If you’re into paper crafting, you already know how important it is to choose the right kind of paper. Whether you’re making a handmade card for a friend, creating a scrapbook page filled with memories, or working on a DIY home decor project, the paper you use can make all the difference.
This guide will help you understand the different types of craft paper and how to choose the best ones for your projects. So whether you’re shopping from one of your favourite scrapbooking online shops or browsing a local scrapbook store, you’ll know exactly what to look for.
Why the Right Craft Paper Matters
Craft paper isn’t just paper—it’s the base of your creativity. The texture, thickness, color, and finish can affect how your final project looks and feels. That’s why crafters across the U.S. trust reliable scrapbooking supplies to bring their ideas to life. Good paper gives your crafts a polished, long-lasting look and keeps them from wrinkling, fading, or falling apart over time.
Top Types of Craft Paper for Crafters
Let’s explore some of the most popular types of craft paper used in scrapbooking, cardmaking, and other paper crafts. You can find all of these at trusted scrapbooking online shops like 12×12 Cardstock Shop, which offers a wide range of craft supplies in the USA.
1. Cardstock Paper
Cardstock is the go-to paper for most paper crafters. It’s thicker than regular printer paper and comes in a variety of weights, textures, and finishes.
- Best For: Scrapbook layouts, handmade cards, die-cutting, and 3D crafts.
- Features: Comes in smooth, textured, glitter, and patterned versions.
- Tip: Choose heavier cardstock (like 80lb–110lb) for layered crafts or anything that needs to stand on its own.
At 12×12 Cardstock Shop, you can explore hundreds of scrapbook paper options in solid colors, glitter, shimmer, and embossed finishes—all designed to help your project pop.
2. Patterned Paper
The patterned paper is a favourite for scrapbookers. It adds personality and design without needing extra embellishments.
- Best For: Backgrounds, borders, photo mats, or even fussy cutting designs.
- Features: Comes in themes for holidays, seasons, baby showers, weddings, and more.
- Tip: Mix and match prints with solid cardstock for a balanced layout.
When shopping online for scrapbook supplies, make sure to pick coordinated patterned paper packs. They save time and ensure everything works well together.
3. Vellum Paper
Vellum is a semi-transparent paper that gives a soft, dreamy look to your crafts.
- Best For: Wedding invitations, soft overlays, layering behind text or photos.
- Features: Available in clear, colored, and printed styles.
- Tip: Use vellum with dry adhesives or brads to avoid visible glue marks.
Many scrapbooking online shops carry vellum in packs or individual sheets, perfect for adding elegance to your cards and layouts.
4. Specialty Craft Papers
These include glitter paper, metallic sheets, embossed textures, holographic styles, and more. Specialty papers are great for adding sparkle, shine, and dimension.
- Best For: Die-cut shapes, titles, accents, and festive themes.
- Features: Durable and decorative, but may need strong adhesives.
- Tip: Use specialty paper sparingly as an accent to make your design stand out.
At 12×12 Cardstock Shop, you’ll find high-quality specialty paper that’s perfect for both beginners and advanced crafters.
5. Kraft Paper
Kraft paper offers a natural, rustic look. It’s durable and gives your crafts a handmade, organic feel.
- Best For: Journaling tags, vintage layouts, masculine designs, or eco-friendly themes.
- Features: Usually brown but available in different shades.
- Tip: Pair with white or black ink for contrast, or add lace and twine for a farmhouse vibe.
Where to Shop for Quality Craft Paper
While there are many options out there, finding reliable and high-quality scrapbooking supplies can sometimes be a challenge. That’s why many crafters in the U.S. turn to dedicated scrapbooking online shops like 12×12 Cardstock Shop. Their store is filled with hundreds of paper choices, crafting tools, and embellishments—all focused on helping you create beautiful, long-lasting projects.
Whether you’re new to crafting or a seasoned scrapbooker, it’s important to find a shop that offers a great selection, fast shipping, and trustworthy customer service. The 12×12 Cardstock Shop delivers all that and more.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right craft paper is the first step in creating something special. With so many styles available—from classic cardstock to eye-catching glitter and soft vellum—there’s a perfect match for every project. Next time you browse your favourite scrapbook store or search for craft supplies USA, keep this guide in mind.
Ready to start your next project? Visit the 12×12 Cardstock Shop for top-quality papers, tools, and all your scrapbooking supplies in one easy place.

