Best printer for cardstock: Three top picks for exceptional results

Are you looking to take your cardstock printing projects to the next level? If you're an avid crafter, a small business owner, or a creative enthusiast, having the right printer can make all the difference in producing stunning, professional-quality results right from home. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the best one?

In this blog, we'll discuss the essentials of selecting the best printer for cardstock. We'll examine what makes cardstock unique and why a specialized printer is crucial, as well as highlight key features to look for. Plus, we'll share our top three printer picks that promise exceptional results without the fuss. 

And if you're not ready to invest in equipment, we'll introduce you to Gelato's services—an ideal alternative for top-notch prints that you can leverage from anywhere.

• Selecting the right printer ensures cardstock prints are smudge-free, durable, and high quality.

• Key features such as heavyweight paper compatibility and borderless printing capabilities enhance versatility.

• Top picks include models tailored for inkjet and laser printing needs, each offering unique advantages.

• Inkjet printers shine in versatility, while laser printers excel in speed and efficiency for large projects.

• Gelato's on-demand services offer a convenient alternative, providing high-quality cardstock prints without needing specialized equipment.

Cardstock is a type of thick, durable paper often used for crafting, business cards, and creative projects. Distinguished by its weight, thickness, and smooth or textured finish, it offers versatility for various applications. Cardstock ranges in weight, typically around 65 to 110 lbs, and supports vibrant ink colors, making it ideal for high-quality, professional-looking prints.

When it comes to creating stunning prints, not all printers are equal. Let's explore why picking the right photo printer for cardstock projects can make a world of difference in quality and efficiency. 

Delivers professional-quality prints

A high-quality printer ensures crisp text, vibrant colors, and sharp details when printing on card stock. Standard printers may struggle with thick paper, leading to faded prints or uneven ink distribution. The right printer delivers professional-grade results, making your projects look polished and impressive. Be it printing business cards, invitations, or marketing materials, the best printer will deliver a flawless finish. 

Supports thicker card stock without smudging or warping

A dedicated card stock printer applies the right amount of ink without causing smudging, bleeding, or warping and saves money on ink costs. Some printers have adjustable settings to accommodate various paper thicknesses, ensuring smooth printing every time. Without proper support, thicker stock may get stuck or come out distorted. Choosing the best printer for card stock ensures clean, high-quality prints. 

Enables borderless printing for full-bleed designs

A printer with borderless printing capability is essential for projects that require a smooth, edge-to-edge appearance. Standard printers often leave white margins, limiting design possibilities. A high-quality card stock printer allows full-bleed printing, ensuring that colors and images extend to the edges of the paper. This is crucial for professional-looking postcards, business cards, and event invitations.

Ensures durability for long-lasting prints

The best printers use pigment-based inks that resist fading, smudging, and water damage, keeping your prints vibrant over time. This is particularly important for greeting cards, keepsakes, and marketing materials that must withstand handling and exposure. Cheap printers may produce prints that fade or deteriorate quickly, producing unprofessional results. 

Provides versatility for creative projects

From invitations and greeting cards to scrapbooking and art prints, a good printer for card stock offers endless creative possibilities. Many advanced models support various finishes, including glossy, matte, and textured papers, giving you greater design flexibility. Instead of being limited to standard paper, you can explore more creative avenues with a printer that handles card stock efficiently.

Prevents paper jams and printer damage

Using the wrong printer for card stock can lead to frustrating paper jams and potential damage to your machine. Many standard printers aren’t built to handle thicker materials, causing feeding issues or mechanical failure. A dedicated card stock printer has specialized feed mechanisms that prevent jams, ensuring smooth and hassle-free color printing. This protects your printer and materials. 

Saves time and reduces material waste

A printer that’s optimized for card stock eliminates common printing issues like misfeeds, ink smudges, and paper jams, saving you time and resources. With precise ink application and smooth feeding mechanisms, you won’t have to deal with reprints or wasted materials. Choosing the right printer means fewer errors, consistent quality, and lower costs in the long run. 

Now that you know why choosing the best printer for your card stock is essential, let's explore the key features to look for when choosing a printer for your needs. 

Heavyweight paper compatibility

Look for models with an adjustable paper tray and a straight paper path to prevent bending. Laser printers often handle heavier paper better than inkjets, but some high-end inkjets are designed for cardstock. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for the maximum paper thickness supported, usually measured in GSM (grams per square meter). A printer with multiple media support ensures professional-quality results without very heavy cardstock feed issues.

High-resolution print quality

A crisp, vibrant finish is crucial for card printing, whether for business cards, invitations, or greeting cards. High-resolution printers with at least 1200 DPI (dots per inch) ensure sharp details and true-to-life colors. Look for models with advanced color technology, such as pigment-based ink or laser precision. A printer that supports color calibration can enhance output quality, reducing banding or color inconsistencies. If printing images or intricate designs, a photo-quality inkjet printer is the best choice.

Printer speed and efficiency

Card printing can be time-consuming, especially when producing large batches. A fast printer with a high page-per-minute (PPM) rating ensures efficiency without compromising quality. Laser printers typically outperform inkjets in speed, making them ideal for bulk printing. Features like automatic duplex printing and high-capacity trays minimize manual intervention. If you’re running a business or printing frequently, invest in a printer with a higher-duty cycle to ensure long-term reliability.

Ink cartridges and toner costs

Running costs can add up quickly, especially with high-volume printing. Inkjet printers tend to have lower upfront costs but higher ink expenses, while laser printers offer cost-effective toner options in the long run. Consider printers with separate ink tanks instead of combined cartridges, as they reduce waste and save money. Compatible or refillable ink options can also lower costs. Check the estimated cost per page for your preferred printer model to balance quality with affordability.

Feeder type and paper handling

Cardstock requires a robust feeding mechanism to prevent misfeeds and curling. Look for a printer with a rear paper feeder or a manual feed slot, as these allow for smoother handling of thick media. An adjustable tray is essential for different paper sizes, especially if you print various card types. Printers with a high-capacity tray help streamline production for bulk printing. Ensure the printer can handle different finishes, such as glossy or textured cardstock, without smudging.

Borderless printing capability

For a professional touch, borderless printing eliminates unwanted margins and produces full-bleed designs. This feature is essential for greeting cards, invitations, and marketing materials. Most high-end inkjet printers offer borderless printing, but not all models support it for heavier paper. Check the printer’s specifications to ensure it can handle borderless prints on cardstock. A printer with automatic alignment and high-precision nozzles will work well if you frequently design edge-to-edge prints. 

Now you know what features to look for in a printer, but finding the best printer for your cardstock projects can be challenging. We've rounded up our top picks below to get professional-quality prints.

Best all-around inkjet printer for cardstock

Canon PIXMA TS9521C is an excellent choice for cardstock printing, offering a balance of quality, versatility, and affordability. Designed with crafters and small business owners in mind, this inkjet printer supports various paper sizes, including 12” x 12” cardstock, making it perfect for scrapbooking and creative projects.

Key Features

• Five-color individual ink system for vibrant prints

• Supports paper sizes up to 12”x12” for crafting projects

• Automatic document feeder (ADF) and duplex printing

• Print resolution up to 4800 x 1200 dpi for crisp details

Price

The Canon PIXMA TS9521C is currently available for purchase at an estimated retail price of $249.99.

Quality

• Sharp and vivid color reproduction

• Excellent for scrapbooking, greeting cards, and creative projects

Versatility

• Handles cardstock, envelopes, photo paper, and standard printing needs

• Great for both home and business use

Connectivity

• Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth options

• Compatible with AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, and Mopria Print Service

• Easy mobile printing from smartphones and tablets

Best Brother laser printer for cardstock projects

For those looking for a laser printer that excels in cardstock projects, the Brother HL-L3270CDW is a top contender. It delivers fast, high-quality prints with precision, making it a great choice for business owners and creative professionals who need consistent results.

Key Features

• Laser printing technology ensures crisp, smudge-free prints

• 2400 x 600 dpi resolution for sharp text and vibrant images

• Automatic duplex printing saves time and reduces paper waste

• Touchscreen display for easy navigation and control

Price

• Typically ranges between $412–$440

• Affordable for a color laser printer with cardstock support

Quality

• Delivers high-resolution, professional-grade prints

• Sharp text and accurate colors make it ideal for business and creative projects

Paper Handling

• 250-sheet paper tray for standard printing

• The manual feed slot supports thicker cardstock without jamming

• Can print on glossy paper, envelopes, and labels

Speed

• Prints up to 25 pages per minute (ppm) for fast job completion

• Quick warm-up time reduces waiting for first-page prints

• Reliable for high-volume cardstock printing without slowdowns

Best borderless printing options for edge-to-edge designs

If you need borderless printing for edge-to-edge cardstock designs, the Epson WorkForce WF-7210 is a fantastic choice. It’s one of the few wide-format inkjet printers that handle borderless prints up to 13”x19”, making it ideal for posters, invitations, and scrapbooking projects.

Borderless printing capabilities

• Prints edge-to-edge designs up to 13” x 19”

• Ideal for posters, marketing materials, and crafting projects

• Delivers vibrant, full-bleed prints without white margins

Quality

• PrecisionCore technology ensures sharp text and vivid colors

• 4800 x 2400 dpi resolution for professional-quality prints

• Produces smooth gradients and rich color accuracy

Versatility

• Supports multiple media types, including cardstock, glossy paper, and envelopes

• Dual paper trays (250 sheets each) + rear feed slot for specialty media

• Works well for both home and office printing needs

Connectivity options

• Offers Wi-Fi Direct, Ethernet, and NFC for wireless printing

• Compatible with AirPrint, Google Cloud Print, and Epson Connect

• Supports mobile printing from smartphones, tablets, and cloud services

Deciding between an inkjet and a laser printer for your projects depends on your specific needs and priorities. While both types of printers offer unique advantages, understanding their differences will help you make an informed decision. 

Here are some considerations to keep in mind: 

• Print quality: Inkjet printers like the Epson Artisan generally provide superior color range and detail, making them ideal for projects that require vibrant images and intricate designs.

• Paper compatibility: Inkjet printers often handle heavier and textured cardstock more effectively than laser printers, which can struggle with thick or uneven surfaces.

• Speed: Laser printers are known for their fast printing speeds, making them well-suited for high-volume printing tasks where efficiency is a top priority.

• Durability: Laser printers produce smudge-resistant prints due to the heat-based fusing process, which offers a more robust finish than inkjet prints.

• Cost efficiency: While inkjets may have lower upfront costs, laser printers tend to have a lower cost per print when factoring in toner and maintenance expenses.

In this article, we've explored the best printers for cardstock, highlighting top choices that ensure your creative projects shine with professional-quality prints. From the versatile Canon PIXMA TS9521C to the efficient Brother HL-L3270CDW and the borderless wonder, Epson WorkForce WF-7210, each printer caters to specific cardstock needs. 

For those seeking an alternative to investing in new equipment, Gelato's print on demand services offer a solution. 

With Gelato, you can experience high-quality printing without the hassle. Gelato offers custom cards, quick delivery, and printing only what you need, saving you money and resources.

Available in 34 countries, Gelato ensures sustainable printing solutions, connecting your projects to a network of professional printers. Empower your creativity, reduce costs, and enjoy hassle-free printing.

Bring your designs to life with the ease and convenience of a trusted partner. Sign up for Gelato today!