Top 5 Colored Cardstock Techniques You Need to Know

Looking into making your own handmade cards? The first and most important thing you should get is cardstock paper. And no, we’re not talking about the plain, white ones. You deserve to unleash your creativity with colorful cardstock! 

Anyone can take a piece of paper and fold it in half to make a greeting card. However, it takes a bit of skill to turn those pieces of paper into a masterful greeting card. You can achieve that with different-colored cardstock, and we’ll be teaching you how to do things like adding layers with colored cardstock, achieving color gradients, and more in this detailed guide!

What Is Cardstock Paper? 

You can typically use any type of paper to make your greeting cards, but cardstock is the best. This is because it’s thicker and more durable compared to other paper types like pad or bond paper. You want something that can hold mixed media along with other embellishments you want to add to your card. 

There are more opportunities for creative card ideas when you use colored cardstock. Not only will your base have a color other than white, but you can create different color effects, layering, and more! All it takes is some essential skills that will help you get started.

Pro Tips You Should Know About Colored Cardstock 

Do you have colored cardstock but are unsure where to begin? We got you covered! Here are a few techniques you should try to elevate your greeting cards: 

#1 - Layering for Dimension and Depth 

If you want your handmade cards to look professional, try layering colored cardstock. You can come up with abstract or specific designs to exude that 2D or 3D illusion that really makes your cards pop. Layering pieces of cardstock on top of each other will help you achieve this look! 

Crafty Necessities 8.5’’x11’’ Colored Cardstock

On the other hand, consider playing around with thickness to add depth to your cards. This can be done by using paper with different thickness levels or by stacking them together! 

#2 - Precision Die-Cutting for Intricate Results

Another great way to use colored cardstock is through die cutting. This is essentially the process of creating intricate design cut-outs that would be difficult or impossible if you were to cut them by hand. Die-cutting makes cardmaking so much easier, and you can enjoy the process more with colorful cardstock. 

For an even more interesting look, try using different colored cardstock for layered images to add different effects!

Crafty Necessities 8.5’’x11’’ Colored Cardstock

If you have some Die Sets or a Die-cutting Machine at home, consider playing around with colored cardstock to make intricate, multi-colored dies! If you opt for a plain white card base, using colored cardstock to create die-cuts will give it a much-needed pop of vibrant color. 

#3 - Incorporating Mixed Media for Variety 

Although cardstock on its own holds a lot of design possibilities, you can always mix things up (pun intended) by adding mixed media! This means experimenting with other crafting materials like inks, stamps, watercolors, stickers, and more! These give you the perfect opportunity to personalize your cards and make it more fun to play around with different elements as well.

Twinkling Horizon Glitter Cardstock Bundle

For example, if you’ve chosen a Desert Night Cardstock that resembles a gorgeous, clear night sky, what better way to enhance that image than with a Cloud Scene Stencil or maybe some Satin White Sequins to resemble sparkly stars? Mixed media elevates your colored cardstock and turns it into a cardmaking masterpiece. 

#4 - Embossing and Debossing for Texture 

If you’re looking to add another decorative element to your handmade cards, consider embossing or debossing. This is easily achievable using crafting tools like Embossing Folders. They will give that slightly raised effect on specific parts of your card, adding texture and subtle shadow effects. 

Forest Glades Cardstock

Plus, embossing or debossing works incredibly well with colored cardstock! You’ll find that some of the details pop and look more vibrant as opposed to using plain white cardstock paper. You can even choose cardstock based on your theme – for instance, you could go for a Forest Glades Cardstock if you want to use this Leaf Crown 3D Embossing Folder. 

#5 - Creating Gradient or Rainbow Effects 

Having different color cardstock also means being able to play with different color combinations. You can either choose colors that have similar shades or go for contrasting tones to achieve a bolder result. If you want to go all out and try a gradient cardstock rainbow effect, then that would be great as well! 

Altenew 3x6 Gradient Cardstock

To achieve gradient effects, you’ll typically have to start with one cardstock as your base, then cut different colored cardstock before placing them next to each other on your card. Think of it like achieving a colorful, striped effect! This is a great technique to try especially if you can’t decide which colored cardstock to use. 

How Can Colored Cardstock Elevate Your Handmade Cards? 

Now that you have a better understanding of essential cardstock paper tips, let’s do a recap and dive into some of the benefits you can experience while working with different colored cardstock: 

• Avoid plain-looking backgrounds
• Sets a specific tone and mood 
• Great for personalization 
• Helps emphasize focal points
• Adds depth and contrast
• Best for layered and textured effects 

Add Life and Vibrance to Your Cards With Colored Cardstock! 

Adding a pop of color makes everything better and will inspire you to make amazing handmade greeting cards. We hope this guide has been helpful and encourage you to play around with different colored cardstock to make the most of your crafting projects. 

Get your hands on some colored cardstock today and get to crafting! If you need more cardmaking ideas with colorful cardstock, visit us In the Craft Room.