Construction paper and colored cardstock are two common types of paper used for arts and crafts, school projects, scrapbooking, invitations, and more. While they share some similarities, there are differences between construction paper and cardstock that impact the uses each is best suited for. Understanding the unique properties of each type of paper can help crafters, teachers, and party planners select the right paper for their projects.
Appearance
At first glance, construction paper and colored cardstock may look quite similar. They come in a wide range of bright, vibrant solid colors like red, blue, green, yellow, orange, purple, black, white, and more. Both types of paper are opaque, meaning you cannot see through them.
However, there are some visible differences between construction paper and cardstock:
Thickness
Construction paper is thinner and more flimsy, while cardstock is thicker and more rigid. Cardstock is around 67-200 lb (grams per square meter) while construction paper is typically 40-80 lb. The increased thickness makes colored cardstock feel more substantial.
Texture
Construction paper has a coarse, sugar paper-like texture. Cardstock has a smoother, more refined texture.
Stiffness
Because it is thinner, construction paper is easy to bend and flex. Cardstock holds its shape better and resists creasing and wrinkling.
Opacity
While both papers are opaque, the thicker cardstock often has a more complete opacity while still thin construction paper may show some light through.
Strength and Durability
The thickness and rigidity of cardstock make it much stronger and more durable than standard construction paper.
Construction paper, being thinner and weaker, is prone to ripping, tearing, crumpling, and creasing with rough handling. The coarse texture can also show scuffs and scratches more easily.
Cardstock is tear-resistant and maintains its stiffness even with frequent handling. The smooth texture resists scuffing and scratching. Cardstock can withstand folding, erasing, tracing, inking, painting, and more without damage. That makes it ideal for arts and crafts.
For delicate school assignments or temporary decorations, construction paper may suffice. For keepsake crafts, homemade greeting cards, or projects undergoing a lot of wear and tear, cardstock is the better choice.
Use Cases
The unique properties of construction paper and cardstock make them suited for different uses.
Construction Paper Uses
Construction paper is well-suited for:
– Temporary school projects – Construction paper is affordable and readily available for classroom use. The range of bright colors aids learning and creativity. Construction paper is acceptable for assignments that will be disposed of after grading or display for a short time.
– Simple crafts – For crafts made by small children or as a low-cost option, construction paper allows for basic cutting, tearing, folding, and gluing.
– Prototyping – Thinner construction paper is easy to draw and test concepts on before creating a more polished version with cardstock.
– Decorations – Construction paper can be used to make banners and other temporary decorative elements. It may not withstand extended display or outdoor use.
Cardstock Uses
Cardstock is the better choice when you need paper that is:
– Durable – Cardstock holds up to repeated handling and friction that would damage construction paper. Crafts, cards, invitations, books, and displays made from cardstock will remain in good condition.
– Versatile – From basic crafting to advanced techniques like die cutting, embossing, stamping, and pop-up elements, cardstock can handle it all.
– High-quality – Important keepsakes, gifts, and projects gain a polished, professional look thanks to the texture and opacity of cardstock.
– Photogenic – Cardstock provides an excellent printing surface for newsletters, flyers, programs, menus, and other items that will be photographed or digitally shared.
– Impressive – For vital projects like resumes, presentations, event signage, and invitations, cardstock makes a superior impression over standard construction paper.
Here are some specific examples of cardstock uses:
– Greeting cards
– Wedding invitations
– Scrapbook pages
– Paper flowers
– Origami
– Tags, boxes, bags, and gift wrap
– Party decorations
– School reports, science fair displays
– Menus, event programs
– Business cards, brochures, flyers
– Photography backdrops
– Die cut shapes and paper piecing
– 3D paper crafts like pop-up books or paper sculpture
Key Differences
This table summarizes the main differences between construction paper and cardstock:
| Property | Construction Paper | Cardstock |
|---|---|---|
| Thickness | 40-80 lb | 67-200 lb |
| Texture | Coarse | Smooth |
| Stiffness | Flexible, prone to creasing | Holds shape well |
| Tear resistance | Low | High |
| Best for | Temporary use, simple projects | Durable projects, high-quality printing |
Can Cardstock Be Used Like Construction Paper?
While cardstock would be overkill for a lot of construction paper uses due to the higher cost, you can use cardstock anywhere construction paper would be used. The increased sturdiness of cardstock makes it more versatile than construction paper.
If you need affordable paper for a classroom activity, construction paper is the more economical choice. But for important projects, opting for cardstock will provide durability and style.
Can You Make Cardstock from Construction Paper?
It is possible to make your own cardstock by gluing together multiple sheets of construction paper. This DIY cardstock will be thicker and more rigid than a single sheet of construction paper.
Follow these steps:
1. Select at least 3 sheets of construction paper in the same color. More sheets will result in thicker cardstock.
2. Use spray adhesive or double-sided scrapbooking tape to bind the sheets together. Apply adhesive evenly across the entire backside of each sheet.
3. Smooth out any air bubbles between the layers. Trim off uneven edges on the sides to make a neat cardstock sheet.
4. Allow time for the adhesive to fully dry before using your construction paper cardstock.
The stiffness and opacity may not be quite as strong as commercially manufactured cardstock. But in a pinch, laminating construction paper creates a reasonable substitute and allows using up leftover paper.
Can You Use Cardstock in Place of Construction Paper?
Cardstock can readily be used as a replacement for construction paper any time you need paper that is extra durable. The thicker, stiffer cardstock will withstand handling better than flimsy construction paper.
Cut cardstock to the needed size or have students trim sheets to fit project needs. The smooth texture accepts most art media well, from crayons and markers to paint and glue.
One downside is that cardstock costs more per sheet than mass-produced construction paper. Buying cardstock in bulk can help lower the cost. Using cardstock double-sided or cutting shapes from partial sheets also conserves your supply.
For major school art projects spanning multiple classes, the higher quality finished product from cardstock may justify the extra cost over ordinary construction paper. Having some cardstock on hand gives a professional upgrade for important assignments.
What Is Better for Origami: Construction Paper vs Cardstock?
Origami depends on the paper being able to hold creases and folds without cracking. This makes cardstock the clear winner over lightweight construction paper for most origami work.
Cardstock is available in large sheets ideal for origami. The stiffness allows sharp precise folds. The smooth texture prevents tearing from the folding motions.
Construction paper is prone to creasing and tearing under repeated folds. Light pressure can dent construction paper. A major project would require gluing together multiple sheets of construction paper to achieve necessary durability.
If working with children, very simple origami models may be achievable with standard construction paper. But for anything more complex, opt for high-quality origami paper or cardstock.
What Is Better for Paper Mache: Construction Paper vs Cardstock?
Paper mache involves soaking paper in adhesive, placing it on an armature, and layering additional strips to build up a 3D form. The paper needs to withstand immersion in glue or paste without falling apart. Here cardstock has a clear edge over construction paper.
Thin construction paper tends to disintegrate rapidly when soaked. The coarse texture also shows distortions from the paste. As layers build up, seams between strips become visible on the surface.
Thick, strong cardstock can be immersed in glue or paste without weakness or warping. The layers meld together smoothly for a seamless finish. The final paper mache form has durability and shape retention.
Recycled cardstock sheets, file folders, newspapers, and masking tape sheets serve as other excellent bases for sturdy paper mache. But standard construction paper should be avoided.
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What Is Better for Cutting Shapes: Construction Paper vs Cardstock?
Die cutting machines, handheld punches, and cutting by hand all benefit from cardstock’s advantages over construction paper.
Construction paper dulls cutting blades rapidly. The loose fibers around cut edges create fuzziness. Intricate shapes risk tearing mid-cut.
Cardstock provides crisp, precise cuts every time. The smooth texture prevents fuzzing on cut sides. Sturdy cardstock withstands pressure, allowing for very detailed cuts. Any medium like pens, paint, or photo blocks adhere cleanly to the cut sides.
When cutting paper shapes for banners, artwork, invitations, paper dolls, quilting, decoupage, and more, cardstock is the clear winner.
Conclusion
Construction paper and cardstock both have their uses in crafting, schools, and printable projects. Often it comes down to selecting the right paper for your specific needs in terms of budget, durability, and quality.
Construction paper serves fine for basic, temporary uses. Opt for cardstock when you require longevity and sharp looks. While you can substitute cardstock for construction paper with excellent results, sometimes a project truly benefits from picking the proper paper right from the start.
Understanding the strengths of construction paper versus cardstock allows crafters to make an informed decision. Choose construction when you want affordable, colorful paper. Pick cardstock when you need paper that will last.
Summary
– Construction paper is thinner, weaker, and cheaper than cardstock. It works for simple projects.
– Cardstock is thicker, stiffer, smoother, and more durable than construction paper. It excels for high-quality, lasting projects.
– Cardstock can readily be used as a construction paper substitute. Construction paper is not strong enough for many cardstock uses.
– For origami, paper mache, detailed cuts, and other handcrafts, cardstock will perform markedly better than standard construction paper.
With the right paper selection, you can ensure your arts, crafts, school projects, and other creations will have both beauty and durability.
