Walk into any craft cupboard and you'll find card in three broad finishes: linen, pearlescent and smooth. Each behaves differently, looks different and suits different projects. Here's how to tell them apart and choose the right one — advice drawn from 20 years supplying card to crafters and stationers.
Linen card
Linen card has a fine, fabric-like woven texture pressed into the surface. It adds depth and a premium, tactile feel that flat card can't match, and it's forgiving of minor print imperfections because the eye reads the texture first. Our Silkweave linen range is the classic choice for wedding invitations, keepsake cards and elegant stationery. Best for: weddings, luxury cards, anything that wants a refined, timeless look.
Pearlescent card
Pearlescent card carries a fine shimmer coating that catches the light for a soft, sophisticated glow — celebratory without being glittery. It comes in a wide palette and works beautifully for occasions that call for a little sparkle. Browse our pearlescent card range. Best for: Christmas cards, evening weddings, party stationery, anything that should shimmer.
Smooth card
Smooth card has a flat, even surface that delivers the sharpest print of any finish — ideal for fine detail, small type and photographic or watercolour designs. It's the dependable workhorse for everyday card making and a perfect base layer beneath textured or shimmer stocks. Best for: detailed printing, photo cards, layering and general crafting.
How to choose
Ask two questions: what impression do you want, and what are you printing? For a premium, tactile feel go linen; for sparkle and occasion go pearlescent; for crisp detail and photographs go smooth. Many of the best projects combine them — a smooth or linen base with a pearlescent layer on top.
A quick tip on weight
Whichever finish you choose, weight matters too. Most cards and invitations work best at 250–300gsm. If you're unsure, our card GSM guide explains how to pick the right thickness.
Ready to compare in person? Explore the A4 card range and order a few finishes to feel the difference.
