What's the best paper stock for wedding invitations?

Cotton, linen, and pearl are the most popular stocks for wedding invitations because they feel rich and textured in hand, which sets the right tone for a formal event. Most couples choose heavier stocks, 24pt or thicker, since weight signals quality the moment a guest picks up the card.

• Cotton and linen: textured, classic, and clearly formal. Cotton is a favorite for letterpress designs, and linen adds a subtle woven feel.
• Pearl: a subtle shimmer for a luxe finish.
• Smooth uncoated stock: clean, modern, and easy to write on.
• Thick matte at 32pt: a modern option about three times the thickness of a standard business card. Soft-touch matte, a velvety coating, has grown fast in popularity.
• Raised spot UV: glossy raised accents over a matte base for contrast.
• Any of these makes an impression the moment the envelope opens.

Since how the invitation feels in hand matters most, requesting a sample of a few stocks before committing is worth the short wait.