Cardstock Basics

Cardstock comes in three sizes: 8 1/2" x 12", 12" x 12", and 6" x 6".

• 8 1/2" x 11" - This is the standard paper size in the U.S. All of the colors are available in this size. This is usually the size that I cut my card bases from. The standard size greeting card in the U.S. is 4 1/4" x 5 1/2" (folded), which is half of an 8 1/2" x 11" sheet of paper. You can cut two card bases from this paper size. It is also useful for card fronts, bags, boxes, gift tags, die cutting, etc.

• 12" x 12" - all of the colors as well as the Designer Series Paper (patterned paper) are available in this size. This size is for card bases, card fronts, boxes, bags, mini-albums, die cutting, etc. Twelve-inch x 12" paper is also great for fun fold card where longer pieces are needed, including the accordion fold. It is also easier and with less waste to cut strips with factors of 12. For example, you can cut four 3" strips from a 12" x 12" paper whereas you can only cut two 3" strips from a 8 1/2" x 11". The Designer Series Paper is a bit thinner than cardstock, making it awesome for envelopes too.

• 6" x 6" - special or seasonal Designer Series Paper is available in this size. This size is great for larger dies like the mini treat bag thinlits, gift card envelope thinlits, and the baker's box thinlits. It is also great for card fronts, gift tags, die cutting, bags, and boxes. This size was perfect for the Valentine's Day Treat Bag made with the Love Blossoms Designer Series Paper Stack in the Weekly Deals post. The project possibilities are endless!

Let's cut some paper! Grab your paper trimmer and two sheets of 8 1/2" x 11" cardstock.

1.  To cut a card that opens like a book (horizontal fold), turn the cardstock sideways so that the 11" side is at the top, slide it into your paper trimmer until it reaches the 5.5" mark, make sure the paper is straight, and cut.

Fold each in half piece in half. Press along each fold with your bone folder to get a crisp fold that will lay flatter.

Voila! You now have two card bases!

 2. To cut a card that opens from top to bottom (vertical fold), turn the cardstock so that the 8 1/2" side is at the top, slide it into your paper trimmer until it reaches the 4.25" mark, make sure the paper is straight, and cut.

Fold each in half piece in half. Press along each fold with your bone folder to get a crisp fold that will lay flatter.

 Well done! You now have two more card bases!

Save your card bases for tomorrow's springtime thank you card.
Thanks for stopping by!
Beth

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