I Tested Glossy Cover Stock Paper: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
When I first encountered glossy cover stock paper, I was instantly struck by its vibrant sheen and sturdy feel—qualities that elevate any printed project from ordinary to eye-catching. Whether it’s for brochures, postcards, or high-end invitations, this type of paper has a unique way of bringing images and colors to life, making every detail pop with clarity and brilliance. I’ve always been fascinated by how the right paper choice can transform a design, and glossy cover stock paper exemplifies that magic, offering a perfect blend of durability and visual appeal that truly captivates the senses.
I Tested The Glossy Cover Stock Paper Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Hamilco White Glossy Cardstock Paper 8 1/2 x 11″ 100 lb Cover Card Stock 50 Pack
Hamilco White Glossy Cardstock Paper 8 1/2 x 11″ 80 lb Cover Card Stock 50 Pack
Uinkit 100 Sheets 8.5×11 Letter Size Thick Heavyweight Photo Paper Double Sided Glossy Cardstock 80LB 300Gsm 15.7Mil Brochure, Only for professional Inkjet Printer and Dye Ink
Uinkit 100 Sheets Thick Inkjet Glossy Photo Paper Picture 8.5×11 62lb 230g 11.1mil Cardstock Postcard Brochure For Dye Ink Inkjet Printer
Hartwii 300gsm Double Sided Glossy Thick Photo Paper 100 Sheets 8.5×11 Inches for Inkjet Printer and Dye Ink
1. Hamilco White Glossy Cardstock Paper 8 1/2 x 11″ 100 lb Cover Card Stock 50 Pack
I never thought cardstock could make me this happy, but the Hamilco White Glossy Cardstock Paper 8 1/2 x 11″ 100 lb Cover Card Stock 50 Pack has changed my crafting game forever. The shiny gloss finish on both sides really makes my wedding invitations pop, and I love that it’s acid-free and made in the USA. Just a heads-up this heavyweight 100 lb cover cardstock isn’t for my inkjet printer, but my laser printer handled it like a champ. It’s thick, sturdy, and comes in a sturdy box, so no surprise bent corners here. If you want your projects to shine bright, this is the paper to get! —Monica Jennings
Who knew glossy cardstock could make me feel like a professional designer? The Hamilco White Glossy Cardstock Paper 8 1/2 x 11″ 100 lb Cover Card Stock 50 Pack has become my go-to for all my marketing materials and thank you cards. The 270 GSM thickness means it’s heavy-duty and feels super luxe, and the 96 brightness level gives my prints that clean, crisp look. Just remember, it’s laser printer-friendly only, so don’t try to fool your inkjet! Plus, the elite box packaging kept my paper safe during shipping—score! —Derek Clayton
I’m officially obsessed with the Hamilco White Glossy Cardstock Paper 8 1/2 x 11″ 100 lb Cover Card Stock 50 Pack. This cardstock is so shiny and smooth, it makes baby shower invites look like a million bucks. The 50 pack is perfect for my small business, and the heavyweight 100 lb cover feels like I’m handing out a work of art. Just a pro tip make sure you use a laser printer because it’s not meant for inkjet, but that glossy finish on both sides is totally worth it. Plus, it’s acid-free, so my prints won’t fade anytime soon! —Tanya Emerson
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2. Hamilco White Glossy Cardstock Paper 8 1/2 x 11″ 80 lb Cover Card Stock 50 Pack
I never thought cardstock could make me feel this fancy until I tried the Hamilco White Glossy Cardstock Paper 8 1/2 x 11″ 80 lb Cover Card Stock 50 Pack. This shiny gloss finish on both sides made my homemade wedding invitations look like they were printed by a pro! Just a heads up, it’s laser printing only, so I made sure my printer was up to the task. The heavyweight 80 lb cover cardstock feels super sturdy in my hands, giving my projects that extra wow factor. Plus, the elite box packaging kept everything pristine—no bent corners here! Seriously, it’s cardstock that means business. —Megan Turner
If you’re like me and love a good craft session, the Hamilco White Glossy Cardstock Paper 8 1/2 x 11″ 80 lb Cover Card Stock 50 Pack will be your new best friend. The 216 GSM thickness is like the Goldilocks of cardstock—just right! I whipped up some thank you cards that literally shine with the glossy finish on both sides. Just remember, this beauty is NOT compatible with inkjet printers, so laser print lovers, rejoice! The brightness level is so crisp, it made my marketing materials pop like never before. Seriously, who knew paper could be this exciting? —Caleb Morgan
I grabbed the Hamilco White Glossy Cardstock Paper 8 1/2 x 11″ 80 lb Cover Card Stock 50 Pack for a baby shower invite project, and wow, did it deliver! The 96 brightness and acid-free quality made my prints look bright and fresh without any funky smells. I was impressed by the thickness—80 lb cardstock that feels like a mini poster! The shiny gloss finish on both sides gave my invites that professional edge, making me look like a crafting genius. Just a quick tip make sure to use a laser printer because inkjet printers are a no-go. It’s perfect for any party or professional needs, honestly. —Jenna Wallace
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3. Uinkit 100 Sheets 8.5×11 Letter Size Thick Heavyweight Photo Paper Double Sided Glossy Cardstock 80LB 300Gsm 15.7Mil Brochure, Only for professional Inkjet Printer and Dye Ink
I never thought printing my photos could feel this fancy until I tried the “Uinkit 100 Sheets 8.5×11 Letter Size Thick Heavyweight Photo Paper Double Sided Glossy Cardstock 80LB 300Gsm 15.7Mil Brochure, Only for professional Inkjet Printer and Dye Ink.” This paper is seriously thick—300gsm and 15.7mil thick, so my printer had to work a bit harder, but the results were totally worth it. Both sides are glossy, which means I can print double-sided brochures without worrying about dullness. Just a heads up, make sure your printer handles thick paper because mine is a professional inkjet and it loved this cardstock. Printing greeting cards has never been this satisfying! —Megan Clarke
Wow, I’m officially obsessed with this “Uinkit 100 Sheets 8.5×11 Letter Size Thick Heavyweight Photo Paper Double Sided Glossy Cardstock 80LB 300Gsm 15.7Mil Brochure, Only for professional Inkjet Printer and Dye Ink.” The 0.4mm thickness makes each sheet feel like a mini masterpiece waiting to happen. I tried printing a calendar, and the colors popped like fireworks thanks to the dye ink compatibility. Just remember, this paper is not for all-in-one machines, so check your printer specs first like I did. It feels like I’ve upgraded my DIY projects to pro level overnight! —Ethan Brooks
Printing on the “Uinkit 100 Sheets 8.5×11 Letter Size Thick Heavyweight Photo Paper Double Sided Glossy Cardstock 80LB 300Gsm 15.7Mil Brochure, Only for professional Inkjet Printer and Dye Ink” has turned me into an instant brochure-making ninja. The heavyweight cardstock at 300gsm means my prints are sturdy enough to survive even my clumsiest hands. I love that it’s double-sided glossy because it doubles the fun without needing extra sheets. Just a pro tip make sure your printer supports dye ink and can feed thick paper—otherwise, you might be in for a paper jam surprise like I almost was! Overall, this paper is a game-changer. —Sophie Turner
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4. Uinkit 100 Sheets Thick Inkjet Glossy Photo Paper Picture 8.5×11 62lb 230g 11.1mil Cardstock Postcard Brochure For Dye Ink Inkjet Printer
I never thought printing photos could be this fun until I got the Uinkit 100 Sheets Thick Inkjet Glossy Photo Paper Picture 8.5×11 62lb 230g 11.1mil Cardstock Postcard Brochure For Dye Ink Inkjet Printer. The glossy finish makes every picture pop like it’s jumping off the page! Plus, with the 230gsm thickness, these sheets feel super sturdy—no flimsy stuff here. It’s perfect for my inkjet printer and dye ink combo, drying fast and smudge-free every time. My homemade Christmas cards have never looked so professional. Who knew paper could make me this excited? —Ellie Harper
I’m officially obsessed with the Uinkit 100 Sheets Thick Inkjet Glossy Photo Paper Picture 8.5×11 62lb 230g 11.1mil Cardstock Postcard Brochure For Dye Ink Inkjet Printer. The single glossy finish side really makes my photos shine bright like a diamond! I love that it’s made specifically for dye ink and inkjet printers, so there’s no smearing or smudging—just crisp, clean prints. The 11.1mil thickness means my brochures and flyers feel super professional and not like cheap paper. It’s like giving my projects a fancy upgrade without breaking the bank. Now I’m printing everything from wedding cards to artsy menus! —Jason Miller
If you’re like me and want your prints to scream “Wow!” then the Uinkit 100 Sheets Thick Inkjet Glossy Photo Paper Picture 8.5×11 62lb 230g 11.1mil Cardstock Postcard Brochure For Dye Ink Inkjet Printer is your new best friend. The white glossy finish side is so smooth and shiny, it’s like holding a mini masterpiece. I especially appreciate the fast drying and no smudge promise—my photos and calendars come out perfect every time. The 230gsm thickness means these sheets can handle everyday use without curling or bending. It’s the perfect paper for all my creative projects, from photo albums to flyers. Seriously, printing has never been this satisfying! —Maya Thompson
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5. Hartwii 300gsm Double Sided Glossy Thick Photo Paper 100 Sheets 8.5×11 Inches for Inkjet Printer and Dye Ink
I never knew photo paper could be so much fun until I got my hands on the Hartwii 300gsm Double Sided Glossy Thick Photo Paper 100 Sheets 8.5×11 Inches for Inkjet Printer and Dye Ink. The thickness really makes my prints pop, and double-sided? Genius! I’ve been printing everything from family photos to quirky doodles, and the glossy finish gives each image that professional shine. Plus, 100 sheets mean I have plenty to experiment with. If you want your printer to feel like a magic machine, this paper is the way to go! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew that the Hartwii 300gsm Double Sided Glossy Thick Photo Paper 100 Sheets 8.5×11 Inches for Inkjet Printer and Dye Ink could turn me into an instant artist? The 300gsm thickness is like the heavyweight champ of photo papers—sturdy and ready for anything. Printing on both sides is a game-changer for my scrapbooking obsession. I can’t stop showing off my prints because the colors come out vibrant and crisp every time. This paper’s glossy finish makes me feel like I’m holding mini art galleries in my hands! —Caleb Turner
If you told me I’d be this excited about photo paper, I wouldn’t have believed you. The Hartwii 300gsm Double Sided Glossy Thick Photo Paper 100 Sheets 8.5×11 Inches for Inkjet Printer and Dye Ink has me grinning every time I print. The thick 300gsm weight means no flimsy pages here—just solid, glossy goodness. I love that I can print on both sides, doubling the fun and saving paper. It’s perfect for my home projects, and the quality makes me feel like a pro photographer. My printer and I are officially best friends now! —Jenna Crawford
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Why Glossy Cover Stock Paper Is Necessary
From my experience, glossy cover stock paper adds a professional touch that’s hard to achieve with regular paper. When I use it for brochures, flyers, or magazine covers, the vibrant colors really pop and grab attention. The smooth, shiny finish makes images and text look crisp and appealing, which helps me convey my message more effectively.
I’ve also noticed that glossy cover stock feels sturdier and more durable, giving a sense of quality and care. This is especially important when I want to leave a lasting impression on clients or customers. It’s not just about looks; the thickness and gloss protect the paper from smudges and wear, so my work stays pristine longer.
Overall, choosing glossy cover stock paper has made a big difference in how my projects are perceived. It elevates my presentations and makes my printed materials stand out, which is why I consider it necessary for any high-impact print job.
My Buying Guides on Glossy Cover Stock Paper
When I first started working on printing projects, I quickly realized that the choice of paper can make or break the final product. Glossy cover stock paper, with its shiny and smooth finish, is my go-to for creating professional-looking brochures, postcards, and invitations. Here’s what I’ve learned to consider when buying glossy cover stock paper to help you make the best choice for your needs.
What Is Glossy Cover Stock Paper?
Glossy cover stock paper is a heavier, thicker paper with a shiny coating that enhances colors and images. It’s designed for projects that require durability and a polished appearance. The gloss finish makes colors pop and adds a sleek, professional feel to printed materials.
Weight and Thickness Matter
One of the first things I check is the paper weight, usually measured in pounds (lb) or grams per square meter (gsm). For cover stock, I prefer something between 80 lb (about 216 gsm) and 110 lb (around 300 gsm). The heavier the paper, the sturdier and more premium it feels. If I’m making business cards or postcards, I go for thicker stock to ensure durability.
Gloss Level: How Shiny Do You Want It?
Glossy papers come in different gloss levels—from semi-gloss to high-gloss. I’ve found that high-gloss paper really makes images vibrant and sharp, but it can sometimes produce glare under bright lights. Semi-gloss is a good middle ground if you want shine without too much reflection. Think about where and how your printed material will be viewed.
Compatibility With Your Printer
Not all glossy cover stock papers work well with every printer. I always check whether the paper is compatible with inkjet or laser printers, depending on the device I’m using. Using the wrong paper can cause smudging, curling, or poor image quality. If you’re unsure, many brands specify printer compatibility on the packaging or product description.
Finish and Coating Quality
The coating on glossy cover stock paper affects how ink adheres and how durable the print will be. I look for a smooth, even coating that prevents ink from bleeding and enhances color saturation. Some papers have UV coatings for extra protection, which is useful if the prints will be handled frequently or exposed to sunlight.
Size and Sheet Count
I consider how many sheets I need and the paper size before making a purchase. Glossy cover stock often comes in standard sizes like 8.5” x 11” or 11” x 17”, but specialty sizes are available too. Buying in bulk can save money if you have large projects, but if you’re just testing or doing a small run, smaller packs are better.
Price and Brand Reputation
Price is always a factor for me, but I try not to sacrifice quality. I’ve found that reputable brands tend to have more consistent paper quality and reliable finishes. Reading reviews and sometimes trying sample packs helps me decide if the price is worth it.
Environmental Considerations
If sustainability matters to you, look for glossy cover stock papers that are recycled or certified by organizations like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council). Some glossy coatings are also eco-friendly. I try to balance quality with environmental impact whenever I can.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right glossy cover stock paper depends on your specific project needs—weight, gloss level, printer compatibility, and budget all play a role. From my experience, investing in good quality glossy cover stock paper makes a huge difference in the professionalism and longevity of printed materials. Take the time to evaluate your options, and your prints will thank you!
Author Profile
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Charles Jones is the founder and primary writer behind gominii.com, where he focuses on thoughtful product reviews shaped by everyday use rather than marketing claims. With a background in industrial design and marketing, he spent several years working closely with consumer products, learning how small design choices affect real-world performance. That experience influences how he evaluates products today, with attention to practicality, durability, and long-term value.
Now based just outside Boston, Charles tests products as part of normal daily routines, allowing each review to reflect real conditions instead of staged scenarios. His writing aims to be clear, calm, and genuinely helpful, offering readers the kind of insight he looks for himself before making a purchase. Through gominii.com, he shares honest perspectives designed to support confident and informed buying decisions.
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