There’s something about the feeling of paper on your fingertips and receiving a card that’s not just tangible, but personalised, that remains simply undefeated. When it comes to creating DIY wedding invitations, personalised birthday cards or intricate holiday greetings, handmade is the way to go. And when it comes to handmade, Art Shed’s card-making supplies give you the quality foundations to turn simple paper into a memento worth keeping.
Choose from blank cardstocks, matching envelopes and decorative papers in a variety of sizes, colours and finishes. Whether your style is elegant and understated or colourful and wonderfully over-the-top, there is plenty of room to make each card your own.
The Essentials of Custom Card Making: Paper, Sizes, and Finishes
The paper you choose provides the foundation for your design, so consider both GSM and finish before reaching for the glitter. For card bases, around 240–300 GSM is a useful starting point, providing enough structure for the card to stand upright while supporting embellishments, paint, inks and decorative elements.
Popular formats include A6 and 5 x 7 inch cards, although the right size ultimately depends on your design and what you want to include inside. Pre-scored card and envelope sets are particularly convenient because the fold is already positioned, giving you a clean, professional result while ensuring your envelope matches the card.
Surface finish matters too. Smooth matte cardstock is excellent for crisp writing, markers and detailed illustrations, while textured papers can add visual and tactile interest to more decorative designs. If you plan to use wet media, choose a cardstock capable of handling light washes without excessive warping.
Our cardmaking papers are also acid- and lignin-free, helping protect your finished creations from yellowing and deterioration over time, which makes all the difference when your handmade cards become keepsakes rather than something destined for the recycling bin.
Beyond the Blank Canvas: Tools for Elevated Papercraft
Great cardmaking starts with good paper, but the finishing touches are what can turn a simple design into something that looks straight out of a boutique.
Precision cutting tools help create clean edges, shapes and layers, while acid-free scrapbooking adhesives keep components securely attached without compromising your paper over time. Double-sided foam tape is particularly useful for creating raised, dimensional elements that give designs a subtle 3D effect.
For decoration, markers and inks can add vibrant illustrations, borders and patterns. Calligraphy supplies are ideal for hand-lettered sentiments, while drawing markers can bring illustrations and colourful details to life. For detailed designs, explore coloured pencils.
Explore ArtShed to keep everything together with suitable papercraft adhesives and start building a toolkit that makes every future project easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best paper weight for card making?
A 240–300 GSM cardstock is a strong starting point for sturdy, durable card bases.
Are your cardmaking supplies acid-free?
Our cardmaking papers are acid- and lignin-free, helping finished cards remain in good condition for longer.
Do the cards come with matching envelopes?
Yes. Card and Envelope packs provide convenient matching combinations, taking the guesswork out of sizing and colour coordination.
Can I use watercolours or acrylics on these blank cards?
Some heavier, more absorbent cardstocks can handle light watercolour washes. Acrylics and heavier wet media may require a more suitable surface. For dry media such as markers and coloured pencils, smooth cardstock is generally a convenient choice.
With the right card-making supplies, every blank card becomes an opportunity to create something personal. Start with quality cardstock, add your favourite colours and embellishments, and make a keepsake that means more because you made it yourself.