Paper is the one thing every scrapbooker buys repeatedly forever. Cardstock, patterned paper, vellum, foil – the average scrapbooker spends more on paper over the course of the hobby than on machines, dies, and embellishments combined. So getting paper right matters more than getting any other supply right.
Here’s the no-fluff version. The brands worth buying, the weights that actually matter, the bulk deals that save real money, and the tricks for not ending up with a closet full of paper you’ll never use.
The 4 Types of Scrapbook Paper (and When to Use Each)
Most layouts use 2-3 different paper types. Knowing which is which keeps you from buying duplicates and helps you build a mix that actually works together.
- Cardstock – solid colors, heavy weight (80-100 lb). Used for layout bases, photo mats, die cuts, and titles. The structural workhorse.
- Patterned paper – printed designs (florals, geometrics, vintage, modern), medium weight (65-80 lb). Used for visual interest, layered backgrounds, and mat layers under photos.
- Specialty paper – vellum, glitter, foil, kraft, embossed. Used for accents and statement pieces. One sheet goes a long way.
- Mixed media paper – heavy weight (100-140 lb), texture varies. Used when you want to paint, ink-blend, or stamp directly on a layout. Optional unless you do mixed-media scrapbooking.
Best Cardstock for Scrapbooking
Cardstock is the foundation of every layout. It needs to be heavy enough to hold weight and embellishments, smooth enough to print and stamp on, and colorfast enough not to fade in 10 years.
Bazzill Basics Cardstock (Premium Pick)
Bazzill has been the gold standard for solid cardstock for over 20 years. The 80 lb weight is consistent, colors are saturated, and the texture options (smooth, canvas, kraft) cover every layout style. Slightly more expensive than Recollections but worth it for archival projects.
Recommended: Bazzill 12×12 Cardstock Variety Packs ($25-35 for 25 sheets). For a budget alternative, American Crafts smooth cardstock ($18-25 for 25 sheets) is nearly as good.
Recollections Cardstock (Budget Workhorse)
Sold at Michaels, Recollections is the most popular budget cardstock for one reason: with a Michaels coupon, it costs roughly $0.20 per sheet. The colors are good, it’s acid-free, and the 65-80 lb weight is sufficient for most layouts. Surface texture varies a bit pack-to-pack but the inconsistency is minor.
Recommended: Buy at Michaels with a 40% off coupon. Available online via Amazon resellers if Michaels isn’t local.
Hip Kit Club Coordinated Cardstock
The cardstock that ships in our monthly kits is curated to match each kit’s design papers. If you’ve ever been frustrated trying to find solid cardstock that matches a patterned paper pad, monthly kits solve that exact problem – the cardstock and patterned paper come pre-coordinated. See our monthly scrapbook kits.
Bulk Cardstock Multipacks (Best Value)
For high-volume scrapbookers, multi-pack bundles offer the best dollar-per-sheet value. A 100-sheet variety pack covers 30+ layouts and costs about the same as buying individual packs at Michaels.
Recommended: 100-sheet 12×12 cardstock variety packs ($28-40). 8.5×11 bulk cardstock for cards ($30-50 for 250 sheets) is the corresponding card-making bulk option.
Best Patterned Paper Packs
Patterned paper is where layouts get their personality. Buying it in coordinated pads (rather than individual sheets) is almost always the smart move – the designer has done the work of making patterns play together.
Pebbles, Pinkfresh, and Vicki Boutin (Premium Designers)
The “designer paper” tier. Heavyweight pads ($15-30 each), distinctive collections, and patterns that age well. These are the brands you reach for when a layout needs to look intentional.
Recommended: Pebbles 12×12 Paper Pads ($18-25). Pinkfresh Studio Paper Collections ($20-30). Vicki Boutin Paper Pads ($18-28).
Carta Bella and Echo Park (Mid-Tier Workhorse)
Strong all-purpose patterned paper at a reasonable price. The themes (heritage, baby, vintage, holidays) cover the topics most scrapbookers actually need. Less trend-driven than the premium designer brands; more consistent quality than the budget tier.
Recommended: Carta Bella 12×12 Paper Pads ($12-18). Echo Park Paper Pads ($12-18).
DCWV Paper Stacks (Budget Bulk)
DCWV stacks (160-180 sheets per pad for $25-35) are the highest sheet-count value in scrapbooking. Quality is hit-or-miss – some collections look dated, others are timeless – but the price-per-sheet beats every other option. Best for new scrapbookers building a starter stash.
Recommended: DCWV 12×12 Paper Stacks ($25-40 for 180 sheets).
Specialty Papers Worth Stocking
Specialty papers add accent moments to layouts. You don’t need a lot – one of each in a few colors covers most needs. Here are the four worth keeping in your stash.
Vellum
Translucent paper used as overlay layers, soft accents, and titles. Vellum is the easiest way to add a sophisticated look to a layout. Buy 12×12 sheets in white, kraft, and one accent color.
Recommended: Vellum Paper 12×12 Multipack ($12-18 for 25 sheets).
Glitter and Foil Cardstock
One sheet of glitter or foil cardstock makes a 12×12 layout pop. The 65-80 lb weight is fine for accent pieces; you wouldn’t use it as a base. Avoid loose-glitter paper (it sheds); buy embedded-glitter cardstock instead.
Recommended: Glitter Cardstock 12×12 ($12-18 for 10 sheets). Foil cardstock ($15-25).
Kraft Cardstock
Kraft is the warm-brown paper that screams “vintage scrapbooking.” It pairs with almost every other color, hides imperfections in stamping and inking, and works for both layouts and mini-album covers. Buy a small dedicated pack.
Recommended: Kraft Cardstock 12×12 ($10-15 for 25 sheets).
Embossed Cardstock
Pre-embossed cardstock skips the embossing-folder step. Buy in cream, white, and kraft for instant texture without the die cutter. Great for cards and layout backgrounds.
Recommended: Embossed Cardstock ($14-20 for 12 sheets).
Paper Weight Explained (and Why It Matters)
Paper weight is measured in pounds (lb) or GSM (grams per square meter). The numbers on packaging tell you what the paper can handle.
| Weight | GSM | Common Use | Scrapbook Fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20-24 lb | 75-90 gsm | Printer/copy paper | Avoid – too thin for layouts |
| 32-40 lb | 120-150 gsm | Premium printer, light brochures | OK for vellum-style overlays only |
| 65-80 lb | 175-216 gsm | Patterned paper, light cardstock | Good for patterned paper layers, cards |
| 80-100 lb | 216-270 gsm | Standard cardstock | Best – layout bases, mats, dies |
| 100-140 lb | 270-380 gsm | Mixed media, heavy cardstock | Best for paint, ink, and wet techniques |
The short version: cardstock should be 80-100 lb. Patterned paper 65-80 lb. Anything below 65 lb is too thin for traditional layouts.
Acid-Free vs Non-Acid-Free: What Actually Matters
If you care about your photos surviving 50+ years, acid-free matters. Non-acid-free paper degrades over decades, releasing chemicals that yellow and damage adjacent photos. The fix is simple: only buy paper labeled “acid-free” and “lignin-free.”
Almost every scrapbook-marketed paper sold today is acid-free by default. The brands listed above (Bazzill, American Crafts, Pebbles, Pinkfresh, Carta Bella, Echo Park, Recollections, DCWV, Vicki Boutin) all sell acid-free paper. The risk is buying random office paper or non-craft-marketed paper that doesn’t carry the certification.
Look for these labels on the packaging:
- “Acid-free”
- “Lignin-free”
- “Photo-safe”
- “Archival quality”
Where to Buy Scrapbook Paper
The right retailer depends on what you’re buying and how much.
- Amazon – best for bulk packs, multi-color cardstock variety packs, and out-of-print collections from Etsy resellers.
- Michaels – best for individual patterned paper pads (use 40% off coupons), Recollections cardstock, and last-minute single sheets.
- Hobby Lobby – rotating 50% off paper sales make designer pads (Vicki Boutin, Pebbles) the cheapest of any retailer that week.
- Specialty scrapbook retailers – best for current-season designer collections (Pinkfresh, Cocoa Vanilla, Crate Paper) before craft chains stock them.
- Hip Kit Club monthly kits – best for coordinated cardstock + patterned paper that’s already designed to play together. See monthly kits.
- Etsy destash sellers – best for retired collections at 30-50% off retail.
Common Paper-Buying Mistakes
The mistakes that turn into closets full of unused paper. Avoid these and your stash stays manageable.
- Buying 5+ pads at once. Your taste evolves faster than you’ll use the paper. Buy 1-2 pads, use them, then decide what to add next.
- Buying a paper because it’s on sale. Sale paper that doesn’t match your style is just storage. Buy paper you’d buy at full price.
- Stockpiling holiday-themed paper a year in advance. Holiday designs trend hard. The Halloween pad you bought in January looks dated by October.
- Ignoring solids in favor of patterns. Most layouts need 2-3 solid cardstock sheets and 1-2 patterned. Patterned paper is the splash; cardstock is the structure. Don’t undersize the cardstock.
- Buying 8.5×11 when you scrapbook 12×12. Convert nothing. Buy the size that matches your album and album-protector format.
- Paying full price at Michaels without a coupon. Michaels coupons (40% off, sign up for emails) save 30-50% on every paper purchase. Always wait for the coupon.
- Buying a 200-sheet “bargain pack” without checking the colors. Mystery bargain packs often have 50% colors you’ll never use. Look for variety packs that show all colors before buying.
How to Build Your Paper Stash on a Budget
The smart-buyer approach to building a paper collection:
- Start with one neutral cardstock pack. Black, white, kraft, and 6 muted colors. Use these on every layout.
- Add one patterned paper pad in a color story you love. Florals, neutrals, modern geometrics – pick one. Use the entire pad before buying another.
- Wait until you’ve used it. Genuinely. Most scrapbookers add to their stash 4x faster than they consume it. The result is a closet full of paper that no longer matches their taste.
- Replace specifics, not whole pads. Run out of black cardstock? Buy more black cardstock, not a new variety pack. Targeted refills beat blanket pad purchases.
- Watch for clearance and destash. Etsy sellers and Facebook groups regularly destash collections at 50-60% off. Sign up for “destash” alerts.
Specialty Supply Guides
Building out your full crafting setup? Each guide covers one paper craft’s complete supply list:
- Scrapbook Supplies: The Complete Guide – The full crafting supply pillar covering paper, adhesive, embellishments, tools, and more.
- Scrapbook Supplies for Beginners – Starter bundles for first-time scrapbookers – $50, $100, and $200 builds.
- Scrapbook Tools – Paper trimmer, die cutters, and the tool tier hierarchy.
- Card Making Supplies – What you need to make handmade greeting cards.
- Art Journal Supplies – Mixed media essentials for art journaling.
- Junk Journal Supplies – Found-paper and ephemera for the maximalist mixed-media junk journal craft.
Frequently Asked Questions
What weight of cardstock is best for scrapbook layouts?
80-100 lb cardstock (also called “cover weight” or “cardstock weight”) is the standard for scrapbook layouts. It is sturdy enough to handle adhesive, layering, and embellishments without buckling, but still cuts cleanly with a paper trimmer. Avoid anything labeled “text weight” (60 lb or below) – it is closer to printer paper and feels flimsy in a layout.
Is acid-free paper required for scrapbooking?
Yes if you are preserving photos for 50+ years. Acid in paper degrades photographs over time, causing yellowing and fading. Look for “acid-free” and “lignin-free” labeling on the packaging. Almost all scrapbook-marketed paper from Bazzill, American Crafts, Recollections, Pebbles, and Hip Kit Club is acid-free by default. Random craft store paper or office paper might not be – check the label.
How much patterned paper do I need to start?
One 12×12 patterned paper pad (24-30 sheets) is enough for 6-10 layouts and gives you coordinated colors out of the gate. Add a second pad in a complementary color story if you want more variety. Avoid stockpiling 5+ pads at once – you will outgrow your taste before you use them. Two pads at a time is the sweet spot.
What is the difference between cardstock and patterned paper?
Cardstock is solid-colored, heavier weight (80-100 lb) paper used for bases, mats, and die cutting. Patterned paper is printed with designs (florals, geometrics, textures) and is usually slightly lighter weight (65-80 lb). You will use both on almost every layout – cardstock provides structure, patterned paper provides visual interest. A typical layout uses 1-2 cardstock pieces and 2-4 patterned paper pieces.
Is Recollections cardstock from Michaels good for scrapbooking?
Yes, with caveats. Recollections cardstock is acid-free, lignin-free, and 65-80 lb (depending on line). The colors are good and the price is excellent (often 5 for $5 with Michaels coupons). The downside: thinner than premium brands like Bazzill, and the surface texture varies pack to pack. For everyday scrapbooking it is more than sufficient. For heritage albums you want to last a century, splurge on Bazzill or American Crafts cardstock.
Where can I buy bulk scrapbook paper at a discount?
Amazon multi-pack cardstock bundles (look for 100-sheet variety packs in the $25-40 range) offer the best dollar-per-sheet value. Michaels with a 40% off coupon is the best in-store deal on patterned paper pads. Tuesday Morning and discount craft retailers occasionally have legacy collection paper at 50-70% off. Etsy sellers offer destash deals on retired collections at substantial discounts.
How long does scrapbook paper last in storage?
Indefinitely if stored properly: flat (not curled), in a low-humidity area (not a basement that floods), out of direct sunlight, and ideally in archival storage. Cardstock and patterned paper from acid-free brands will look the same in 10 years as the day you bought it. Light damage and humidity damage are the two main failure modes – guard against both and your paper stash effectively never expires.
Should I buy 12×12 or 8.5×11 cardstock?
12×12 is the scrapbook industry standard. Page protectors, albums, paper pads, dies, and tools are all built around it. Stick with 12×12 unless you are doing pocket scrapbooking (which uses 6×8 or 8.5×11), card making (which uses 8.5×11), or travelers notebook journaling (which uses A5 or A6). Buy 12×12 cardstock as your default and only branch out when a specific format calls for it.
Where to Go Next
You have a paper-buying plan. Now the next steps:
- How to Scrapbook – The complete tutorial for making your first layout with the paper you just bought.
- 50+ Scrapbook Page Ideas – Layout inspiration that uses the paper types covered above.
- 75+ Scrapbook Ideas – Themes and techniques to apply across your collection.
- Best Scrapbook Kits – Compare monthly subscription clubs that ship coordinated paper.
- Hip Kit Club Monthly Kits – Curated monthly kits with coordinated cardstock and patterned paper that play together.