload image icon to import your embossing design stencil. Once you have uploaded your design, it will appear in your design space.
  3. By default, the image will automatically be set to “Cut”. Make sure to change this setting to “Deboss”. You will know you have changed the default setting when you see the lines change from standard lines to extra thick ones.
  4. Place your embossing design onto a piece of lightweight to medium weight cardstock paper. Once complete, simply click “Make It”.
  5. When your cricut maker is ready to begin, it will instruct you to insert the debossing tool into the machine. Since you want to emboss and not deboss, simply ignore the instruction and put the emboss-it pen into the machine instead.
  6. The cricut maker will now draw your design instead of debossing it. Repeat this step for a second layer of ink on your design.
  7. Immediately remove your cardstock paper and cover your entire design with embossing powder. Shake off the excess powder and use a heat gun to melt the powder and complete your embossing design.

Debossing With Cricut

If you would like to create a recessed image, you can use the debossing method with your cricut machine. Since a cricut maker can only press down from above, it is actually easier to create a debossed image than it is to create an embossed one. Simply follow steps 1 – 4 from the cricut embossing method. Then, insert the debossing tool into the machine and watch your debossed image come to life.

If you are using a lighter weight paper, it is actually possible to use this debossing method in reverse – simply flip over your design stencil to create an embossed image. This will not work with thicker paper because the debossing tool will not score deeply enough to raise the image on the opposite side of the paper.

Whichever method you choose to use, remember that it may take a few trial runs to get your embossed or debossed image to be perfectly precise. As with any new experience, don’t despair. Once you have the process down pat, you will be able to replicate and use the technique whenever you want. Prepare to elevate your level of sophistication with cards and invitations that will rival any professional printing house.

Cardstock For Wedding Programs


When you’re planning a wedding, you want to make sure that everything goes off without a hitch. While you may not be able to guarantee that your bridesmaids will show up on time or that you’ll get a chance to speak to everyone before you leave for your honeymoon, you can control what goes in your wedding programs.

And though some couples treat wedding programs as an afterthought, they really are an important part of the ceremony and the overall experience that people have at your wedding. But since you might have little to no experience making wedding programs, you probably have a few questions. For instance, do you really need wedding programs? What is the right cardstock weight for wedding programs? Can you make wedding program fans with cardstock? Finally, where can you get high-quality cardstock to make sure that your wedding programs look amazing?

In today’s guide, we will answer all of these questions and more, but first, let’s take a look at what wedding programs are and the purpose they serve:

What Is A Wedding Program?

It can be useful to think of your wedding program as a kind of brochure for the event. Not only does it outline the activities and schedule of the day, but it also provides useful information that guests might want or need. For example, if there are special parts of the ceremony that will occur at different times and locations, you can use your wedding program to provide guests with directions, timetables, and any other useful info. This could save you and your family a lot of time, as you won’t have dozens of people asking you the same questions over and over again!

Even if you want a simple or low-key wedding, a wedding program can act like a handy little companion for your guests. Someone attending your wedding might feel confused about where they should be or what’s supposed to happen next. A well-made program gives them instant access to the itinerary and will (hopefully) answer any questions they have.

Wedding programs don’t need to be purely functional though. They also serve an aesthetic purpose and can give you the chance to express the importance of the day through images, designs, and words. You might choose to provide brief descriptions of certain customs or traditions, explanations of cultural or religious practices, or even introductions of the people serving key roles in the ceremony.

Wedding programs also give you the chance to personalize your big day even more. You and your significant other can choose the layout, color, font, content, and overall design of your programs. This way, your wedding program can serve as a reflection of you, your fiancé, and the journey that you’re about to begin together.

Are Wedding Programs Necessary?

You might be wondering if wedding programs are really necessary. So, do you need wedding programs to enjoy your special day? Honestly, no. “Need” is a strong word, and since it’s your big day, you can celebrate in whatever way makes sense to you.

But if you’d like to adhere to the unofficial “protocols” and traditions of modern weddings, programs are generally expected. Again, they do serve a functional and aesthetic purpose, too. So, even if you’re on the fence about programs, it may be best to err on the side of caution and create cardstock wedding programs for your guests. And even if your guests don’t really want or need them on your wedding day, programs can be a great keepsake that you, your family, and your friends can save and cherish for years to come!

How To Make A Wedding Program

The exact process you’ll follow will vary a little based on your personal preferences and even time constraints, but if you’re unsure how to write a wedding program, simply follow the steps below:

 
  1. Choose high-quality cardstock in sizes that are comfortable to hold or even slip into a purse or pocket. Make sure that the color of the cardstock adheres to the theme or color scheme of your wedding, and make sure to decide if you want flat or folded cardstock.
  2. Plan the layout of your program. If you’re not sure what to include in a wedding program, you should, at a minimum, include the name of you and your fiancé, the date of the ceremony, the location, and a basic itinerary.
  3. Design the layout on your computer. This makes it easier to decide what goes on the front, inside, or back of the program. Alternatively, you may choose to take a more free-form approach and do each program by hand (though this option is far more time-consuming).
  4. Personalize and decorate your wedding programs with lace, ribbon, photos, or any other special touches that appeal to you.
  5. Finally, replicate your design so that you have more than enough programs for every guest in attendance.

There are a few unique situations that you may need to prepare for when making wedding programs. For instance, if you’re wondering how to list divorced parents, you should generally ask your parents how they would like to be listed in the program. In most cases, there is no need to reference the marriage status of the parents of the bride or the groom. And if you’re wondering how to list a deceased parent, it can be helpful to add “The Late” before their name. Finally, you should try to list all of the members of your wedding party which, in addition to parents, typically includes the maid of honor, best man, flower girl, ring bearer, groomsmen, bridesmaids, wedding officiant, and ushers.

How To Make Wedding Program Fans

One great thing about wedding programs that we’ve failed to discuss thus far is their versatility. Whether you’re planning an indoor or outdoor wedding, there’s a good chance that people will start to feel hot. This is often a result of the clothing that is worn by both wedding party members and guests. Many people will reach for the nearest “fan” to keep themselves cool, and this often includes the wedding programs!

Thin cardstock or, even worse, printer paper will be too flimsy to function as a makeshift fan. Therefore, if you anticipate warmer temperatures, it is best to opt for thick, heavy cardstock for wedding program fans. You don’t need to do anything special or add any attachments as long as the cardstock is thick enough to function as a fan on its own. And if you take care of this little detail, your guests will almost certainly thank you!

The Best Cardstock For Wedding Programs

The best cardstock for your wedding program will ultimately come down to your personal tastes and the aesthetic of your wedding. For formal ceremonies, pastel colors like beige, light pink, or lavender work very well. In addition to the color, you’ll also want to make sure that you choose the right weight. Generally, the best cardstock weight for wedding programs is somewhere around 85 lbs, though anything above 65 lbs will work in a pinch. Just remember, thicker cardstock is typically better for fans, and as an added bonus, it tends to last longer. This is especially important if you want to frame your wedding program or simply keep it as a reminder of the beautiful day!

Ready to start your next project? Check out our high-quality cardstock today, and let us know how you put our cardstock to good use!

DIY Bookmarks From Cardstock

Contrary to popular belief, bookmarks offer much more than a way to mark your place in a book. With a bookmark, you can really express your personality, creativity, and sense of self. This is why it’s so much better to create DIY bookmarks than to just go to your local bookstore and pay for something off the shelf. Not only are mass-produced bookmarks bland (and rarely in keeping with your unique personality), but they can also cost way more than they should!

Fortunately, creating fun and cute DIY bookmarks is much easier than you may think. But if you’ve never tried to break into the world of DIY bookmarks, you probably have a few questions. For instance, what are some good ideas for homemade bookmarks? What can you add to make cool DIY bookmarks for yourself or someone else? Finally, where can you get high-quality cardstock to start your next DIY bookmark project?

In today’s guide, you’ll learn how to make homemade bookmarks from cardstock and much more. So, let’s get started!

Why Homemade Cardstock Bookmarks Are So Popular

Before the Industrial Revolution came along, nearly every bookmark was homemade. From feathers to pieces of fabric, people often used whatever they had on hand to mark their place in a book. Today, you have a lot more options at your disposal, most of which are made on an assembly line.

However, the truth is that homemade, DIY cardstock bookmarks are becoming increasingly popular once again. Why? There are a myriad of reasons, but one of the key components is the rising popularity of arts and crafts. As premade products become more expensive and less unique, consumers turn to their own skills, creativity, and know-how to make truly interesting and one-of-a-kind items — and bookmarks are no exception.

Naturally, homemade cardstock bookmarks have a personal touch that mass-produced bookmarks could simply never possess. When you take the time to put love, attention, and your own creativity into a DIY project, the end result is a true reflection of your identity and individuality. This makes it so much more enjoyable to actually use your bookmark because every time you see it, you’re reminded of the fruits of your labor!

Setting aside the sense of pride you may feel, DIY bookmarks simply give you more creative liberties to explore interesting designs and materials. You can choose from a wide range of colors, patterns, textures, and even themes when you make your own bookmarks. This level of customization means that the possibilities are virtually limitless. In fact, the only limit is your own imagination!

Lastly, homemade cardstock bookmarks are something that can be cherished by your loved ones. If you choose to make a DIY bookmark and gift it to a friend or family member (especially an avid reader), they are far more likely to cherish it and appreciate the time and effort that went into making the gift. Gifted DIY bookmarks can carry a great deal of sentimental value as well, so if you’re trying to think of a way to really put some thoughtfulness into a gift, you can’t go wrong with a personalized, homemade bookmark.

DIY Bookmark Ideas

As previously mentioned, there are endless possibilities when it comes to creating your own bookmarks. However, you might feel a little overwhelmed with so many different options and creative directions to choose from! So, to help you out, we’ve compiled some of the best DIY bookmark ideas for kids, teens, and adults:

DIY Bookmarks For Kids

  • Animal Cutouts – It’s easy to assume that all bookmarks should conform to the same size and shape, but that’s definitely not the case. You can easily cut out fun animal shapes using cardstock and voila! You’ve got cute DIY bookmarks for kids!
  • Fun Emojis – Even if your child doesn’t use mobile devices yet, they’re probably aware of emojis. Creating cutout emojis like laughing faces or cool sunglasses can be a fun way to surprise your kid and help make reading even more fun!
  • Nature Images – You can show off your artistic talent by drawing or even painting nature-inspired images on cardstock. Just make sure to let the ink or paint dry before your child starts using the bookmark!
  • Cartoon Characters – From Adventure Time to SpongeBob, there is no shortage of cartoons and cartoon characters to inspire your next DIY bookmark. But if you’re unsure which characters your child likes, be sure to ask before you get started!

DIY Bookmarks For Teens

  • Inspirational Quotes – It can be tough to get your teenager to stay focused on their studies and reading activities. Adding an inspirational quote to their cardstock bookmark could offer just the kind of encouragement they need!
  • Pop Culture References – While you may not be “in” on all the latest pop culture references, you can make a fun or even funny bookmark for your teenager using memes, images of their favorite celebrities, or even movie quotes.
  • Photo Collages – If you prefer a more sentimental option, you can’t go wrong with some heartwarming family photos on your teen’s bookmark!
  • Minimalist Designs – Your teen may not want something over-the-top that’s bound to draw a lot of attention. So, consider creating a unique yet minimalistic design, like geometric shapes or a collage of their favorite colors.

DIY Bookmarks For Adults

  • Vintage Designs – Adults are more likely to appreciate old-school designs or bookmarks stylized to look like they came from decades or centuries past.
  • Calligraphy – Writing someone’s name or even an inspirational quote in calligraphy is a great way to personalize a cardstock bookmark.
  • Pressed Flowers – If you know someone who loves all things floral, consider collecting flowers and pressing them between layers of cardstock. Once they’ve dried, you can laminate the cardstock with the flower for greater durability.
  • Shared Memories – Finally, most adults will appreciate great memories with friends or family members. You can easily add classic photos to your cardstock as a reminder of the fun times you’ve spent together!

The Best Cardstock For Bookmarks

There’s no one perfect type of cardstock for bookmarks. However, you have to keep in mind that you or the recipient of your bookmark will (hopefully) get a lot of mileage out of it, which means that you need to make your cardstock bookmark last. Thin cardstock is more likely to bend and even deteriorate over time. Ideally, you should choose a thicker, heavier cardstock (80 lbs to 100 lbs) as your base. Then, you can further protect your creation using lamination or layering

Finally, you’ll want to make sure that you get cardstock that either already matches your desired color or can have color added to it. If you plan to do any painting or calligraphy, you’ll also want to make sure that the cardstock is sufficiently thick, otherwise, you may have your paint or ink bleeding through. In the end, as long as you choose a thick cardstock from a high-quality provider, you can most definitely make a bookmark that will stand the test of time.

And remember, if you choose a provider like Fine Cardstock, you can rest easy knowing that you’re getting the absolute best cardstock on the market!

Ready to start your next project? Check out our high-quality cardstock today, and let us know how you put our cardstock to good use!

Cardstock Butterflies Guide

Decorating with paper butterflies can easily turn a drab room into a fun, whimsical environment. Plus, they make great gifts and accessories, particularly for children. However, trying to make butterflies with standard printer paper is not always the best idea. If the paper is too thin, your butterflies could get damaged before you’ve even had a chance to show them off. Fortunately, cardstock butterflies are generally much sturdier, and give you more room to express your creativity.

But why does cardstock work better when making DIY butterflies? What are the steps you need to follow to make beautiful butterfly wings? Finally, where can you find high-quality cardstock to jumpstart your butterfly craft project?

In today’s guide, we will answer all of these questions and more. So, let’s get started!

Why Cardstock Is Popular For DIY Butterflies

You may wonder why cardstock is the best choice for DIY butterflies. The truth is that thousands of creatives prefer cardstock because it strikes a happy medium between thin, flimsy printer paper, and thick, cumbersome paperboard. This balance between durability and flexibility helps make cardstock a top choice for many arts and crafts projects.

But why exactly do these features of cardstock work so well with butterflies? It’s simple. Artists often look at the true nature of their subjects before recreating them. Butterflies are naturally delicate, but they also have large, strong wings made of chitin. Chitin is a sturdy material, capable of quickly propelling butterflies into the air. Therefore, when recreating butterflies, it’s important to pick a material that can capture both the fragile and powerful characteristics of butterfly wings.

This is where cardstock comes in. You can slice through cardstock paper in seconds with a simple pair of scissors or a Cricut machine. At the same time, cardstock is far more durable than most kinds of writing or printing paper. This ensures that your beautiful creations won’t get destroyed while you work. The extra thickness also makes it easier to add a variety of colors to the wings with ink, paint, glitter, or even bits of color paper.

The Best Cardstock For Butterflies

Since you want to strike a balance when creating butterflies, particularly when it comes to the wings, you’ll need to figure out which cardstock is best for the job. Generally, cardstock is divided by a few different qualities, namely size, color, and weight. The size is typically not as important when making butterflies; you’ll just need to ensure that you acquire pieces large enough to make the wings. Depending on how you plan to use your DIY butterflies, you may want tiny wings or enormous wings. If it’s a large-scale project, you might have to use more than one piece of cardstock to create each wing.

However, for the vast majority of DIY butterfly projects, the color and weight of the cardstock are the most important features to consider. When it comes to color, you have a fair amount of creative liberty with the palette you choose. For example, you may want the wings to have a solid color, in which case you can pick cardstock with the color of your choice. Alternatively, you may just want the cardstock to serve as a base color so that you can decorate it with even more patterns and hues. In any case, some of the most popular colors for cardstock butterflies are red, yellow, orange, pink, blue, green, and purple.

The most important factor when choosing the best cardstock for your project is the weight. Cardstock weight is used to determine the thickness of the paper, and this can be measured in pounds per 500 sheets or GSM (grams per square meter). Let’s take a look at some of the most common weight categories to see which one will fit your needs:

  • Light Cardstock – Light cardstock is generally any cardstock that measures between 59 and 65 lbs (160 and 175 GSM). This is the same kind of cardstock that you might find in certain notebooks, particularly those designed for sketching. Light cardstock works well if you don’t plan to use any coloring, as ink or paint will likely bleed right through the paper.
  • Medium Cardstock – Medium cardstock is easy to cut while offering a slightly sturdier base than light alternatives. It typically measures between 65 and 80 lbs (175 and 215 GSM). This is closer to standard printer paper, which means that it may still be a little thin for certain arts and crafts projects.
  • Heavy Cardstock – As the name implies, heavy cardstock is heavier than medium cardstock, with measurements that typically range between 80 and 100 lbs (215 and 270 GSM). This cardstock is often good for butterflies and similar art projects, as it is still relatively easy to shape with a Cricut and is thick enough to handle light ink.
  • Heavier Cardstock – Finally, heavy cardstock may be any cardstock higher than 100 lbs in thickness, though some manufacturers measure the heavier cardstock between 110 and 140 lbs (298 and 378 GSM). This range of cardstock works very well for butterflies, though you should note that it will be a little more difficult to cut. However, if you plan to use paint or heavy ink, you should plan to use cardstock that is at least 130 lbs.

As you can see, thicker (heavier) cardstocks are generally the best options for DIY butterflies. They are still thin enough to cut and display the fragility of butterfly wings, but strong enough to handle various coloration methods.

How To Make Simple Cardstock Butterflies

While you can trace and cut out cardstock butterflies by hand, the quickest method requires a Cricut machine. This way, you can use a template image or SVG file to cut the exact shape you want. But in the event that you don’t have access to a Cricut machine, here are the steps you can follow to make cardstock butterflies by hand:

  1. Print an image (to size) of a butterfly on regular printer paper
  2. Cut the outline of the image to use as a stencil
  3. Trace the outline onto the cardstock
  4. Carefully cut along the traced lines
  5. Style your cardstock butterfly with paint, ink, glitter, or markers

How To Make 3D Butterflies Out Of Cardstock

Making 3D butterflies requires a bit more practice, as you’ll need to learn the proper steps to create a pleated or origami butterfly. Additionally, you’ll need to make sure that your cardstock is thin enough to fold multiple times. Remember that there are dozens of different ways to make 3D butterflies, but here are the steps you can follow to make one without any cutting required:

  1. Fold a square piece of cardstock in half along all 4 sides so that you’re left with 4 square sections when you unfold it again
  2. Now fold the cardstock in half diagonally using the same method
  3. Press together the middle creases and fold the cardstock down into a triangle
  4. Turn the triangle upside down and fold the left and right corners so that they meet the bottom point
  5. Flip the triangle right side up again and fold the bottom half up, leaving a small portion of the top point visible
  6. The top point should be made up of two different folds; curl the top fold back down over the base of the triangle
  7. Pull down the back fold so that it can create the bottom wings
  8. If you find that the paper is unfolding, feel free to use tape or glue to help it maintain the shape of a butterfly
  9. Style your cardstock butterfly with paint, ink, glitter, or markers

Ready to start your next project? Check out our high-quality cardstock today, and let us know how you put our cardstock to good use!

DIY Juneteenth Decorations & Crafts

Juneteenth celebrates the abolition of slavery in the United States. On June 19th, 1862, the U.S. Congress enacted the Emancipation Proclamation, though it would only be implemented throughout the country at the end of the Civil War in 1865. That same year, former slaves and abolitionists commemorated the event, a celebration that would later become known as Juneteenth. In June of 2021, Juneteenth officially became a federal holiday and today, people celebrate June 19th as a marker of progress for African Americans and others who have struggled for equality in the United States.

Naturally, Juneteenth is a time to celebrate and reflect on the importance of freedom. Juneteenth celebrations can take many forms, but informal parties with DIY decorations are commonplace all across the nation. So, what kinds of decorations and crafts are best to celebrate such an important day?

In today’s guide, we will answer this question and help you find the best materials to make your very own Juneteenth decorations and craft projects!

The Juneteenth Colors

While there are no official colors to celebrate Juneteenth, a few colors are commonly used during the holiday. Traditionally, red, white, and blue flags have been flown as part of Juneteenth festivities, but not using the stars and stripes of the American flag. Instead, the flag uses a blue top section, a red bottom section, and a white star in the middle, surrounded by a white, 12-pointed outline. This tradition began when the flag was first designed in 1997, and it continued to gain popularity throughout the 2000s.

However, some people have rejected the red, white, and blue colors in favor of a Pan-African design. Some versions of the Pan-African flag have been in use since the early 1920s, and they can encompass many different designs. That said, these flags almost always use red, green, yellow, and black.

In short, the colors you use to create Juneteenth decorations will largely depend on your personal tastes and beliefs. You may prefer the Pan-African colors, the colors of the American flag, or a combination of the two. And, since there are no “official” colors assigned to the holiday, it’s important to remember that you can still get creative and utilize whichever colors you think best represent the occasion!

Juneteenth Celebration Themes

There are many important themes to consider when designing Juneteenth decorations and crafts. Unlike some holidays that may have more whimsical undertones, Juneteenth is grounded in a very serious subject matter. At the same time, it is also a moment for open celebration. Therefore, you may choose to take a more sober approach to the festivities, or take the time to really celebrate freedom and progress. Either way, there are various themes that you can use to guide your hand will crafting:

Liberation

Perhaps the most important theme associated with June 19th is liberation. With the stroke of a pen, the U.S. government officially granted freedom to nearly 4 million slaves. Though it would take years before that liberating act would take effect, it served as the first major step toward liberty for African Americans and other disenfranchised minorities in the United States. Regardless of the kinds of decorations or crafts you choose to make, remember to keep the theme of liberation close at hand.

Progress

It’s easy to see that the country has come a long way since the days of slavery. While you may prefer to focus on the more sobering and tragic aspects of the holiday, it’s also important to appreciate the progress that has been made, thanks in large part to many activists who have worked hard to ensure that the descendants of former slaves can live fruitful and happy lives. Even though there are still plenty of changes that need to be made, it’s difficult to ignore just how far we, as a society, have come. Consider using progress as a theme for your decorations and crafts.

Social Justice

Juneteenth offers the opportunity to put greater focus on some of the injustices that still exist in the United States. There are many ways to help promote social justice and racial equality, from endorsing the Black Lives Matter movement to supporting black-owned businesses. Though Juneteenth is a celebration of the abolition of slavery, it is also a moment to reflect on what changes still need to be made. Learning about the history of racial injustice in the United States is a good start, and it may guide the direction of your decorations and crafts.

Pan-African Culture

Though Juneteenth is often a time to reflect on the suffering African Americans have lived through and the challenges they continue to face, it is also a time to take pride in one’s culture. Pan-Africanism offers a way for all people of African descent to come together and celebrate their unique roots. If you want to steer the festivities toward cultural pride and celebration, Pan-African decorations and crafts are a great option.

DIY Juneteenth Decorations

Now that we’ve looked at some of the colors and themes you can explore with your Juneteenth activities, let’s take a closer look at some specific decorations you can make on your own:

  • Cardstock Flags – A flag stands as a symbol of pride in one’s heritage. Whether you prefer to make the traditional red, white, and blue Juneteenth flag or the red, yellow, and green Pan-African flag, these will make for great decorations that automatically let people know why you’re celebrating. Since most people don’t have the patience to sit down and stitch together a cloth flag, it’s much easier and faster to use cardstock.
  • Banners – If you want to display specific messages related to the themes of Juneteenth, paper or cardstock banners are great options. You can cut out letters that say “Freedom” or “June 19th.” You can also create longer, more personalized messages of hope using cardstock and markers.
  • Paper Flowers – Paper flowers are an easy way to amplify the aesthetic appeal of your party or gathering. As previously mentioned, you can choose to make paper flowers using the traditional Juneteenth colors, or you can get creative and adapt them to fit your personal style.
  • Paper Wreaths – Like flowers, paper wreaths offer a simple way to decorate and express the mood of the day through color. Wreaths are particularly good for putting on the entrance to your party. Plus, you can combine paper wreaths with written messages for even greater effect.

DIY Juneteenth Crafts

Finally, you may want to find ways for you and your family to enjoy the festivities together. Making crafts can not only help you work together toward a common goal, but it can also help you celebrate in more personal ways. Here are a few popular examples of DIY Juneteenth crafts:

  • Handheld Flags – Handheld flags are easy to make with cardstock and popsicle sticks. This is a great activity for children, as it doesn’t require a lot of skill, but still results in fun items that can be waved with pride.
  • DIY Confetti Poppers – Homemade confetti poppers serve a duel purpose. They offer a simple way to enjoy a Juneteenth activity with your friends and family, and when you’re done, you can use the poppers to celebrate with a bang!
  • Personalized Drawings – This activity is particularly good for kids. You might help prompt your children to think of what Juneteenth means to them so that they can express themselves through drawing.
  • Historical Collages – Lastly, if you want to help remind people of what Juneteenth is all about, you may consider making historical collages that commemorate the biggest moments in the struggle for freedom and civil rights.

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Paper Size Guide

Whether you’re creating wedding invitations or printing important documents for work, you need to make sure you get the correct size of paper or cardstock. If you’ve spent any time shopping for paper, you know that there is a lot of terminology related to common sizes, most of which adhere to industry-wide standards. However, since these standards can vary from one region to the next, it can make it more difficult to ensure that you’re getting the right size paper to meet your needs.

In today’s guide, we’re going to discuss all of the most common (and a few uncommon) paper sizes, including names, dimensions, and popular uses. And remember, if you’re currently in the market for high-quality paper or cardstock, be sure to check out our products at Fine Cardstock today!

Standard Paper Sizes

While international standards include greater variations (which we will cover a little later on), there are a select few sizes that are most commonly used throughout North America and many parts of Latin America. The table below shows the correct dimensions for some of the most popular sizes, but continue reading to learn more about all of the sizes commonly used in the United States, Canada, and Mexico:

Name Width/Height (in) Width/Height (mm)
Letter 8.5 x 11 216 x 279
Legal 8.5 x 14 216 x 356
Tabloid 11 x 17 279 x 432
Ledger 17 x 11 432 x 279
Junior Legal 5 x 8 127 x 203
Half Letter 5.5 x 8.5 140 x 216

 

 

Letter

Letter or US Letter is one of the most common paper sizes in North America. Measuring 8.5 inches wide and 11 inches tall, Letter-sized paper is widely used for printed or written letters (hence the name), as well as standard documents and forms. While similar to the A4 size, Letter paper is slightly taller and a little less wide, making it easier to fold into most envelopes.
 

Legal

As the name implies, Legal paper is most often used for legal documents, including contracts, witness reports, affidavits, and other official forms and paperwork used in a court of law. Measuring 8.5 inches wide and 14 inches tall, Legal-sized paper offers more room for additional text and intricate formatting. However, since some legal paperwork requires highly-specific formatting, it is important to note that paper used for legal documents may use sizes that adhere to the requirements of the particular form. These sizes can differ from the standardized dimensions listed here.
 

Tabloid

Tabloid paper measures 11 inches wide and 17 inches tall. In the past, this paper was traditionally used for “tabloid” newspapers, which were smaller than standard newspapers. In addition to certain kinds of newspapers, Tabloid paper can also be used for larger documents, posters, and booklets. It is especially good for documents that include images, illustrations, or large layouts.
 

Ledger

While technically its own size, Ledger paper is the same size as Tabloid paper. Rather than being a “tall” size, Ledger is wide. It essentially takes the Tabloid paper and simply turns it on its side, measuring 17 inches wide and 11 inches tall. The name comes from this paper’s original use for financial ledgers. The wider dimensions make it ideal for accounting spreadsheets and similar documents that need to record multiple columns of data in a row.
 

Half Letter

While the name might imply that Half Letter is exactly half the size of standard Letter paper, this is not the case. Measuring 5.5 inches wide and 8.5 inches tall, Half Letter (also known as Statement size) is significantly smaller than Letter paper. Due to its small size, Half Letter paper is ideal for small brochures, notepads, and other documents designed for optimal portability.
 

Junior Legal

Though Junior Legal and Half Letter are often used interchangeably, they are technically different sizes. Junior Legal is slightly smaller, measuring 5 inches wide and 8 inches tall. Despite this difference, Junior Legal and Half Letter are often used for similar purposes, including brochures, brief memos, notepads, and compact documents.

ANSI Paper Sizes

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) sets specific paper sizes that are almost exclusively used in the United States and Canada. These sizes are based on the aforementioned Letter, Ledger, and Tabloid sizes, as well as a few larger sizes. ANSI also utilizes a more comprehensive system based on designated letters: A, B, C, D, and E. You can find the dimensions for each size in the table below:

Name Width/Height (in) Width/Height (mm)
ANSI A 8.5 x 11 216 x 279
ANSI B 11 x 17 279 x 432
ANSI C 17 x 22 432 x 559
ANSI D 22 x 34 559 x 864
ANSI E 34 x 44 864 x 1118

Additionally, here are some of the most common uses for each ANSI size:

  • ANSI A – Since its dimensions are the same as Letter paper, this size is most often used for letters and other documents that can be easily folded into a standard envelope.
  • ANSI B – Just like the Ledger and Tabloid sizes, ANSI B can be used for large-format documents, small posters, and spreadsheets.
  • ANSI C – This size is much larger than most standard documents, making it ideal for charts, diagrams, or even maps.
  • ANSI D – ANSI D is particularly useful for engineering purposes, as its large size works well for technical drawings and large charts.
  • ANSI E – Lastly, ANSI E is the largest size within this system, and it can also be put to use for engineering or architectural purposes.

Arch Paper Sizes

Arch paper size, which is short for “Architectural” paper size, refers to a series of standardized dimensions typically reserved for use by architects, engineers, and other technical professionals. Unlike ANSI sizes which all have distinct aspect ratios, Arch sizes all have a ratio of 4:3. This makes it easier for professionals to scale up or down in size. You can find the precise dimensions for each Arch paper size in the table below:

Name Width/Height (in) Width/Height (mm)
Arch A 9 x 12 229 x 305
Arch B 12 x 18 305 x 457
Arch C 18 x 24 457 x 610
Arch D 24 x 36 610 x 914
Arch E 36 x 48 914 x 1219
Arch E1 30 x 42 762 x 1067
Arch E2 26 x 38 660 x 965
Arch E3 27 x 39 686 x 991

Here are some of the most common uses for each Arch size:

  • Arch A – This is the smallest of the Arch paper sizes and is typically used for small drawings and sketches.
  • Arch B – Arch B is larger than Letter paper and makes a good fit for standard documents or diagrams.
  • Arch C – Arch C represents a significant step up in size and it works well for larger site plans and layouts.
  • Arch D – This size is commonly used for full-scale engineering or architectural drawings.
  • Arch E – Arch E is even larger than Arch D and can be used for large-format maps or drawings.
  • Arch E1 – This variation of Arch E is a little smaller, but is equally useful for large architectural plans.
  • Arch E2 – Arch E2 falls between Arch D and Arch E1 and may be chosen for technical documents that require very specific dimensions.
  • Arch E3 – Like Arch E2, Arch E3 is a smaller variation that works well for a wide range of professional drawings.

A Paper Sizes

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) develops standards for a wide variety of products, including paper. Since many of the sizes previously mentioned in this guide are almost exclusively used in North America, it is important to note standard paper sizes that are used worldwide.

The ISO 216 A series standardizes paper sizes internationally using the metric system. Rather than developing sizes based on functional purposes (Letter, Ledger, Tabloid, etc.), “A” paper sizes use an aspect ratio of the square root of 2, which is approximately 1.41. You can find the dimensions for the most common ISO 216 A paper sizes in the table below:

Name Width/Height (in) Width/Height (mm)
A0 33.1 x 46.8 841 x 1189
A1 23.4 x 33.1 594 x 841
A2 16.5 x 23.4 420 x 594
A3 11.7 x 16.5 297 x 420
A4 8.3 x 11.7 210 x 297
A5 5.8 x 8.3 148 x 210
A6 4.1 x 5.8 105 x 148
A7 2.9 x 4.1 74 x 105

A0

As the largest of the ISO 216 A paper sizes, A0 is frequently used for large posters and technical drawings. Measuring 33.1 inches wide and 46.8 inches tall, its size is only a little smaller than the size of Arch E. This makes A0 paper a good fit for many engineering and architectural projects.

A1

A1 is a significant step down in size from A0. Consequently, it is often reserved for medium posters or charts for small presentations. Measuring 23.4 inches wide and 33.1 inches tall, the A1 size is most similar to the ANSI D and Arch D sizes.

A2

A2 is still much larger than standard Letter paper, which means it is a good fit for posters and large-format documents. Measuring 16.5 inches wide and 23.4 inches tall, A2 is close to the ANSI C. A2 paper is also commonly used to make calendars.

A3

A3 paper is very similar to Tabloid or Ledger paper. Depending on how it is oriented, A3 can be used for standard documents, magazine pages, or spreadsheets. Internationally, A3 is one of the most common sizes, second only to A4.

A4

A4 is the most common paper size in the world and is often used for standard letters, documents, and forms. Measuring 8.3 inches wide and 11.7 inches tall, A4 is very close to the standard North American “Letter” size, albeit slightly shorter and wider. A4 is frequently used in offices, schools, and other professional settings. It is also one of the most versatile sizes within the ISO 216 A series, as it can be used for written or typed paperwork, photocopying, business reports, and much more.

A5

A5 is the largest size among the “A” series that is still smaller than most other standardized paper sizes. Measuring 5.8 inches wide and 8.3 inches tall, A5 is closest in appearance to the Half Letter. As a result, it is most often used for small flyers, booklets, and notepads.

A6

A6 is 4.1 inches wide and 5.8 inches tall, making it too small for standard letters or forms. However, A6 is commonly used for postcards, notepads, or invitations. Due to its size, A6 is often seen in cardstock, as opposed to regular printer paper.

A7

A7 is the smallest size in the common “A” series. Measuring 2.9 inches wide and 4.1 inches tall, A7 often has highly specific uses in commercial settings. For example, A7 paper or cardstock can work for very small notepads, tickets, or product labels.

Additional A Sizes

It’s important to note that A0 through A7 are not the only sizes in the ISO 216 A series; they just happen to be the most common. However, you can also find sizes that are smaller than A7, larger than A0, as well as sizes that do not fit within ISO’s standard sizes, but are used and referenced nonetheless. You can find the dimensions for these additional “A” sizes in the tables below:

Smaller Sizes

Name Width/Height (in) Width/Height (mm)
A8 2.05 x 2.91 52 x 74
A9 1.46 x 2.05 37 x 52
A10 1.02 x 1.46 26 x 37
A11 0.7 x 1.00 18 x 26
A12 0.5 x 0.7 13 x 18
A13 0.4 x 0.5 9 x 13

Larger Sizes

Name Width/Height (in) Width/Height (mm)
2A0 46.8 x 66.2 1189 x 1682
4A0 66.2 x 93.6 1682 x 2378

*Non-Standard Sizes

Name Width/Height (in) Width/Height (mm)
A0+ 33.2 x 46.9 843 x 1191
A1+ 23.5 x 33.2 597 x 843
A3+ 11.8 x 16.6 299 x 421

*The “+” sign denotes sizes that are not standardized but may be slightly larger due to uneven trimmings or differences between manufacturers. The measurements listed are approximations.

B Paper Sizes

The ISO 216 B series falls between the respective sizes in the “A” series, offering more options to meet certain layout requirements or document specifications. You can find the dimensions for each of the “B” paper sizes, including standard B0 to B10, as well as less common and non-standard alternatives like B11 to B13 and “+” sizes in the sections below:

Common B Sizes

Name Width/Height (in) Width/Height (mm)
B0 39.4 x 55.7 1000 x 1414
B1 27.8 x 39.4 707 x 1000
B2 19.7 x 27.8 500 x 707
B3 13.9 x 19.7 353 x 500
B4 9.8 x 13.9 250 x 353
B5 6.9 x 9.8 176 x 250
B6 4.9 x 6.9 125 x 176
B7 3.5 x 4.9 88 x 125
B8 2.4 x 3.5 62 x 88
B9 1.7 x 2.4 44 x 62
B10 1.2 x 1.7 31 x 44

Non-Standard Sizes

Name Width/Height (in) Width/Height (mm)
B11 0.9 x 1.2 22 x 31
B12 0.6 x 0.9 15 x 22
B13 0.4 x 0.6 11 x 15
*B0+ 39.5 x 55.8 1003 x 1417
*B1+ 27.9 x 39.5 708 x 1003
*B2+ 19.8 x 27.9 502 x 708

*The “+” sign denotes sizes that are not standardized but may be slightly larger due to uneven trimmings or differences between manufacturers. The measurements listed are approximations.

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Envelope Size Guide

When you need to send out letters, invitations, or any other correspondence en masse, you want to make sure that you get the envelope size(s) right. While you can make most kinds of printer paper fit in standard envelope sizes, you might have to use some creative folding techniques, especially if you’re sending more than one document in each envelope. Moreover, if you’re using cardstock or similarly thick paper for invitations or announcements, you’ll need to make sure that you get the envelope size exactly right.

In today’s guide, we’re going to look at the dimensions and common uses for different kinds of envelopes. And remember, if you’re currently in need of envelopes for business or personal use, be sure to check out all we have to offer at Fine Cardstock today!

Standard Envelope Sizes

In the United States, standard envelope sizes are designated by numbers ranging from #5 to #14. The lowest numbers on the scale refer to envelopes with smaller dimensions, while the highest numbers on the scale refer to envelopes with larger dimensions. You can find the precise dimensions for these standard envelope sizes in the table below:

Number Height/Width (in) Height/Width (mm)
#5 3.125 x 5.5 79 x 139
#6-1/4 3.5 x 6 89 x 152
#6-3/4 3.625 x 6.5 92 x 165
#7 3.75 x 6.75 95 x 171
#7-1/2 3.875 x 7.5 98 x 191
#8-5/8 3.625 x 8.625 92 x 219
#9 3.875 x 8.875 98 x 225
#10 4.125 x 9.5 105 x 241
#11 4.5 x 10.375 114 x 264
#12 4.75 x 11 121 x 279
#14 5 x 11.5 127 x 292

 

 

#5 Envelopes

#5 is the smallest among the standard envelope sizes in the United States. Measuring 3.125 inches tall and 5.5 inches wide, the #5 envelope is ideal for personal stationery and small notes. But as previously mentioned, if you’re using thin paper or special folding techniques, you can still use #5 (and many other sizes) for a wide range of purposes.
 

#6-1/4 Envelopes

#6-1/4 is the next size up from #5 envelopes. Measuring 3.5 inches tall and 6 inches wide, this size envelope works well for standard letters or greeting cards.
 

#6-3/4 Envelopes

#6-3/4 is another standard envelope that you will commonly see in your mailbox, particularly if you run a business. Measuring 3.625 inches tall and 6.5 inches wide, this envelope is often used for checks, invoices, and official documents.
 

#7 Envelopes

#7 is slightly larger than the #6-3/4 envelope. It measures 3.75 inches tall and 6.75 inches wide. While #7 can be used for many different kinds of letters and messages, it is ideal for announcements and greeting cards.
 

#7-1/2 Envelopes

#7-1/2 is another envelope that is commonly used by businesses of all sizes. The #7-1/2 measures 3.875 inches tall and 7.5 inches wide. The additional width makes it ideal for larger invoices, memos, and financial reports.
 

#8-5/8 Envelopes

Generally, as the size increases among standard envelopes, they become more beneficial for commercial use and less beneficial for personal use. The #8-5/8 envelope is no exception. Measuring 3.625 inches tall and 8.625 inches wide, this envelope works well for checks or documentation that requires larger pieces of paper.
 

#9 Envelopes

The #9 envelope is another size that works very well for businesses. Measuring 3.875 inches tall and 8.875 inches wide, this size is most often used for business reply envelopes. These envelopes can easily fit inside a #10 envelope, making it easy to send out notifications to consumers so that they can quickly respond by mail.
 

#10 Envelopes

The #10 is the most popular size for standard business letters. Measuring 4.125 inches tall and 9.5 inches wide, this envelope can fit most types of commercial documentation — from credit card offers to promotional announcements.
 

#11 Envelopes

#11 measures 4.5 inches tall and 10.375 inches wide. This makes it a good fit for large documents or correspondence that have multiple pages, like product catalogs.
 

#12 Envelopes

#12 is one of the largest standard envelopes for business use. Due to its large size (4.75 inches x 11 inches), #12 is perfect for mail that has more than 2-3 folded pages inside. This might include contracts or legal forms.
 

#14 Envelopes

Finally, #14 is the largest of the standard-sized U.S. envelopes. The #14 measures 5 inches tall and 11.5 inches wide, and is generally reserved for larger packets of paper, brochures, or other documents that need to be folded to fit properly.

 

Invitation Envelope Sizes

In addition to the standard personal and commercial envelopes outlined above, you can also choose from various sizes designed specifically for things like special announcements, greeting cards, and invitations. You can find the dimensions for these envelopes in the table below:

Number Height/Width (in) Height/Width (mm)
A2 4.375 x 5.75 111 x 146
A6 4.75 x 6.5 120 x 165
A7 5.25 x 7.25 133 x 184
5×5 (Square) 5 x 5 127 x 127

 

 

A2 Envelopes

A2 is the shortest of the invitation envelopes, but not necessarily the smallest. Measuring 4.375 inches tall and 5.75 inches wide, the A2 is a good size for thank you messages, RSVP cards, and smaller invitations.
 

A6 Envelopes

The A6 invitation envelope measures 4.75 inches tall and 6.5 inches wide. This height-to-width ratio makes it ideal for most kinds of invitations and announcements, as well as special photos.
 

A7 Envelopes

A7 is the largest of the invitation envelopes, measuring 5.25 inches tall and 7.25 inches wide. This is a very popular option for wedding invitations, baby shower invitations, and other important event messages that typically require a response.
 

5×5 (Square) Envelopes

As the name implies, the 5×5 is a perfectly square invitation envelope. It can work for many different announcements and invitations, but it is specifically designed to be paired with square paper or cardstock.

Standard Catalog and Booklet Envelope Sizes

If you need to send out large packets of information, booklets, or brochures, you may need to rely on envelopes that are specifically designed to handle the extra size and weight. You can either choose booklet envelopes, which have a flap on the longer side, or catalog envelopes, which have a flap on the shorter side. In the sections below, we will take a closer look at the three standard catalog and booklet envelope sizes:

 

6×9 Envelopes

As the name indicates, this envelope measures 6 inches by 9 inches (152 mm x 229 mm). As the smallest among the catalog and booklet envelopes, this size works best for relatively small brochures and documents. 6×9 can also be used for direct mail campaigns and promotional materials.
 

9×12 Envelopes

The 9×12 envelope measures 9 inches by 12 inches (229 mm x 305 mm). Since it is roughly 33% larger than the 6×9 envelope, it can handle much larger documents and packets. These envelopes are frequently used to send presentation material, as the envelopes are large enough to contain a lot of paper without the need for excessive folding.
 

10×13 Envelopes

The 10×13 measures 10 inches by 13 inches (254 mm x 330 mm). As the largest of all the catalog or booklet envelopes, the 10×13 can fit larger documents with just one fold or no folds at all. The size helps make 10×13 good for contracts and other important documents that cannot be disfigured in transit.

Ready to start your next project? Check out our high-quality cardstock today, and let us know how you put our cardstock to good use!

Cricut Mat For Cardstock Guide

Cricut machines have completely changed the way people think about arts and crafts. Rather than depending on dangerous paper cutters or the steadiness of your own hand, you can now see amazing cardstock creations come to life with just the press of a button! That said, you can’t just start loading your cardstock into your Cricut machine without knowing a few things first. Most importantly, you’ll need to learn how to use a Cricut mat.

These mats are an integral part of cutting with a Cricut machine. While some people may try to load their cardstock into the machine and start cutting without a mat, this is definitely not the best method. In fact, it could cause harm to your cardstock and your Cricut machine.

But what even is a Cricut mat? What purpose does it serve? What do the different colors of Cricut mats mean? What color Cricut mat should you use for cardstock? How do put cardstock on a Cricut mat and take it back off again? Finally, where can you get high-quality cardstock for your next Cricut project?

In today’s guide, we will answer all of these questions and more. So, let’s get started!

What Is a Cricut Mat?

A Cricut mat is a cutting mat specifically designed for Cricut machines. The mat has a sticky surface that holds the material in place while the machine does the actual cutting. Various materials work with Cricut mats, including printer paper, vinyl, fabric, and cardstock.

Cricut mats come in different sizes and adhesive strengths to accommodate a wide range of materials and project types. The most common sizes are 12×12 inches and 12×24 inches. The adhesive strength varies depending on the type of mat:

  • LightGrip Mat (Blue) – This is designed for lightweight materials such as copy paper, vellum, light cardstock, and some thin vinyl. The LightGrip mat has a low-tack adhesive that holds materials in place without causing damage when they are removed.
  • StandardGrip Mat (Green) – This is suitable for medium-weight materials such as cardstock, patterned paper, adhesive vinyl, and iron-on materials. The StandardGrip mat has a medium-tack adhesive to hold these materials securely during the cutting process.
  • StrongGrip Mat (Purple) – The purple grip mat is designed for heavyweight materials such as thick cardstock, chipboard, certain fabrics, and leather. It has a high-tack adhesive to keep thicker, heavier materials from moving around.
  • FabricGrip Mat (Pink) – This mat is specifically designed for working with fabrics, such as cotton, felt, and denim. The FabricGrip mat has a specially formulated adhesive to hold fabrics in place without leaving residue on the material or damaging the fibers.

Can You Cut Cardstock On A Cricut Without A Mat?

While it is technically possible to cut cardstock on a Cricut without a mat, it is not recommended. The mat is designed to hold the material securely in place while the machine cuts, ensuring precision and preventing the material from slipping out of place. Cutting without a mat increases the risk of damaging the cardstock, ruining your project, or causing potential harm to your machine.

If you attempt to cut cardstock without a mat, be aware that you do so at your own risk. The results may not be as precise or clean as they would be with a mat. Additionally, cutting without a mat may void your Cricut machine’s warranty, so it is essential to consider the consequences before proceeding. Most expert crafters recommend always using a mat, regardless of the material you intend to cut. Not only does this result in a better cut, but it also avoids any potential problems with your machine.

Which Cricut Mat Is Best For Cardstock?

The best Cricut mat for cardstock is the StandardGrip mat (Green). As the name implies, the StandardGrip is the most common Cricut mat and works well with a wide range of materials. However, if you need to cut a particularly thick piece of cardstock (80 lbs and above), you’ll probably want to upgrade to the StrongGrip mat. This will prevent any slippage as the cardstock and mat pass through the machine.

How To Place Cardstock On Cricut Mats

Understanding how Cricut mats work is just the first step. Now it’s time to see how to put cardstock on Cricut mats and then get the cardstock off again. For the best results, simply follow these steps:

  1. Clean the Mat – Make sure the mat’s surface does not have any dust or debris on it before you get started. If necessary, gently clean it with a baby wipe or a damp cloth and let it air dry.
  2. Remove the Protective Cover – Peel off the clear protective cover from the mat, exposing the adhesive surface. Set the cover aside, as you’ll need to use it again later.
  3. Position the Cardstock – Place the cardstock on the mat, aligning it with the top left corner. Ensure the mat and cardstock remain straight and smooth, with no wrinkles or bubbles.
  4. Press Down Firmly – Use your hand or a brayer tool to press the cardstock onto the mat, making sure it adheres evenly to the surface. Pay special attention to the edges and corners to ensure they stay securely in place.
  5. Load the Mat – Insert the mat into the Cricut machine, aligning it with the guides on either side of the machine’s opening. Press the Load/Unload button (or the flashing arrow button, depending on the model) to load the mat into the machine.
  6. Cut Your Design – Once the mat is loaded, proceed with cutting your design according to the Cricut machine’s instructions.

How To Remove Cardstock From Cricut Mats

Once you’re done cutting, you’ll need to carefully remove the cardstock from the Cricut mat and put the protective cover back over the mat. Here are the steps you’ll need to follow:

  1. Prepare the Mat – After pressing the Load/Unload button again, gently place the mat on a flat surface with the cardstock facing up.
  2. Peel the Mat Off – Instead of peeling the cardstock off the mat, bend the mat slightly and carefully peel it away from the cardstock. This will help prevent the cardstock from curling or tearing. Start at one corner and work your way across the mat, keeping the mat as close to the table surface as possible.
  3. Try a Spatula – It is not uncommon for the cardstock to get stuck to the Cricut mat. If your cardstock is sticking to the Cricut mat or you have intricate cuts, use a Cricut spatula tool to gently lift the cardstock from the mat. Slide the spatula under the cardstock, but be careful not to damage the cardstock or the mat’s adhesive surface.
  4. Remove Remaining Pieces – Once you have transferred the main piece cardstock from the Cricut mat, use the spatula or a pair of tweezers to remove any remaining cutouts or negative pieces.
  5. Clean the Mat – Check the mat again for any debris or leftover paper pieces. If necessary, use a scraper tool to gently remove them.
  6. Replace the Protective Cover – Place the clear protective cover back onto the mat, making sure it is smooth and free of wrinkles or bubbles. This will help preserve the adhesive and keep the mat clean for future use.

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How To Remove Ink From Cardstock Paper

Whenever you use ink for arts and crafts, you’re bound to have a few spills here and there. Unfortunately, if you spill ink on cardstock paper, it can be pretty difficult to fix. There’s no magic ink remover that will wash the ink off in seconds. That said, a little spilled ink doesn’t have to spell disaster for your project. There are various ways to reduce or eliminate an unwanted ink stain without damaging your cardstock.

In today’s guide, we will teach you how to get ink off cardstock and discuss some of the best methods for dealing with ink stains in general. So, let’s get started!

Types Of Ink Stains

Most people assume that the best method for cleaning ink depends on the material that needs cleaning. While this is partially true, it does not factor in the different types of ink. Certain types of ink are more receptive to specific cleaning practices than others. We will get into these practices a little later on, but first, let’s take a look at some of the most common types of ink:

  • Ballpoint Ink – This ink is oil-based and most commonly used in ballpoint pens. It is less prone to smudging than most other types of ink, but it can still cause unwanted stains.
  • Gel Ink – Gel ink is water-based and often used in gel pens. It provides a smoother writing experience and richer colors, but the ink can be more challenging to remove from surfaces.
  • Rollerball Ink – This type of ink is water-based and used in rollerball pens. Rollerball ink has a higher water content, which makes it flow more smoothly, but it can also result in more prominent stains.
  • Fountain Pen Ink – Fountain pen ink is water-based and typically contains more liquid than other types of ink. This can lead to potential smudging and staining, but it also means the ink can be easier to remove from certain materials.
  • Permanent Ink – As the name implies, permanent ink is designed to resist water and other solvents, making it very difficult to remove. Permanent ink is often used in markers and can bond with surfaces quickly and effectively.
  • India Ink – India ink is a waterproof, carbon-based ink that has been used for centuries. Nowadays, it is primarily used in calligraphy and drawing and can be very difficult to remove once it dries.
  • Printer Ink – Printer ink, both inkjet and laser, can cause stains if spilled or if a printed item comes into contact with water. Inkjet ink is generally water-based and may be easier to remove, while laser printer toner is a fine powder that can be more challenging to clean.

Tools & Materials Needed For Ink Removal

Whenever you’re working with ink and cardstock together, you should try to have certain tools and materials on hand just in case. You never know when an unexpected spill or an erroneous stroke of the pen could happen. While the exact materials you’ll need may vary based on the type of ink you’re using, it’s generally a good idea to keep some or all of the following items nearby:

  • White Eraser
  • Cotton Balls
  • Rubbing Alcohol
  • Tissue Paper
  • Nail Polish Remover
  • Clear Adhesive Tape
  • Sandpaper
  • Box Cutter
  • White Correction Fluid

When attempting to remove ink stains from cardstock, always test any cleaning methods on an inconspicuous area first, as cardstock can be easily damaged. Keep in mind that completely removing an ink stain from cardstock may not be possible, and it might be necessary to accept some level of damage.

How To Remove Ink From Cardstock

Now that you know a little bit more about different types of ink and the kinds of tools you should have on hand, let’s examine the best ways to actually remove ink from your cardstock:

Erasing Pen Ink From Cardstock

Using an eraser is one of the best methods to use with ballpoint ink (oil-based ink). However, it’s important to note that this method may be more effective for light ink stains. While you may not be able to get rid of all of the ink, this is still one of the best ways to minimize the damage. To erase pen ink from your cardstock, simply follow these steps:

  1. Find a clean, white eraser for the pen ink. Avoid using colored erasers or hard rubber erasers, as they may leave smudges on the cardstock.
  2. Test the eraser on an area of the cardstock to see how well it works with the material. If it causes substantial discoloration, you’ll want to try a different method.
  3. Gently rub the eraser over the ink stain. Be careful not to press too hard, as this may damage the cardstock.
  4. Make sure to brush away the eraser residue as you erase. Any excess residue could cause unwanted smearing.
  5. Repeat the process as needed.

Removing Gel Pen Ink From Cardstock

Gel pen (water-based) ink can, at times, be a little easier to remove from cardstock than oil-based ink. This is especially true if the ink has yet to dry. Oil-based inks often dry very quickly, making it virtually impossible to blot up any stains. On the other hand, gel pen ink can take up to 30 seconds or longer to dry, giving you more time to actually remove large portions of the stain from your cardstock before it can set in. Here are a few different ways to remove gel pen ink (and most water-based inks) from cardstock:

  • Blot the Ink – If the ink is still wet, gently blot it with a white cloth, cotton ball, or tissue to absorb as much ink as possible. Avoid rubbing or smearing the ink, as this can cause it to spread or set further into the cardstock.
  • Use Rubbing Alcohol – If the ink is already dry (or mostly dry), dampen a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol and gently dab the ink stain. Be very careful not to over-saturate the cardstock. Rubbing alcohol can help break down the ink and lift it from the paper fibers. Allow the cardstock to dry completely before handling it further.
  • Try Clear Adhesive Tape – Press a piece of clear adhesive tape onto the ink stain and carefully lift it away. This method may help remove some ink from the surface of the cardstock, but it may not work on stains that have already set in.
  • Sand or Cut the Stain – If the ink is already completely dry, you still might be able to sand or chip away at a small ink stain with sandpaper or a box cutter. Use extreme caution though, as this method can easily damage the paper if not done carefully. This method works best on thicker cardstock.
  • Cover the Stain – When all else fails, you can simply try to cover the stain with white correction fluid.

Remove Printer Ink From Cardstock

Many of the same methods that work for gel pen ink also work for printer ink, as most printer ink is also water-based. This means you should try to blot up the ink stain as quickly as possible. If the ink is dry, you can also try some of the other methods outlined above. If you don’t have any rubbing alcohol, nail polish remover is a great substitute when treating printer ink stains on cardstock.

Ready to start your next project? Check out our high-quality cardstock today, and let us know how you put our cardstock to good use!