When you're shopping for cardstock, the numbers on the package can feel confusing. What does 110 lb actually mean? Is it heavier than what you need, or lighter? The answer depends entirely on what you're making. This guide walks you through the practical decisions you'll need to make, using Neenah White Index Paper, Mediumweight, 199 gsm, 8.5" x 11" as a reference point.

Understanding Cardstock Weight

Cardstock is measured by weight in two different ways depending on where you live and who's selling it. In the United States, you'll often see pounds (lb), while the rest of the world uses grams per square meter (gsm). The Neenah White Index Paper comes in at 110 lb, which equals 199 gsm. This is the medium-weight option—heavier than standard copy paper but lighter than full coverstock.

The confusion happens because the pound measurement varies depending on what type of paper you're comparing. A 110 lb index cardstock feels thicker than 110 lb coverstock because the base sheet size used for measurement is different. When you're comparing products, always check whether you're looking at index weight or cover weight to make a fair comparison.

What Projects Need Medium-Weight Cardstock

The Neenah White Index Paper at 199 gsm works well for several everyday applications. Business cards, flyers, brochures, and postcards all benefit from this weight. It's sturdy enough to handle repeated handling without bending easily, but it still feeds smoothly through most office equipment.

If you're making invitations, programs for an event, or printed documents that need to feel substantial in someone's hands, this medium weight strikes a good balance. It's also suitable for calligraphy, hand lettering, and craft projects where you want a professional foundation without excessive thickness. The 300-sheet count means you have plenty on hand for ongoing projects or to test before committing to larger quantities.

Brightness and Print Quality

The Neenah White Index Paper rates at 94 brightness, which describes how much light the paper reflects. Higher brightness means sharper contrast between black ink and the white background, making text and images appear crisper. This matters most if you're printing high-resolution photographs or documents where detail and readability are important.

The smooth texture of this cardstock is designed to work well in inkjet and laser printers. Smooth surfaces generally produce better print quality than textured papers because ink sits more uniformly on the surface. The paper is also lignin and acid-free, which means it resists yellowing and degradation over time—important if your printed documents need to last years.

Compatibility with Your Equipment

Before buying, check your printer's maximum paper weight specification. Most standard office copiers and printers handle cardstock up to about 110 lb without jamming, but some machines have lower limits. The Neenah White Index Paper at 199 gsm should work in most modern equipment, though you may need to adjust settings or feed it manually in some cases.

Double-sided printing is possible with this weight, though you should test a few sheets first to confirm your specific printer handles it smoothly. The cardstock's design for jam-free results helps, but older machines may still need manual feeding for optimal results.

Storage and Longevity

Cardstock stays in good condition when stored in a cool, dry place with moderate humidity. Keep the ream in its original packaging when not in use to prevent dust and moisture from settling on individual sheets. Because the Neenah White Index Paper is acid-free and lignin-free, your finished prints will remain bright and white for years without the yellowing that affects lower-quality papers.

The 300-sheet count gives you enough for most projects, and since cardstock doesn't degrade quickly in storage, you can keep extra on hand without worry about it going bad. Use what you need, seal the package, and return to it when your next project requires medium-weight white cardstock.

The product in this guide: Neenah White Index Paper, Mediumweight, 300 Sheets, 199 gsm, 94 Brightness, 8.5" x 11" - MORE SHEETS! (91635)