Paper Guide: The Best Paper for Junk Journal Printables

Not sure what paper to print your junk journal printables on? In this paper guide, I’ll show you the exact papers I use — plus a few creative options to try if you’re ready to experiment.

Paper might seem simple… until you try to pick one.

If you’ve ever searched for “cardstock” and found yourself drowning in numbers, weights, coatings, and cryptic product names, you’re not alone. Glossy vs. matte? 32 lb vs. 160 gsm? What does any of it actually mean — and which one is right for your printable?

I made this paper guide for you — the crafter who just wants to make something beautiful without feeling like you need a degree in paper science first.

Whether you’re printing junk journal pages, tags, folios, or ephemera, choosing the right paper can completely transform how your project looks and feels. And the good news? You don’t need a dozen different types. I’m going to walk you through the basic paper options I use again and again — and show you how to get great results, even with a simple setup.

Already have a paper you love? Stick with it! This post isn’t about making you second-guess what’s working. It’s here to help if you’re still figuring things out, or if your prints aren’t quite turning out how you imagined.

We’ll start with the essentials and then explore some fun, inspiring ideas toward the end. Use what clicks. Leave what doesn’t. There are no paper police here. 😉

🧾 Basic Papers

The Best Paper for Junk Journal Printables

If you’re wondering what kind of paper to use for printing your junk journal kits and printables — you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions I get from both beginners and seasoned crafters alike. Choosing the right paper not only improves your final result, but it can also make printing easier and more enjoyable.

Here are my three go-to paper types for all of my junk journal projects.

• Writing Paper (around 120 gsm or 32 lb): Best for journal pages, inserts, and foldable elements.
• Light Cardstock (around 160–190 gsm): Great for fussy cuts, ephemera, pockets, and decorative layering.
• Medium Cardstock (around 250 gsm or 92 lb COVER): Perfect for journal covers and folio bases.

Let’s take a closer look at each paper type, why I recommend it, and a few great alternatives you can find online.

📄 Writing Paper (120 gsm / 32 lb)

This thinner, smooth paper is ideal for printing journal pages that will be folded, written on, or layered. It offers flexibility while still giving you rich, vibrant print quality.

• I recommend: HP Premium 32 lb Paper – 8.5 x 11″ (120 gsm)
  Available in both US and UK Amazon stores.
• Why I love it: It delivers excellent color clarity and saturation without bleeding or curling. It feels slightly thicker than standard printer paper, but still folds beautifully.

Alternative options include:

• 24 lb / 90 gsm printer paper
• 28 lb / 105 gsm bright white paper
• 32 lb / 120 gsm matte or semi-gloss finish paper

📦 Light Cardstock (163 gsm / 90 lb INDEX)

This is my workhorse paper. It’s ideal for printable ephemera, embellishments, fussy cuts, and small folio pieces. It cuts cleanly (even by hand), folds easily, and has just the right balance of thickness and flexibility.

• I recommend: Neenah Lightweight Index Cardstock (8.5 x 11″, 90 lb / 163 gsm)
  Available in US and UK Amazon stores.
• Why I love it: It’s smooth, crisp, and holds its shape well — but doesn’t jam printers or add too much bulk to your journals.

Other great alternatives in the 160–190 gsm range include:

• 65 lb Cover cardstock
• 176 gsm white or kraft paper
• 160 gsm A4 card (often used for resumes or crafts)

📚 Medium Cardstock (250 gsm / 92 lb COVER)

For journal covers, folio bases, and anything that needs to be sturdy — this is the cardstock I reach for. It’s thick enough to hold its shape, but still compatible with most home printers if used correctly.

• I recommend: Uncle Paul 92 lb Double Sided Cover Cardstock (8.5 x11″)
  Available in US and UK Amazon stores.
• Why I love it: It handles heavy ink coverage without curling or jamming, and folds smoothly without cracking. I use it in my Epson EcoTank without any trouble.

Looking for even more stability? Consider:

• 110 lb COVER cardstock (around 300 gsm)
• 250–300 gsm white or colored card
• Check your printer specs before using cardstock above 250 gsm!

🧻 What About Regular Printer Paper?

Standard copy paper (typically 75–83 gsm or 20–22 lb) can be used in a pinch, but it’s often too thin to support full-page designs or layering. Ink can bleed through or cause the paper to curl — especially with colorful printables.

When is it okay to use? I occasionally use it for lightweight inserts, notepads, or pages that won’t hold pockets or embellishments. It’s also handy if you want to test-print layouts or sizes before using your ‘good paper.’

📸 Photo Paper & Fancy Finishes

If you’ve ever printed a beautiful junk journal kit and thought, “Hmm, why doesn’t it look as rich as it did on Etsy?” — the answer might be your paper.

Let’s talk about photo paper and a few premium printing picks that can take your printables from “pretty” to “wow.”

📄 Cardstock vs. Photo Paper: What’s the Difference?

Cardstock and photo paper might feel similar in thickness, but they’re designed for totally different things.

• Cardstock is great for strength. It’s sturdy, versatile, and works beautifully for most crafting tasks — like pockets, tags, and journal covers.
• Photo paper is optimized for color. It has a smooth, coated surface that soaks in ink evenly and makes your designs pop.

If cardstock is your sturdy workhorse, photo paper is the colorful star of the show.

✔️ Why I Love Matte Photo Paper

Matte photo paper gives you the richness of color without the glare. I use it when I want a printable to really shine — like on a folio flap or decorative panel. It feels smooth, prints beautifully, and the ink dries quickly with no smudging.

It’s perfect for:

• Cover panels
• Standalone journal elements
• Full-page printable designs

📌 My go-to matte photo paper: [Insert your preferred product link here]

✨ When Glossy Photo Paper Makes Sense

Glossy paper has a time and place — especially if you love adding a bit of shine or contrast to your journal.

I use it sparingly, often to create a focal point in a layered cluster or to mimic the look of vintage postcards and ephemera. A glossy finish can really stand out in a spread filled with softer textures.

Just a heads-up: glossy paper can be a little slippery and harder to glue, so keep that in mind if you’re layering.

📌 My pick for glossy prints: [Insert product link here]

💎 What About Fancy Paper?

If you’re someone who loves playing with texture or wants to add something special, there are a few premium papers worth trying.

None of these are required, but they’re fun to experiment with:

• Resume paper – Usually has a linen or cotton texture and gives your pages a soft, vintage feel.
• Fine art inkjet paper – More expensive, but great if you want to make a cover that looks extra polished.
• Textured stationery paper – Adds a subtle background feel and prints nicely when used as layering material.

If you’re curious, try one or two sheets before committing to a full pack. They’re not always cheap — but they are satisfying.

🏷️ Sticker Paper

Turn Printables into Stickers

Whether you’re decorating a page, sealing an envelope, or creating your own washi tape — sticker paper makes it quick and easy to turn your printables into peel-and-stick perfection.

Let’s walk through your options.

🖨️ White Matte Sticker Paper

This is the classic, most versatile choice. Great for fussy cuts, labels, and decorative elements.

• Feeds easily through most home printers
• Dries quickly, won’t smudge
• Looks clean and professional
• Easy to cut — by hand or with a Cricut

📌 My pick: Spartan Industrial Matte Inkjet Labels (Letter Size)

🌫️ Clear Sticker Paper

Perfect when you want your background to show through (like for layering over ephemera or text).

• Transparent finish
• Looks magical over vintage paper
• Can be a little tricky to cut or peel (use sharp scissors or a weeding tool)

📌 I recommend: Printable Clear Sticker Paper

💦 Waterproof Vinyl Sticker Paper

If you’re printing something that’ll be handled a lot or you want extra durability, this is a good pick.

• More durable and tear-resistant
• Has a bit of a satin sheen
• Great for folio flaps or decorative cards

📌 Try this one: Waterproof Printable Vinyl Sticker Paper

🧊 Vellum Sticker Paper

Semi-transparent and dreamy — perfect for making soft, delicate accents or DIY washi tape.

• Feels like thin frosted tape
• Blends beautifully with layered collage
• Gives that handmade touch to any project

📌 Love this look? Alinacutle Washi Vellum Sticker Paper

🟤 Kraft Sticker Paper

For those vintage lovers out there — kraft sticker paper has a soft brown tone that adds instant antique charm.

• Great for faux postage, address labels, or layering
• Looks amazing with typewriter fonts or ink stamps

📌 [Insert your favorite kraft paper product link here]

🧠 Stickers With Regular Paper

You don’t need sticker paper to make stickers. You can:

• Print on regular paper
• Cut out your designs
• Use glue or a glue stick to attach them

Will it take a little longer? Sure. But is it just as crafty and creative? Absolutely.

🔗 Sticker Tutorials You’ll Love

• [How to Make Stickers from Printable Fussy Cuts – Insert Link]
• [How to Cut Stickers with a Cricut – Insert Link]
• [Decorating Junk Journals with Stickers – Insert Link]
• [How to Make DIY Washi Tape – Insert Link]

🌫️ Vellum, Tracing & Transparent Paper

If you’ve ever wanted to add a soft, dreamy layer to your journal pages — vellum is your new best friend. It’s one of my favorite materials to use when I want a little transparency, elegance, or mystery in a project.

🧾 What Is Vellum?

Vellum is a semi-transparent paper that’s smooth, soft, and just a little bit frosty. It’s not as see-through as acetate, but still lets whatever’s underneath peek through.

Vellum can be:

• Written on
• Stamped
• Printed on (yes, even with a home printer!)
• Layered over patterns or text for a soft, romantic effect

You’ll often find vellum used for window pockets, tip-ins, or layered ephemera. It gives your journal pages that whispery, delicate feel — like a sheer curtain made of paper.

✏️ Is Vellum the Same as Tracing Paper?

Almost — but not quite.

• Tracing paper is usually thinner and more transparent than vellum.
• Vellum tends to be a bit sturdier, smoother, and better for printing.

You can absolutely use both in junk journaling. If you’re layering or creating windows, tracing paper works beautifully. But for printing? I recommend sticking with true vellum — it feeds better through most home printers and gives a crisper result.

📌 My favorite vellum paper: [Insert vellum product link]
📌 My favorite tracing paper: [Insert tracing paper product link]

🧊 Are There Different Types of Vellum?

Yes! And the variety is fun to explore.

• Weight: Vellum comes in different thicknesses — from super light and sheer to heavier, almost cardstock-style sheets.
• Surface: Most vellum is smooth, but some versions have a soft, textured feel.
• Color: White (or frosted) is the most common, but you can also find colored vellum — soft pastels, deep jewel tones, even metallics!

Each one prints slightly differently, so it’s worth testing a sheet or two to see what works with your printer.

✨ Want to See Vellum in Action?

I use vellum in several tutorials! Here are a few to check out:

• [Vellum Pocket Tutorial – Insert Link]
• [Layered Tag Using Vellum – Insert Link]
• [How to Print on Vellum Without Smudging – Insert Link]

✨ Specialty Papers

Special Papers for Unique Effects

Looking to shake things up a bit? These specialty papers can add texture, personality, and creative flair to your junk journal printables. Some of these are surprising (wood veneer? yes!), but all of them open up new possibilities beyond basic cardstock.

Let’s take a peek:

• 🎨 Colored Cardstock
  A simple way to add color without ink! Especially lovely with my Ink Saver Collection — try light pinks, creams, or pale blues for a soft, vintage effect. Works great for tags, layering pieces, or full journal pages.
• 🧻 Tissue Paper
  Delicate and semi-transparent, this paper is perfect for making decoupage elements or layering over backgrounds. Print on it carefully (tape it to a regular sheet!) and use with matte glue for a dreamy effect.
• 🧻 Rice Paper
  Ultra-lightweight and semi-translucent with a soft, fibrous texture. Yes, it can be printed on (usually with an inkjet printer), but because it’s so delicate, it’s best to tape it to a regular sheet of paper for stability before feeding it through your printer.
  📌 Best for: Decoupage elements, layering effects, or adding subtle texture to journal pages.
• 📄 Cotton or Linen Resume Paper
  Feels luxe and has a subtle texture. It prints beautifully and adds a refined touch to tags, labels, or signature pages in your journal.
• 🖼️ Canvas Paper
  This is thick, textured paper made to mimic real canvas. It’s sturdy enough for journal covers and folio structures, and gives everything a painterly, tactile finish.
• 💧 Watercolor Paper
  Surprisingly underused in junk journaling! It’s textured, absorbent, and adds instant richness to any printable — especially botanicals or vintage designs.
• 📜 Laid Paper
  This paper has subtle ridges that run across the surface (like handmade paper). It looks old-fashioned in the best way and adds interest without overwhelming your design.
• 🍃 Mulberry Paper
  Wispy and fibrous, this natural-feeling paper is great for rustic or nature-themed projects. It absorbs ink in unusual ways, so keep your designs simple and test your settings first.
• 🪞 Transparency Film
  See-through magic! You can create layered windows, peekaboo flips, or acetate overlays. Inkjet-friendly versions exist — just make sure it’s designed for printing!
• 🌲 Printable Wood Veneer Sheets
  Yes, really. These ultra-thin wood slices can go through inkjet printers and give your journals an earthy, grounded feel. Great for folio covers or special statement pieces.
• 💧 Synthetic Paper (Yupo or similar)
  This paper is waterproof, tear-resistant, and smooth as glass. It holds color beautifully and is amazing for layering, collage, or creating a slick, modern twist. It’s a bit of a splurge, but fun for standout pages.
• 🎯 Printable Magnetic Sheets
  Use these to make closures, magnetic tuck spots, or movable elements. Great for interactive folios — and a fun surprise for whoever flips through your journal.
• 🖨️ Decal Paper
  Used to transfer printed images onto other surfaces (like fabric, wood, or glass). A bit experimental, but perfect if you’re mixing altered books or multimedia elements into your journals.

Want to explore more creative paper possibilities? I’m putting together a full Specialty Papers Guide with even more tips, use cases, and product links — stay tuned or click here to check if it’s live yet.

🧾 Repurposed Paper

Want to give your printables a little history? Try printing on repurposed paper — things like vintage book pages, sheet music, old maps, newspapers, or even magazine clippings. These already-printed papers add gorgeous layered effects, especially when paired with simple black-and-white printables or transparent elements like fussy cuts and florals.

This method adds instant charm (and helps reduce paper waste). Just be mindful: the background design may show through your printable — that’s part of the look!

📌 Curious how it works? Check out this tutorial for the full how-to →

🧵 Print on Fabric

Want to add cozy texture to your junk journal? You can print directly onto fabric — no fancy tools needed. Here are a few easy ways to bring your printables into the textile world:

• Iron-On Paper – Print your design on special transfer paper, then use an iron to apply it to fabric.
  👉 Follow the full tutorial here →
• Direct-to-Fabric Printing – Some inkjet printers let you print right onto cotton (with a little prep work).
  👉 See how it’s done →
• Tissue Paper + Decoupage – Print on tissue paper, then decoupage it onto fabric for a soft, vintage effect.
  👉 Try this method →

🧵 Mix & Match

Want to Get Creative? Combine Paper Types!

This is one of my favorite things to do. Instead of using the same paper throughout your project, try mixing and layering:

• Matte and glossy finishes
• Opaque cardstock with translucent vellum
• Textured paper like watercolor or linen with smooth sticker paper

This kind of contrast adds depth, tactile variety, and visual richness to your journals, folios, and ephemera.

You can even experiment with printing the same design across different paper types to see how each one transforms the final look. It’s a fun way to discover your unique style — and it turns every page into a mini adventure.

📌 Stay tuned: I’ll be sharing a full guide on combining paper textures and finishes soon — with printable swatches, too!

🚫 What Not to Print On

Just because something fits in your printer doesn’t mean it should go in your printer. 😅 There are a few materials that might seem fun to experiment with — but they’re usually more trouble than they’re worth:

• Glossy gift wrap or foil – These may smear or melt under heat.
• Highly textured scrapbook paper – Thick embossing or glitter can block ink from transferring evenly.
• Very thin or crinkled vintage paper – This can rip, jam, or absorb ink unevenly.
• Waxed paper – Ink doesn’t stick well (better as a layering or decoupage element).
• Fabric-backed paper – Can shed fibers or clog printer heads.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try those materials with other craft techniques — but when it comes to printing, stick to the tried-and-true options we’ve covered above. Your printer (and sanity) will thank you.

Next Steps

You Don’t Need Every Paper - Just the Right Ones for You

Whew — that was a lot of paper talk! And if your brain’s spinning a little, that’s okay.

You absolutely do not need every single type of paper mentioned in this guide. You don’t need to overhaul your stash or buy specialty supplies just to start. If all you have is regular printer paper, that’s enough to begin.

This guide is here to inspire, not overwhelm. Take what helps. Bookmark the rest. Build your collection slowly and intentionally, based on what you love to create. I’ll be here cheering you on.

🧵 Ready to keep learning?

• 👉 Printing Guide – How to Print Your Junk Journal Printables
• 👉 The Best Craft Printer
• 👉 How to Store and Organize Your Printable Paper Stash
• 👉 Try This: Make Your Own Printable Swatch Sheet

You’ve got this.

Happy crafting,
Cyna xx