Cardstock Settings by Weight
Not all cardstock is the same. The weight (measured in pounds or GSM) determines which setting to use. Here's a complete reference:
| Cardstock Type | Weight | Design Space Setting | Mat |
|---|---|---|---|
| Copy paper | 20lb / 75gsm | Copy Paper | 🔵 LightGrip |
| Light cardstock | 50-60lb / 135-160gsm | Light Cardstock | 🔵 LightGrip |
| Medium cardstock | 65-80lb / 175-215gsm | Medium Cardstock - 80lb | 🟢 StandardGrip |
| Heavy cardstock | 100-110lb / 270-300gsm | Heavy Cardstock - 100lb | 🟢 StandardGrip |
| Glitter cardstock | Varies | Glitter Cardstock | 🟢 StandardGrip |
| Poster board | ~100lb | Poster Board | 🟢 StandardGrip |
💡 Don't know the weight? Most craft store cardstock is 65lb. Start with "Medium Cardstock" and adjust from there.
Fix: Cardstock is Tearing
Tearing is the most common cardstock problem. Here's what causes it and how to fix each:
🔪 Cause: Dull blade
A dull blade pushes through paper instead of slicing cleanly, causing tears.
Fix: Clean blade by stabbing into aluminum foil ball 10-15 times, or replace it. Cardstock dulls blades faster than vinyl.
⚡ Cause: Pressure too high
Too much pressure forces the blade through aggressively, tearing delicate areas.
Fix: Reduce pressure. Try "Less" or "Default" instead of "More." Do a test cut first.
📌 Cause: Mat not sticky enough
If paper shifts during cutting, it tears instead of cutting cleanly.
Fix: Clean your mat or use a stickier one. Use a brayer to press cardstock firmly onto the mat before cutting.
🔍 Cause: Design too intricate
Tiny details and thin lines are difficult to cut in paper — it just tears.
Fix: Increase design size, use a simpler design, or switch to heavier cardstock that holds up better.
🧹 Cause: Debris in blade housing
Paper dust builds up in the blade housing, preventing smooth blade rotation.
Fix: Remove blade, blow out housing with compressed air, clean any visible debris.
Fix: Not Cutting Through
If your Cricut is only scoring the surface instead of cutting all the way through:
Try These Fixes (In Order):
- Increase pressure: Add "More Pressure" in Design Space, or bump up to the next heavier material setting.
- Do a second pass: When it asks if your cut looks good, select "No" to run another pass without moving the mat.
- Check blade depth: The blade should extend slightly past the housing. Adjust the dial on the blade housing if needed.
- Replace the blade: A new blade makes a huge difference. Blades are cheap — don't be stingy.
- Flatten your cardstock: Curled or warped paper doesn't cut evenly. Store flat and press with books if needed.
Fix: Blade is Dragging
Dragging means the blade is pushing through the paper instead of slicing, leaving rough edges and potentially tearing the design.
Check These:
- • Is the blade dull? (most common)
- • Is there debris in the housing?
- • Is the mat sticky enough?
- • Is the blade seated properly?
Quick Fixes:
- • Stab blade into foil ball to clean
- • Remove blade, blow out housing
- • Use brayer to secure paper to mat
- • Remove and reseat blade firmly
Pro Tips for Perfect Cardstock Cuts
🎯 Always do a test cut
Before cutting a full project, use the test cut feature in Design Space. Wastes a tiny bit of cardstock, saves entire projects.
📏 Use a brayer
Roll a brayer (or rolling pin) over your cardstock after placing it on the mat. This ensures perfect adhesion and prevents shifting.
⬇️ Start lighter, increase if needed
It's easier to run a second pass than to fix a torn project. Start with less pressure and increase if cuts aren't clean.
🔄 Rotate your mat
Don't always cut in the same area. Rotate where you place cardstock so the mat wears evenly and stays stickier longer.
❄️ Cold room? Warm your cardstock
Cold cardstock can be stiffer and more prone to tearing. Let it come to room temperature before cutting.
📦 Store cardstock flat
Curled or warped cardstock doesn't stick to the mat properly. Store flat in a dry place, away from humidity.
Best Cardstock Brands for Cricut
Not all cardstock is created equal. Here are the brands that crafters consistently recommend:
🏆 Top Picks
- Recollections (Michaels) — Affordable, consistent, wide color range
- Neenah — Premium quality, smooth finish, great for invitations
- Bazzill — Durable, lots of textures, holds up to intricate cuts
- Cricut brand — Designed for Cricut, reliable but pricier
⚠️ Avoid for Intricate Cuts
- Dollar store cardstock — Inconsistent thickness, tears easily
- Heavy texture — Texture interferes with blade
- Foil cardstock — Needs different blade (fine point, not standard)
- Cheap glitter cardstock — Glitter clogs blade
💡 Pro tip: 65lb smooth cardstock is the sweet spot for most projects. Heavy enough to hold up, light enough to cut cleanly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What setting should I use for cardstock on Cricut?
For standard 65lb cardstock, use "Medium Cardstock - 80lb." For heavier stock, use "Heavy Cardstock - 100lb." For light paper, use "Light Cardstock."
Why does my Cricut tear cardstock?
Usually a dull blade, too much pressure, or mat not sticky enough. Clean/replace blade, reduce pressure, and ensure mat holds the paper firmly.
Can I use the deep cut blade for cardstock?
No — the deep cut blade is for thick materials like chipboard and leather. For cardstock, use the standard fine point blade.
How often should I replace my blade for cardstock?
Cardstock dulls blades faster than vinyl. Replace when you notice tearing or rough edges, typically every few projects or when cuts stop being clean.