Best Paper for Printable Party Decorations

The best paper for printable party decorations depends on what you’re making. A paper that works beautifully for a chip bag may not be the best choice for a favor box or water bottle label.

When choosing paper for your party projects, think about what the finished decoration needs to do. Will it need to fold, stick, stand up, or hold its shape? The answer can help you narrow down the right type of paper before you even start printing.

For most printable party projects, you’ll find yourself choosing between glossy paper, glossy sticker paper, and cardstock. Matte paper can also be a great option for certain projects, especially when readability or writing space is important.

Choosing the right paper can make a noticeable difference in how your finished decorations look, how easy they are to assemble, and how well they hold up during your celebration. The good news is that once you understand what each type of paper is best suited for, choosing becomes much easier.

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What Is the Best Paper for Printable Party Decorations?

There isn’t one type of paper that works perfectly for every printable party project. The right choice depends on the shape, purpose, and finish you want for your finished decoration.

A simple way to choose is to ask yourself what the paper needs to do once it is printed.

Does It Need to Fold?

If you’re making something that needs to fold around a product or into a specific shape, you’ll want a paper that is easy to fold and trim without adding unnecessary bulk.

Glossy paper is a great starting point for projects such as:

• Chip bags
• Candy bar wrappers
• Treat wrappers
• Rice Krispie treat wrappers
• Mini cereal box wrappers
• Treat bag toppers

Glossy paper gives these projects a smooth finish that helps colors and designs stand out while still being flexible enough for wrapping and folding.

Does It Need to Stick?

For labels and stickers, the paper needs to do more than simply hold the printed design. It also needs an adhesive backing so you can easily apply the finished piece to your party supplies.

Glossy sticker paper is a good choice for projects such as:

• Water bottle labels
• Juice pouch labels
• Party stickers
• Favor bag labels
• Thank-you stickers
• Treat container labels

The adhesive backing makes these projects much easier to apply without needing to cut separate pieces of adhesive.

Does It Need to Hold Its Shape?

Some party decorations need more structure than a flexible sheet of paper can provide.

For projects that need to stand, fold into a box, or maintain a specific shape, cardstock is usually a better option.

Cardstock works well for:

• Favor boxes
• Popcorn boxes
• Cake toppers
• Cupcake toppers
• Signs
• Hand fans
• Invitations
• Gift tags
• Centerpieces

The added thickness gives these projects more stability and makes them easier to handle after printing.

Does It Need to Be Easy to Read or Write On?

Not every printable party project needs a glossy finish.

For invitations, party games, signs, tags, and other projects where you may want an easy-to-read surface or space to write, matte paper or cardstock may be a better choice.

The important thing is to think about how you’ll use the finished project—not just how the paper looks before you print.

The Quick Paper-Picking Guide

If you’re not sure where to start, use this simple guide:

This chart is a starting point, not a strict rule. Your template instructions, printer, paper compatibility, and how you plan to use the finished decoration can all affect which paper works best.

When in doubt, print one test sheet before printing your entire project. A quick test can help you check the colors, paper finish, size, and overall look before using more of your supplies.

Glossy Paper vs. Glossy Sticker Paper vs. Cardstock

Once you know what your project needs to do, choosing between paper types becomes much easier.

The three paper types you’ll use most often for printable party decorations are glossy paper, glossy sticker paper, and cardstock. Each one has a different purpose, so choosing the right one can save you from dealing with difficult folds, weak decorations, or labels that won’t stay where you put them.

Glossy Paper

Glossy paper is best for projects that need to be flexible enough to fold or wrap.

The smooth, coated surface gives printed designs a bright, polished appearance, making it especially popular for colorful party favors and food packaging.

Use glossy paper for projects such as:

• Chip bags
• Candy bar wrappers
• Treat wrappers
• Rice Krispie treat wrappers
• Popcorn bags
• Mini cereal box projects

For wrapping projects, the paper needs to have enough body to feel substantial without becoming so thick that it is difficult to fold. A lighter-weight glossy paper is generally better for projects that require multiple folds or a crimped edge.

If you’re making custom chip bags or candy wrappers, this is usually the paper type to reach for first.

Best for: Flexible projects, wrappers, and colorful party favors.

Glossy Sticker Paper

Glossy sticker paper is best when your printable needs to stick directly to another surface.

Instead of printing your design and then adding adhesive separately, sticker paper gives you an adhesive backing that you can peel and apply after cutting.

It’s especially useful for:

• Water bottle labels
• Juice pouch labels
• Party stickers
• Favor bag labels
• Thank-you stickers
• Treat container labels

This can make assembly much faster. Print your design, cut it out, peel the backing, and apply it to your item.

For drink labels, pay attention to whether the sticker paper is water-resistant or waterproof. These terms aren’t interchangeable. If your labels will come into contact with condensation or moisture, choose a paper designed for the conditions your finished project will encounter.

Best for: Labels, stickers, and projects that need an adhesive backing.

Cardstock

Cardstock is the better choice when your project needs structure and stability.

Because cardstock is thicker and more rigid than regular paper, it works well for decorations that need to stand up, hold a shape, or be handled frequently.

Use cardstock for projects such as:

• Favor boxes
• Popcorn boxes
• Cake toppers
• Cupcake toppers
• Favor tags
• Signs
• Hand fans
• Invitations
• Centerpieces
• Gift tags

Cardstock is also helpful when you’re creating pieces that need to feel more substantial, such as a cake topper or party sign.

Keep in mind that thicker isn’t always better. If a project requires several folds, heavy cardstock may be difficult to bend cleanly and can crack along the fold. For those projects, a lighter paper or a cardstock specifically suited to folding may be a better option.

Best for: Structured decorations, toppers, boxes, signs, and tags.

The Easiest Way to Remember

If you find yourself standing at your printer wondering which package to grab, remember:

Need to fold? → Glossy paper.

Need to stick? → Glossy sticker paper.

Need to stand or hold its shape? → Cardstock.

There are always exceptions, but this simple starting point works well for many printable party projects.

Does Paper Weight Matter? Understanding GSM

Yes, paper weight matters—especially when you’re making printable party decorations that need to fold, stand, or hold their shape.

You may notice paper described by a number such as GSM. GSM stands for grams per square meter and is a way of describing the weight and thickness of paper.

The important thing to remember is that higher GSM generally means a heavier, thicker sheet, while lower GSM paper tends to be lighter and more flexible.

You don’t necessarily need the heaviest paper for the best results. The right weight depends on what you’re making.

Lighter Paper for Flexible Projects

Projects that need to fold, wrap, or bend usually benefit from a lighter-weight paper.

For example, chip bags and candy bar wrappers need to fold around the item and be easy to assemble. Paper that’s too heavy can make those folds more difficult and may not give you the finished look you’re after.

Choose a lighter paper when your project needs to:

• Fold around an item
• Wrap around a package
• Bend easily
• Have multiple folds
• Be trimmed quickly and easily

This is one reason glossy paper is a popular choice for printable party wrappers.

Heavier Paper for Structured Projects

Projects that need to stand up or maintain their shape generally benefit from a heavier paper.

Cardstock is commonly used for structured party decorations because it provides more stability than lightweight paper.

Heavier paper can work well for:

• Favor boxes
• Popcorn boxes
• Cake toppers
• Cupcake toppers
• Party signs
• Hand fans
• Gift tags
• Centerpieces

The extra weight can make a finished decoration feel sturdier and more substantial.

Don’t Automatically Choose the Heaviest Paper

It can be tempting to think that heavier paper is always better, but that’s not necessarily the case.

If your project requires several folds, very thick cardstock can actually make assembly harder. It may be difficult to fold cleanly, especially around small or detailed areas.

Think about the finished project first, then choose a paper weight that supports what you need it to do.

Flexible project → lighter paper

Structured project → heavier paper

What About GSM Numbers?

GSM can be helpful when you’re comparing papers, but don’t feel like you have to choose a paper based on the number alone.

Different paper types are designed for different purposes, and the printer you’re using can also affect which papers work well for your projects.

Instead of asking, “What is the heaviest paper my printer can handle?”, start with:

“What does my project need the paper to do?”

That simple question will usually get you much closer to the right choice.

If you’re following a specific printable template, always check whether the template creator recommends a particular paper type or weight before purchasing supplies.

A Simple Paper Weight Rule

When you’re choosing paper for a new party project, use this as a starting point:

The goal isn’t to find the thickest paper possible. The goal is to find the paper that works with the way your finished project needs to function.

Glossy vs. Matte Paper: Which Finish Is Best?

Once you’ve chosen the right type and weight of paper, you may still have one more decision to make: glossy or matte?

The finish you choose can change the way your colors look, how the paper feels, and how easy the finished project is to read or handle.

For many colorful party decorations, glossy paper is a popular choice because it gives designs a smooth, polished appearance. Matte paper, however, can be a better option for projects where readability or writing space is more important.

When to Choose Glossy Paper

Glossy paper has a smooth, shiny surface that can make colorful designs look bright and polished.

It’s a great choice when you want your party decorations to have a more finished, photo-like appearance.

Glossy paper works especially well for:

• Chip bags
• Candy bar wrappers
• Treat wrappers
• Colorful party favors
• Water bottle labels
• Juice pouch labels
• Decorative packaging

The smooth surface can help detailed designs, patterns, and bright colors stand out.

If you’re creating custom party favors with colorful graphics, glossy paper can give the finished project that polished look you may be trying to achieve.

When to Choose Matte Paper

Matte paper has a smooth but non-shiny surface.

Because it doesn’t have the same reflective finish as glossy paper, it can be easier to read under bright lights or in photographs where glare may be a concern.

Matte paper can be a good choice for:

• Invitations
• Party games
• Signs
• Worksheets
• Activity sheets
• Menus
• Tags
• Projects that need to be written on

If you’re creating something where guests need to read instructions or write directly on the paper, a matte finish may be more practical.

Glossy vs. Matte at a Glance

Which One Should You Choose?

There isn’t a universal winner.

Choose the finish based on how you want the finished decoration to look and function.

A Simple Five-Step Paper Decision

If you’re still unsure, work through these questions in order:

1. What am I making?
2. Does it need to fold, stick, stand, or be written on?
3. What paper weight makes sense for that job?
4. Do I want a glossy or matte finish?
5. Is the paper compatible with my printer?

By the time you reach the fifth question, you’ve already eliminated many of the wrong options.

What Paper Works Best With Your Printer?

Choosing the right paper is only part of getting great results. You also need to make sure the paper you’re using is compatible with your printer.

Before purchasing a specialty paper, check whether it is designed for your printer type. Some papers are made specifically for inkjet printers, while others are compatible with both inkjet and laser printers.

For DIY party decorations, this is especially important when you’re using glossy or coated papers.

Inkjet Printers

Inkjet printers are a popular choice for printing colorful party decorations at home.

They can work well for projects such as:

• Chip bags
• Candy bar wrappers
• Water bottle labels
• Juice pouch labels
• Cake toppers
• Favor boxes
• Party signs
• Invitations

If you’re using a paper specifically designed for inkjet printing, follow the manufacturer’s recommended printer settings for the best results.

For example, Party & Confetti Paper offers specialty papers designed for different printable party projects, including glossy paper, glossy cardstock, and sticker paper.

Laser Printers

Laser printers use a different printing process than inkjet printers, so you shouldn’t assume that every specialty paper will work in both types of printers.

If you have a laser printer, check the packaging or product instructions before loading specialty paper into your printer.

This is particularly important with coated papers. Using paper that isn’t designed for your printer can lead to poor print quality or other printing problems.

Always Check Printer Compatibility

Before you buy a new paper, look for the printer compatibility information on the package or product listing.

Check for:

• Printer type: Inkjet, laser, or both
• Paper weight: Make sure your printer can handle the thickness
• Paper size: Confirm that it matches your printer settings
• Recommended feed: Some thicker papers may work better through a rear or manual feed
• Print side: Specialty papers often have a specific printable side

If you’re unsure, your printer’s manual or manufacturer’s specifications are the best place to check the maximum paper weight and recommended media types.

What If My Printer Has Trouble Feeding the Paper?

Paper thickness can affect how easily a sheet moves through your printer.

If you’re printing on heavier cardstock and notice that the printer is struggling to feed the paper, check whether your printer has a rear, manual, or specialty media feed.

Don’t force thick paper through a printer that isn’t designed to handle it. A paper that works beautifully in one printer may not feed the same way in another.

A Simple Compatibility Check

Before buying a large package of specialty paper, ask these five questions:

1. Is this paper compatible with my printer?
2. Can my printer handle this paper weight?
3. Am I loading the correct side of the paper?
4. Does my printer have a recommended setting for this type of paper?
5. Have I printed a test sheet first?

That last step is worth repeating. A test print lets you see how your particular printer handles the paper before you commit to printing an entire party’s worth of decorations.

The goal is to match the project, the paper, and the printer rather than choosing paper based on appearance alone.

Next, we’ll look at a question many DIY party creators have: Can you use regular printer paper for printable party decorations?

Can You Use Regular Printer Paper for Party Decorations?

Yes, you can use regular printer paper for some party projects, but it isn’t always the best choice.

Standard copy paper is lightweight and affordable, which makes it useful for simple decorations, templates, practice prints, and projects that don’t need a polished finish or much durability.

However, if you’re creating printable party favors or decorations that guests will see and handle, specialty paper can give you a better finished result.

When Regular Printer Paper Works

Regular printer paper can be a good choice when you’re making something simple or when you want to test your design before using your specialty paper.

It can work well for:

• Party games
• Activity sheets
• Coloring pages
• Practice prints
• Design tests
• Simple signs
• Temporary decorations
• Templates or cutting guides

It’s also a great way to make sure your design is sized correctly before using your good paper.

For example, if you’re creating a new chip bag design, you can print a test copy on regular paper first. Fold it around the item you’re using and make sure everything lines up before printing on your glossy paper.

When Specialty Paper Is a Better Choice

For finished party favors and decorations, the right specialty paper can improve both the appearance and function of your project.

You may want to choose specialty paper when your project needs:

A polished finish
Glossy paper can give colorful party favors and wrappers a smooth, professional-looking appearance.

More structure
Cardstock provides more stability for projects such as favor boxes, cake toppers, popcorn boxes, and signs.

An adhesive backing
Sticker paper makes it easier to create labels and stickers without adding adhesive separately.

Better durability
Projects that will be handled frequently can benefit from a paper specifically suited to the finished decoration.

What Happens If You Use Copy Paper for Everything?

You can certainly experiment with regular printer paper, but you may notice some limitations.

Copy paper is much lighter than cardstock and doesn’t have the same specialty finishes available on printable party papers. A wrapper may feel too flimsy, a box may not hold its shape, and colors may not have the same polished appearance you’re looking for.

That doesn’t mean regular printer paper is bad. It simply means it’s designed for a different purpose.

Think of it this way:

Practice or simple project → Regular printer paper

Colorful wrapper → Glossy paper

Label or sticker → Glossy sticker paper

Structured decoration → Cardstock

Choosing the right paper for the job can make your projects easier to assemble and help you get the finished look you’re after.

Use Regular Paper to Test Before You Print

One of the easiest ways to save paper and money is to use regular printer paper for your first test.

Before printing an entire batch:

1. Print one copy on regular paper.
2. Check the size and placement of your design.
3. Cut and fold the test piece if necessary.
4. Make sure it fits your item correctly.
5. Make any adjustments to your design.
6. Print the final version on your specialty paper.

This is especially helpful for projects with multiple folds or pieces that need to line up precisely.

A few minutes of testing can save you from wasting an entire package of specialty paper.

The best paper isn’t always the most expensive paper. It’s the paper that matches the job.

How to Choose Paper Without Wasting Money

With so many paper options available, it can be tempting to buy a different package for every party project. The good news is that you usually don’t need to.

The easiest way to avoid wasting money is to choose your paper based on the type of projects you make most often.

Before buying a new paper, take a moment to answer a few simple questions.

Start With Your Project

First, decide what you’re making.

Are you creating a wrapper, label, box, topper, sign, or something else?

Your project will usually tell you what type of paper you need.

Wrappers → Glossy paper

Labels → Glossy sticker paper

Boxes and structured decorations → Cardstock

Signs, games, and writing projects → Matte paper or cardstock

Starting with the project instead of the paper aisle can help you avoid buying supplies you don’t actually need.

Think About How the Finished Project Will Be Used

Next, consider what will happen to the decoration after you print it.

Will it be:

• Folded?
• Wrapped around something?
• Applied to a surface?
• Handled by guests?
• Standing upright?
• Used as a centerpiece?
• Written on?

A project that needs to be folded has different paper requirements than one that needs to stand upright.

This is why there isn’t one “best” paper for every printable party decoration.

Consider How Many Projects You Can Make With One Paper Type

If you’re just getting started with DIY party decorations, you may want to begin with a few versatile paper options rather than buying every type at once.

For example, if you regularly make custom party favors, a package of glossy paper may get much more use than a specialty paper intended for a project you only make occasionally.

The same applies to cardstock and sticker paper. Think about the types of projects you create most often and build your paper supply around those projects.

Don’t Buy Based on Appearance Alone

A paper may look beautiful in the package, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the right choice for your project.

Before buying, check:

• Printer compatibility
• Paper weight
• Finish
• Whether the paper is flexible or rigid
• Whether it has an adhesive backing
• Recommended uses
• Package size

A paper that looks great but is too thick for your printer or too rigid for your project isn’t going to save you money.

Buy a Small Amount and Test It First

If you’re trying a new type of paper, consider testing it before purchasing a large quantity.

Print one or two sheets and see how they perform with your specific printer and project.

Check the:

• Color
• Print quality
• Paper feeding
• Folding
• Cutting
• Assembly
• Overall finished appearance

Every printer and project can behave a little differently, so testing is one of the simplest ways to avoid wasting a full package of paper.

Build a Small Paper Collection

If you make printable party decorations regularly, you don’t need a huge paper collection.

A simple starting point might include:

Glossy paper for wrappers and flexible party favors.

Glossy sticker paper for labels and stickers.

Cardstock for boxes, toppers, signs, and structured decorations.

From there, you can add other paper types or finishes as your projects require them.

The goal isn’t to have every type of specialty paper on hand. It’s to have the right paper for the projects you actually make.

Once you’ve chosen your paper, there’s one final step that can save you from wasting supplies: testing the paper before printing your entire project.

The next section is the practical test-print workflow. It gives readers a simple way to make sure their paper, printer, and template work together before committing to a full batch.

How to Test Your Paper Before Printing the Whole Party

Before printing an entire set of party decorations, take a few minutes to test your paper and design.

This simple step can save you from wasting specialty paper, ink, and time—especially when you’re working with a new template or a paper you’ve never used before.

Print One Test Sheet First

Start by printing just one sheet.

If you’re testing a new design, you can use regular printer paper first to check the size and placement. Once everything looks right, print another test on your actual specialty paper.

This gives you a chance to catch problems before you print the entire project.

Check the Print Quality

Look closely at your test print and check:

• Are the colors bright and clear?
• Does the design look sharp?
• Are there any streaks or missing areas?
• Is the ink smearing?
• Does the paper look the way you expected?

If the colors look dull or the ink isn’t drying properly, you may need to check your printer settings or make sure you’re using paper designed for your printer.

Check the Size and Alignment

If your project needs to be folded, wrapped, or assembled, don’t stop at looking at the printed sheet.

Actually cut and assemble your test piece.

For example, if you’re making a chip bag, fold the test around the bag and check that the design lines up correctly.

For a water bottle label, wrap the label around the bottle to make sure the size works.

For a favor box, cut and fold the test before printing the remaining pieces.

This is where you’ll catch sizing or alignment issues that aren’t always obvious when you’re looking at the design on your computer screen.

Check How the Paper Handles

Your test print should also tell you whether the paper itself is a good match for the project.

Ask yourself:

• Is it easy to cut?
• Does it fold cleanly?
• Does it hold its shape?
• Is it too flimsy?
• Is it too thick?
• Does the printed surface scratch easily?
• Does the adhesive stick properly if you’re using sticker paper?

If the paper doesn’t behave the way you need it to, it’s better to discover that with one sheet than after printing 50.

Let the Ink Dry

Give your printed test enough time to dry before trimming or handling it.

This is especially important when working with glossy papers. Handling the printed surface too soon can result in smudging or fingerprints.

Once the print is dry, handle it the same way you will handle the finished project.

Make Adjustments Before Printing the Full Batch

If something doesn’t look right, stop and make the adjustment before printing everything.

You may need to:

• Change your printer settings
• Adjust the template size
• Change the paper
• Reposition your design
• Let the paper dry longer
• Try a different paper weight

Then print another test.

It may seem like an extra step, but testing is one of the easiest ways to make your DIY party projects more predictable.

Your Simple Test-Print Checklist

Before printing the entire party, make sure you can answer yes to these questions:

☐ The paper is compatible with my printer.

☐ The paper weight works for my project.

☐ The colors look good.

☐ The design is the correct size.

☐ The paper feeds properly through the printer.

☐ The ink dries without smearing.

☐ The project folds, cuts, or assembles correctly.

☐ I like the finished look.

Once your test sheet passes the checklist, you’re ready to print the rest of your decorations with much more confidence.

Free Test-Print Checklist

Want an easy way to keep track of your test print?

Download the Free Test-Print Checklist and keep it beside your printer.

Use it to check your paper, printer, design, and finished project before printing the rest of your party decorations.

Download the Free Test-Print Checklist →

Print one test. Check it. Make your adjustments. Then print the rest with confidence.

Which Party & Confetti Paper Is Right for Your Project?

Once you know what your project needs, choosing your paper becomes much easier.

Party & Confetti Paper was created with printable party projects in mind, so instead of trying to make one type of paper work for everything, you can choose the option that fits the project you’re creating.

Here’s a simple way to think about the different options:

Party & Confetti Glossy Paper

Choose Glossy Paper when you’re making flexible projects that need to fold or wrap.

It’s a great option for colorful printable party favors such as:

• Chip bags
• Candy bar wrappers
• Treat wrappers
• Rice Krispie treat wrappers
• Other flexible party favor projects

The glossy finish gives your designs a polished look while the paper remains flexible enough for projects that require folding.

Party & Confetti Glossy Sticker Paper

Choose Glossy Sticker Paper when your design needs to stick directly to another surface.

It’s especially helpful for:

• Water bottle labels
• Juice pouch labels
• Party stickers
• Favor bag labels
• Thank-you stickers
• Treat container labels

Instead of printing your design and adding adhesive separately, the sticker paper gives you an adhesive surface that can be applied after cutting.

This can make label projects much simpler to assemble.

Party & Confetti Cardstock

Choose Cardstock when your project needs more structure.

It’s a good choice for projects such as:

• Favor boxes
• Popcorn boxes
• Cake toppers
• Cupcake toppers
• Signs
• Hand fans
• Gift tags
• Invitations
• Centerpieces

The added structure makes cardstock a better fit for decorations that need to stand, hold their shape, or feel more substantial.

A Simple Way to Choose

If you’re standing at your craft table wondering which one to grab, start here:

You don’t need every type of paper for every project. Start with the projects you make most often and choose your supplies around those needs.

The right paper should make your project easier—not more complicated.

Match Your Paper to Your Template

Before printing, also check the instructions that come with your printable template.

Some templates may have specific recommendations for paper type or weight based on how the finished project is designed to fold, cut, or assemble.

For example, a chip bag template and a favor box template may both be printable, but they don’t have the same paper requirements.

When you combine the template instructions + project requirements + printer compatibility, you have a much better starting point for choosing your paper.

And remember to print a test before committing to the full batch.

Best Paper for Common Printable Party Projects

Sometimes the easiest way to choose paper is simply to start with the project you’re making.

Here’s a quick reference you can bookmark for your next party.

Use this table as a starting point, then check your template instructions and printer compatibility before printing.

Related Articles to Help You Print Better Party Decorations

Choosing the right paper is an important step, but it is only one part of creating printable party decorations.

Once you’ve selected your paper, these related resources can help you with the next step:

Printing Party Favors: Beginner’s Guide to Printing at Home

Best Paper for Chip Bags: Get Perfect Results Every Time

Best Sticker Paper for Water Bottle Labels (Inkjet Printing Guide)

Best Paper for Candy Bar Wrappers

How to Prevent Ink Smearing on Glossy Paper (8 Easy Fixes)

Matte vs. Glossy Paper for Party Favors

These supporting articles are part of the larger Hanging with the Kiddos Create Hub, which is designed to help you move from choosing your supplies to designing, printing, and assembling your party projects with confidence.

Ready to Start Your Next Printable Party Project?

Choosing the right paper doesn’t have to be complicated.

Start with the project.

Then ask what the finished decoration needs to do.

Fold? Choose a flexible paper.

Stick? Choose sticker paper.

Stand or hold its shape? Choose cardstock.

Need to write on it? Consider matte paper.

From there, check the paper weight, finish, printer compatibility, and template instructions.

Most importantly, print one test before printing the entire party.

That one step can help you catch problems with color, sizing, paper feeding, folding, and assembly before you’ve used a full package of specialty paper.

If you’re ready to create your next project, explore the printable party templates and choose the paper that matches the job.

And if you want a simple paper collection for DIY party projects, start with the three basics:

Glossy Paper + Glossy Sticker Paper + Cardstock.

You can build from there as your projects grow.

The goal isn’t to find the most expensive paper or the heaviest paper.

It’s to find the right paper for the project you’re creating.

Save This Guide for Your Next Party

Planning another celebration?

Save this guide so you can quickly come back and check which paper you need before printing your next set of party decorations.

And don’t forget to download the Free Test-Print Checklist so you can test your project before printing the entire batch.

Happy creating!