What paper is best for printing wedding invitations at home?

The best paper for home-printed invitations is a heavyweight card that feels substantial but still feeds through your printer. Look for 250 to 300 gsm card stock. Anything thinner feels flimsy, and anything thicker may jam or not bend well. Choose a smooth or lightly textured surface. Smooth card gives the sharpest text and most accurate colours. A subtle texture like linen or felt adds elegance but can make fine text look slightly soft, so test it first.

Avoid glossy or coated papers unless you have a printer designed for them. Inkjet ink sits on top of glossy surfaces and can smudge as soon as you touch it. Matte card absorbs the ink and dries quickly. If you want a sheen, choose a soft silk or satin finish instead of full gloss.

Colour matters too. Bright white makes colours pop, while cream or ivory gives a softer, more traditional feel. If you are printing photos, a slightly textured card can reduce the crispness, so go smooth. Always buy a small sample pack of different weights and finishes, print your design on each, and see which one feels right in your hand and looks best in your design. That little extra effort makes a big difference.