Quick Answer
160 GSM matte cardstock is the best choice for most papercraft models. It provides excellent print quality, strong structure, and easy folding, making it suitable for beginners as well as experienced papercraft builders.
Why Paper Choice Matters
Many beginners focus on downloading beautiful papercraft templates but overlook one important factor: the paper itself. Using the wrong paper can make folding difficult, weaken the structure, or even ruin an otherwise excellent model.
Choosing the right cardstock helps improve print quality, makes assembly easier, and gives your finished model a cleaner appearance.
Recommended Paper Weight (GSM)
Paper thickness is measured in GSM (grams per square meter). Different projects may require different paper weights.
| Paper Weight | Best For |
|---|---|
| 80–100 GSM | Test prints |
| 120–160 GSM | Small and medium models |
| 180–220 GSM | Large or detailed models |
| 220+ GSM | Display bases and reinforcement |
For most free papercraft templates available online, 160 GSM matte cardstock offers the best balance between durability and flexibility.
Matte or Glossy?
Most papercraft designers recommend matte cardstock because it provides:
- Better glue adhesion
- Cleaner fold lines
- Less visible fingerprints
- More natural-looking finished models
Glossy paper can produce brighter colors but is generally harder to fold and glue.
Can My Printer Handle Cardstock?
Most modern inkjet and laser printers support paper between 160 and 200 GSM. Before printing an entire template, print a single page first to check:
- Paper feeding
- Color quality
- Ink drying
- Fold accuracy
Always select the "Heavy Paper" or "Cardstock" option in your printer settings when available.
Pro Tips
- Use a sharp hobby knife for cleaner cuts.
- Score fold lines before folding.
- Apply glue in small amounts.
- Store cardstock in a dry place.
- Test printer settings before printing the full template.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 160 GSM good for papercraft?
Yes. It is considered the best all-around choice for most papercraft templates because it combines strength with easy folding.
Can I use regular printer paper?
You can use 80 GSM paper for testing, but finished models will usually be too weak. Cardstock is strongly recommended.
Should beginners use thicker paper?
Not always. Paper that is too thick can make precise folding difficult. Beginners generally achieve the best results with 160 GSM cardstock.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right paper is one of the easiest ways to improve your papercraft experience. While different projects may require different materials, 160 GSM matte cardstock remains the safest recommendation for most printable papercraft templates.
As you gain more experience, experimenting with different paper weights will help you find the perfect balance for your printer and your favorite model types.
Related Guides
- How to Print PDO Files Correctly
- What Is Pepakura Viewer?
- Best Beginner Papercraft Models
- How to Scale Papercraft Templates
