If you’ve ever ordered printed materials like flyers, postcards, business cards, or brochures, you’ve probably come across terms like “100# cover paper” and “12pt card stock.” These are two of the most commonly used types of heavy paper stock in the printing world — but what exactly do they mean, and how are they different?
Choosing the right paper stock can make a big difference in how your printed project looks, feels, and performs. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between 100# cover and 12pt cardstock so you can make the best decision for your next print job.
What Is 100# Cover Paper?
100# (100-pound) cover paper is a thick, durable type of paper stock that is often used for:
- Premium flyers
- Brochures
- Posters
- Booklet covers
- Presentation folders
The “100#” refers to the weight of 500 sheets (a ream) of the paper in its uncut form. So 100# cover means that 500 sheets weigh 100 pounds.
This paper is smooth, stiff, and professional, yet it still bends fairly easily. It’s thicker than text-weight paper (used for inside pages), but not as rigid as thick card stock. It has a high-quality feel that gives marketing materials a polished appearance without being too bulky.
What Is 12pt Card Stock?
12pt card stock refers to paper that is 12 points thick — where 1 point = 0.001 inch. So 12pt card stock is about 0.012 inches thick.
This is a common thickness for:
- Business cards
- Postcards
- Hang tags
- Table tents
- Rack cards
Unlike the # system (which refers to weight), the “pt” system refers strictly to thickness. 12pt is typically considered light-to-medium weight card stock, offering good stiffness and durability, but still easy to handle and cut.
So, What’s the Difference Between 100# Cover and 12pt Card Stock?
At first glance, they might seem similar — both are used for print jobs that require sturdy, high-quality materials. But there are a few key differences that matter, especially for graphic designers, marketers, and small business owners.
1. Thickness vs. Weight
- 100# cover refers to weight (how heavy 500 sheets are).
- 12pt card stock refers to thickness (how thick one sheet is).
Although they sound like apples and oranges, they are actually very close in thickness. A sheet of 100# cover paper is approximately 9.5 to 10pt thick, depending on the brand. So 12pt cardstock is slightly thicker than 100# cover.
2. Rigidity and Durability
- 12pt card stock is more rigid and stiffer than 100# cover.
- 100# cover has a little more flexibility and is slightly easier to fold or score.
This means if you want something that feels more like a card, go with 12pt. If you want something with a bit more flexibility — like for a folded brochure or flyer — 100# cover might be a better choice.
3. Finish Options
Both stocks are available in gloss, matte, or uncoated finishes, depending on the printer. Gloss finishes tend to make colors pop, while matte finishes offer a more muted and sophisticated look. Uncoated finishes are best for writing on or a more natural texture.
4. Best Use Cases
Here’s a quick breakdown of which stock fits which type of project:
| Project Type | Best Paper Type |
|---|---|
| Business Cards | 12pt card stock |
| Premium Flyers | 100# cover paper |
| Postcards | 12pt card stock |
| Folded Brochures | 100# cover paper |
| Menus | Either (depends on finish) |
| Hang Tags | 12pt card stock |
| Presentation Folders | 100# cover paper |
5. Cost and Print Handling
In general, 12pt cardstock may cost slightly more because of its added thickness and rigidity. However, both are considered mid-range stocks — more premium than text paper, but less expensive than super-heavy cardstocks like 16pt or 18pt.
If your print job involves folding, 100# cover is usually easier to work with and less prone to cracking along the fold. But if you’re looking for a sturdy card that stands up straight or holds shape, 12pt cardstock is the winner.
Which One Should You Choose?
Here’s a quick decision guide:
- Choose 100# Cover Paper if:
- You’re printing flyers, brochures, or posters that need a high-quality feel but not too stiff.
- You want a material that folds or scores well without cracking.
- You want a paper that’s thick but still flexible.
- Choose 12pt Card Stock if:
- You’re printing cards, tags, or postcards that need to be more rigid and durable.
- You want something that feels substantial and can hold its shape.
- You don’t need to fold the material (or you’re okay with scoring it).
Final Thoughts
Whether you go with 100# cover or 12pt cardstock, both are professional-quality stocks that make your printed materials stand out. The choice really comes down to how you plan to use the product, what kind of feel you want, and your budget.
At FlyersATL.com, we offer same-day and next-day printing for both 100# cover flyers and 12pt card stock products, including postcards, business cards, rack cards, and more. Need help deciding what’s best for your project? Reach out to our team — we’ll help you choose the perfect paper for your needs and make sure it looks great when it prints.