When it comes to creating your Holiday Cards, Invitations, or Custom Stationery, the paper you choose plays a big role in bringing your designs to life. At Nations Photo Lab, all of our flat, non-folded cards (also known as our Postcards) are printed on Acid-Free Paper to ensure durability and long-lasting quality. With ten premium paper types to choose from—Semi-Gloss, Matte, Linen, Pearl, Felt, Bamboo, Cotton, Signature Matte, Recycled, and Smooth—you’ll find the perfect fit for every occasion.
Let’s explore these options and help you choose the best match for your cards!
Semi-Gloss
Semi-Gloss paper offers a subtle sheen that enhances color vibrancy without being overly reflective.
Best for: Card Ornaments or Holiday Cards with bright, festive designs or vibrant family photos.
Matte
Matte paper features a smooth, non-reflective finish that delivers a timeless, elegant look.
Best for: Invitations with intricate details or simple, minimalist designs.
Linen
Linen paper adds a cross-textured, Linen finish that exudes sophistication and charm.
Best for: Save the Dates or Custom Stationery with a modern, understated aesthetic
Pearl
Pearl paper has a slight metallic finish that adds a festive glow to any card.
Best for: Photo-forward Graduation Announcements or Holiday Cards with wintery or glamorous themes.
Felt
Felt paper has a textured surface that conveys warmth and personality, making it perfect for artistic designs and easy to write on.
Best for: Custom Stationery or Holiday Cards with minimal or natural designs.
Bamboo
Bamboo paper has a bamboo texture look, giving your cards a unique, tactile feel, offering an upscale option for your designs that is also easy to write on.
Best for: Custom Stationery, Invitations, or Holiday Cards with a textured design.
Cotton
Cotton paper is the epitome of luxury, offering a soft yet premium finish for your most important cards.
Best for: Save the Date Invitations or upscale Holiday Cards.
Signature Matte
Our Signature Matte cards are printed on Mohawk Press Paper and feature a smooth, velvety finish that enhances crisp text and detailed designs.
Best for: Save the Dates with bold typography or simple, graphic layouts.
Recycled
Recycled paper is our only eco-friendly option, crafted with sustainability in mind. Printed on Mohawk Press Paper, it has a slightly textured surface that balances style with conscientiousness.
Best for: Earthy Save the Date Invitations or eco-conscious Holiday Cards.
Smooth
Smooth paper delivers a sleek and polished finish, ideal for vibrant designs. Printed on Domtar Press Paper, it offers a premium surface for clean, modern aesthetics.
Best for: Photo-heavy Holiday Cards, Graduation Announcements, or Custom Stationery for professional use.
…and don’t forget about Photo Paper Holiday Cards!
All of our Postcards are double-sided, giving you plenty of space for creative designs and messages. For an inexpensive, one-sided option, check out our Photo Paper Holiday Cards, printed on Lustre, Glossy, or Pearl Photo Paper for a classic finish.
Pro Tips for Choosing Your Paper Type
- Match the Mood: Elegant designs shine on Cotton or Linen, while bold and colorful designs pop on Semi-Gloss or Pearl.
- Think Texture: Textured papers like Felt, Bamboo, or Linen elevate your cards with a tactile feel.
- Envelope Options: All Postcards come with a complimentary white envelope, but you can upgrade to Merlot, Speckled Kraft, or Pearl White envelopes to match your style.
- Order in Bulk: Take advantage of our discount volume pricing for large orders—perfect for sending out lots of Holiday Cards or Invitations (more info on product page details).
Now that you’re familiar with our paper types, it’s time to design your perfect card. Whether it’s spreading holiday cheer, celebrating a milestone, or making a big announcement, we’ve got you covered with premium paper and endless possibilities.
