What Is 14pt Cardstock? | Thickness, Weight & Uses

14pt cardstock is a sturdy paper stock measuring 0.014 inches thick, commonly used for business cards and postcards.

If you’ve ever ordered business cards or postcards online, you’ve likely seen “14pt” listed as an option. The number refers to the paper’s physical thickness: each point equals one-thousandth of an inch, so 14pt stock measures 0.014 inches thick. That works out to roughly 0.36–0.39 millimeters. It’s a popular middle-ground choice for print projects that need more presence than standard paper but don’t require the heaviest board available.

How Paper Thickness Works in Printing

Printers measure cardstock by caliper—the actual physical thickness of a single sheet—using “points” as the unit. One point equals 0.001 inch, so 14pt simply means 14 thousandths of an inch. This is a direct measurement, not a weight estimate.

The distinction matters because thickness and weight are different properties. Weight, measured in pounds (lb) or grams per square meter (gsm), tells you density; thickness tells you physical dimension. Two sheets can weigh the same yet have different thicknesses depending on how the paper is compressed during manufacturing.

14pt vs. 16pt: What’s the Difference?

The most common comparison in cardstock is 14pt versus 16pt. At 0.016 inches thick, 16pt is noticeably more rigid and substantial. Printing supplier 4over4’s comparison guide notes that 16pt feels heavier and sturdier, while 14pt offers a good balance of flexibility and strength at a lower cost.

For everyday applications like business cards, postcards, and flyers, 14pt cardstock holds up well without feeling flimsy. It takes printing and finishing processes like scoring and folding cleanly, making it a reliable choice for projects where the piece needs to survive handling but doesn’t require premium heft.

Weight Equivalents and Finish Options

Vendors list 14pt stock’s weight differently. Printivity’s guide to 14pt extra-thick paper cites roughly 110–120 lb cover, while Silver Edge Packaging’s 14pt cardstock page gives a 300–310 gsm equivalent. These figures are approximations, not universal standards—conversions vary by manufacturer and stock construction.

The “pt” measurement refers only to thickness, never finish. Some suppliers sell 14pt as uncoated stock, while others offer gloss on one side, matte, or semi-gloss coatings. Always confirm the finish separately when ordering.

For budget-conscious print runs, 14pt is the workhorse choice. It handles full-color printing well and works for business cards, postcards, greeting cards, presentation folders, and even takeout boxes. It feels more substantial than lighter cover stocks without the premium cost of heavier options.

If you’re ready to compare specific products, our roundup of the best 14pt cardstock options breaks down top picks for different printing needs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Three errors trip up buyers unfamiliar with print specifications:

• Confusing thickness with weight. “Pt” measures physical thickness; “lb” and “gsm” measure weight. They relate but aren’t interchangeable.
• Assuming a standard finish. 14pt doesn’t specify coating. Uncoated, gloss, matte, and semi-gloss versions all exist, depending on the supplier.
• Treating vendor conversions as universal. One printer may label the same stock as 100 lb while another calls it 310 gsm. Request physical samples when the feel matters.

Home printer compatibility varies. Commercial equipment handles 14pt without issue, but many consumer printers list a maximum supported paper weight. Check your device’s specifications before loading a full tray—some home printers struggle with cardstock this thick.

FAQs

Is 14pt cardstock suitable for home printing?

It depends on your printer. Many inkjet and laser printers support cardstock up to a specified weight, but 14pt falls at the upper edge of consumer limits. Check your printer’s manual for the maximum paper thickness, and use the straight-through paper path if your model has one, as it handles thick media more reliably.

What’s the difference between 14pt and 110 lb cardstock?

In many cases, they’re the same thing. Vendors often describe 14pt stock as approximately 110–120 lb cover paper. The “pt” number measures thickness while “lb” measures weight, so the relationship varies by manufacturer. When precision matters, request a physical sample rather than relying on nominal specifications.

Does 14pt cardstock come in different finishes?

Yes. The “14pt” designation describes only thickness, not surface treatment. Suppliers offer uncoated, gloss-one-side, matte, and semi-gloss versions. Coating affects how ink absorbs, how colors appear, and how easily the surface scuffs, so choose the finish based on your project’s needs and confirm it with your printer before ordering.