Cardstock is a heavy, thick paper that is most commonly used for things like greeting cards, invitations, scrapbooking, and paper crafts. While plain white cardstock is readily available, colored cardstock can add a fun pop of color or help coordinate your paper craft project. But what are the best tools to use when coloring cardstock yourself? There are several good options for coloring cardstock depending on the specific project needs.
Markers
Markers are a popular choice for coloring cardstock thanks to their versatility, ease of use, and vivid results. Here are some of the best types of markers to use:
Permanent markers
Permanent markers contain quick-drying inks that securely bond to paper fibers. This makes them ideal for coloring cardstock when you need the color to remain bold and unfading. Sharpie permanent markers are a top brand for their intense color payoff. They come in both fine and ultra fine tip sizes for coloring small details or larger areas. Sharpie markers are acid-free and xylene-free, meaning they won’t damage paper over time.
Alcohol markers
Alcohol-based markers use a fast-drying, alcohol-based ink that produces bright, solid colors. Popular brands like Copic, Prismacolor, and Ohuhu alcohol markers have brush tips that can create smooth color laydown. The ink also blends well for gradient techniques. Alcohol markers enable both bold blocks of color as well as more subtle shading.
Water-based markers
Water-based markers use water-soluble inks. They are a good option if you need to color cardstock that will come into contact with water. Brands like Tombow dual brush pens have flexible brush nibs that create bold lines as well as thin detailing. The colors can also be blended with a wet paintbrush.
Acrylic paint
Acrylic craft paint provides rich, consistent color when painting cardstock. Here are some tips for using acrylic paint on cardstock:
- Choose heavier weight cardstock (at least 120 lbs) so the paper doesn’t warp too much when wet
- Use paint formulated for paper projects rather than canvas painting. It will have better adhesion.
- Apply paint in thin layers, allowing it to dry completely between coats to prevent wrinkling.
- Use a sponge brush, small paintbrush, or cotton swabs for best control.
- Finish with a sealant like decoupage medium to prevent smudging.
Colored pencils
Colored pencils allow for both broad areas of color as well as more detailed coloring techniques. Use these tips when coloring cardstock with colored pencils:
- Choose wax-based pencils over oil-based. Wax pencils bond better to the cardstock surface.
- Start with lighter colors first, then layer darker colors on top for more depth.
- Apply pressure with the pencil to produce rich, saturated color.
- Blend with colorless blender pencils to smooth out strokes.
- Spray with a fixative when done to prevent wax from smudging.
Gel pens
Gel pens contain gel ink that produces vibrant colors. They work well for adding pops of color to cardstock. Some tips for using gel pens:
- Look for acid-free, archival gel pens for the safest option.
- Shake the pens first to mix up the gel ink before use.
- Lay down the color in layers, allowing each layer to dry first.
- Don’t blend gel pen strokes as this can cause smearing.
- Outline gel pen coloring with permanent markers to help seal it.
Chalk
Sidewalk chalk or chalk pastels provide a fun way to temporarily color cardstock. The color dust adheres lightly to the textured cardstock surface. Use these tips when coloring with chalk on cardstock:
- Look for dustless or low-dust chalk pastels to reduce mess.
- Start with a base color then layer darker shades on top.
- Blend with cotton swabs, a dry paintbrush, or tortillons.
- Spritz with water to intensify and blend colors.
- Seal with hairspray or fixative spray when finished.
Rubbing alcohol inks
Alcohol inks produce vibrant, transparent color effects. They work great on non-porous surfaces like glossy cardstock. Here are some tips for using them:
- Use heavy weight, glossy cardstock.
- Apply a few drops of ink directly on the cardstock surface.
- Tilt the paper to move the ink around.
- Use a brush, cotton swab, or toothpick to manipulate the ink.
- Layer colors for depth.
- Spritz with rubbing alcohol to push the ink around more.
- Let dry fully before handling.
Watercolors
When used properly, watercolors can produce soft washes of color on cardstock. Here are some tips:
- Use extra heavy weight cardstock, at least 150 lbs.
- Stretch the cardstock by lightly wetting both sides before painting.
- Allow the paint to fully dry between layers to reduce warping.
- Work quickly and lightly, lifting the brush often to avoid over-saturating.
- Use a hairdryer on low heat to speed up drying if needed.
Spray inks
Airbrush-style spray inks allow you to apply color quickly across large areas. Use these tips when spraying cardstock:
- Work in a well-ventilated area and wear a respirator.
- Insert cardstock into a cardboard folder to shield the back from overspray.
- Start spraying off the paper, moving side to side over the surface.
- Work lightly in layers, allowing ink to dry between passes.
- Avoid holding the sprayer too close or oversaturating the cardstock.
Dye-based inks
Dye-based inks, found in markers, gel pens, and ink pads, produce vivid color on cardstock. However, they can bleed and spread more than pigment inks. Use these tips when applying dye inks:
- Use acid-free and archival quality inks.
- Color small areas at a time, allowing ink to soak in and dry.
- Avoid over-saturating the cardstock surface.
- Outline dye ink sections with permanent marker to help seal edges.
- Consider spraying finished pieces with a sealant.
Pigment inks
Pigment inks contain tiny particles of actual color pigment suspended in a carrier. They sit on the surface rather than soaking in. Follow these guidelines:
- Use pigment ink pads designed for paper crafting.
- Start with a dye-based ink pad then layer pigment ink on top.
- Wipe pads frequently to prevent color buildup.
- Heat set pigment ink using a hair dryer if needed.
- Consider adding a fixative spray when finished.
Using multiple coloring tools
For more creative, customized results you can combine various coloring tools. Here are some ideas:
- Use markers for broad areas of color, then gel pens for details.
- Start with colored pencils, then shade with chalk pastels.
- Apply spray inks as a wash, then use acrylic paint for accents.
- Use pigment ink pads for a base layer, then dye inks for pops of color.
- Create ombre effects by blending marker, pencil, or chalk colors.
Experiment on scrap cardstock to see which combinations work best for your project needs.
Choosing the right cardstock
The texture, weight, and finish of the cardstock will impact the coloring results. Here are some options:
| Cardstock Type | Description | Good For |
|---|---|---|
| Smooth, glossy | Slick surface with sheen | Gel pens, alcohol inks, spray inks |
| Textured | Pronounced grainy texture | Chalk, pencils, dye inks |
| Matte | Flat, non-shiny surface | Pigment inks, paint, markers |
| Heavyweight | Thicker than normal cardstock | Prevents warping if using much liquid |
Test out different types of cardstock to see what takes your selected coloring media the best. This will lead to more beautiful, vivid results.
Preparing cardstock for coloring
Proper preparation of the cardstock before coloring will allow for better ink and paint adhesion. Here are some tips:
- Wipe cardstock with a damp cloth to remove surface dust.
- Gently sand the surface with fine sandpaper to help coloring grip better.
- Paint a base gesso layer if using acrylics to prevent absorption.
- Stretch watercolor paper by lightly wetting before painting.
- Apply a light coat of primer spray if using spray inks.
Take steps to prevent warping the cardstock when using lots of liquid media like paint and inks. Allowing paint and ink layers to fully dry between applications will help maintain a flat surface. Placing cardstock on a non-stick work surface or lightly taping the edges down can also prevent warping.
Sealing and protecting colored cardstock
Adding a sealant as a final step protects colored cardstock from damage. Here are some good options:
- Decoupage or collage medium – Provides a clear, glossy top coat to seal.
- Matte or gloss fixative spray – Secures chalk, pencil, and pastel dust.
- Clear acrylic sealer – Works best for sealing paint and ink.
- Polyurethane – Water-based poly works well for a durable seal.
- UV resin – Glossy resin provides the most durable seal.
Apply sealer in thin, even coats allowing full drying between layers. This helps prevent blotchiness, runs, or a sticky surface. Sealing is an important final step that will help colored cardstock maintain its beauty over time.
Conclusion
Coloring cardstock opens up many creative possibilities for paper craft, scrapbook, and greeting card projects. Markers, paint, colored pencils, chalk, and inks can all be used to add exciting pops of color. Combining several coloring methods together produces unique effects. Pay attention to choosing the right cardstock texture and weight for the selected coloring material. Always properly prepare the cardstock first by wiping it down and perhaps adding a base layer. Finally, seal your finished pieces with a top coat for protection. With the right colors and techniques, you can create hand-colored cardstock perfect for any project.