What Is Cartridge Paper?

At CartridgesDirect, we deal with a great assortment of printer paper types, ranging from matte and glossy photo paper to adhesive label paper and even specialist papers and materials for sublimation printers. We also sell cartridge paper, too. But you may be asking yourself, 'What is cartridge paper?’ or ‘How is cartridge paper different from normal paper?’. 

So, what is cartridge paper? Cartridge paper is not a commonly used type of printing paper. However, that is not to say that cartridge paper is not of any value. In fact, you might be pleasantly surprised by how often you find yourself using cartridge paper on a routine basis! 

For example, we bet you never knew that cartridge paper is the most common paper type to be used in sketch pads and artists' notebooks? Fun fact: cartridge paper is also commonly found in flip books used by animators!

In essence, cartridge paper is well known for being a thick, textured, high-quality paper type that’s used by artists working in a range of mediums. As it’s most likely to be used by visual artists and designers or concept artists, cartridge paper is also often referred to as ‘drawing paper’, but there are other valuable uses for cartridge paper.

• What is cartridge paper used for?
• What GSM is cartridge paper?
• Types of Cartridge Paper
  • Lightweight Cartridge Paper
  • Medium-Weight Cartridge Paper
  • Heavyweight Cartridge Paper
    • Smooth vs. Textured Cartridge Paper
• How To Select the Right Cartridge Paper for Your Project
• Can you print on cartridge paper?

What is cartridge paper used for?

As we mentioned earlier, cartridge paper is most commonly used in the production of paper-based visual arts. The unique, grainy texture of this paper makes it an ideal surface for a wide variety of pigments, including charcoal, lead, watercolours, calligraphy inks, and oil paints, amongst others. In a lot of ways, cartridge paper has come to be viewed as a highly convenient alternative to the traditional easel and canvas.

While you won't find cartridge paper inside laser printers, you will certainly find this paper at your nearest art studio or creative room. As well as being used for sketching and design purposes, cartridge paper is also often used as a presentation paper and in the production of posters and pamphlets of varying sizes. 

Alongside being heavily utilised by artists, illustrators, and animators, cartridge paper may also find its way into professional offices and creative agencies, like architecture firms, interior design agencies, and software development companies, to name a few.

What GSM is cartridge paper?

As this paper type has been developed for heavy-duty work in studio spaces, cartridge paper generally has a higher GSM (or grams per square meter) than a lot of other paper types. It’s common for cartridge paper to be at least 100 gsm; however, most sketchbooks, easel pads, and drawing boards will be fitted with cartridge paper that’s at least 130 gsm or even a thicker 160 gsm. 

Our thickest cartridge paper here at CartridgesDirect is Epson’s Matte Heavyweight 167 gsm, which is a perfect texture and thickness to produce high-quality promotional posters, signs, or any other form of notice you’d like to hang up in your home or office space for a prolonged period of time. To understand just how thick 160 gsm can be, all you have to do is consider the fact that traditional printer paper averages at around 70-80 gsm, meaning cartridge paper at its minimum thickness is already 25% thicker than traditional printer paper. 

At its maximum thickness, however, cartridge paper can be over double the thickness and weight of the paper in your printer. You can buy cartridge paper by the ream in an online order to secure a gsm that works for you and your wider home, office, or studio space.

Types of Cartridge Paper

Cartridge paper comes in a variety of weights, textures, and finishes, making it suitable for everything from casual sketching to professional artwork. Understanding the main types will help you choose the best option for your needs.

Lightweight Cartridge Paper (90–120 gsm)

Lightweight cartridge paper is ideal for everyday drawing and note-taking. It works well with drawing supplies like pencils, charcoal, and light ink but may warp or bleed if used with heavy wet media.

Best for:

• Sketching and practice drawings
• Pencil, graphite, and light pen work
• Students and beginners

Medium-Weight Cartridge Paper (130–170 gsm)

This is the most versatile type of cartridge paper. It offers a good balance between durability and flexibility, allowing it to handle a wider range of media without excessive buckling.

Best for:

• Coloured pencils and markers
• Ink, fine liners, and light washes
• General art and design projects

Heavyweight Cartridge Paper (180–220 gsm+)

Heavyweight cartridge paper is thicker and more robust, making it suitable for more demanding techniques. While not a replacement for watercolour paper, it can tolerate light water-based media and precise cutting.

Best for:

• Mixed media projects
• Light watercolour and gouache
• Final artwork and presentation pieces

Smooth vs. Textured Cartridge Paper

Cartridge paper can also vary in surface texture. Smooth paper provides clean, crisp lines, while textured paper adds depth and grip for layered or expressive work.

• Smooth: Ideal for technical drawings, pens, and detailed illustrations
• Textured: Better for charcoal, pastels, and expressive sketching

How To Select the Right Cartridge Paper for Your Project

Choosing the right cartridge paper depends on how you plan to use it. Considering a few key factors can help ensure the best results.

Consider Your Medium

The type of material you’ll be working with is the most important factor. Dry media projects generally require lighter paper, while wet or layered media need thicker, more absorbent sheets.

Think About Durability

If your work needs to be erased frequently, transported, or displayed, a thicker cartridge paper will resist tearing and creasing better than lightweight options.

Match the Paper to Your Purpose

Not every project needs premium paper. Practice sketches and drafts can use lighter paper, while final pieces or client work benefit from heavier, higher-quality cartridge paper.

Check Compatibility with Printers

If you plan to print onto cartridge paper, ensure the weight is compatible with your printer. Most home printers handle paper up to around 160–180 gsm, while heavier stock may require a professional printer.

Balance Quality & Budget

Cartridge paper is available at a wide range of price points. For everyday use, mid-range options offer excellent performance without unnecessary cost, while premium paper is best reserved for finished work.

Can you print on cartridge paper?

And now to answer the question that all you avid printer users may be eagerly awaiting an answer to: can you print on cartridge paper? Considering how thick cartridge paper can be, you may very well be thinking that this paper type won’t meld well with your home or office printer.

You may be surprised to hear, however, that many printer models are perfectly capable of printing on cartridge paper with minimal fuss. The heightened texture of cartridge paper can actually provide printer users with an impressively high-quality print job that looks and feels superb.

As we stated earlier, cartridge paper is also very commonly used in the production of posters, signs, and pamphlets. In fact, many A3 printers and photo printers have special print configurations designed just for cartridge paper and other thicker paper types like photo paper and cardstock.

Of course, if you’re looking to print pamphlets or brochures, you’ll want to opt for a cartridge paper with a weight of around 110-125 gsm, as anything nearing 150 gsm may be cumbersome to fold.

Get creative today with cartridge paper from CartridgesDirect!

Cartridge paper may not be the most common paper found in everyday home printers, but its versatility, durability, and professional finish make it an excellent choice for artists, designers, educators, and businesses alike. From sketching and mixed media artwork to presentations, posters, and light printing, cartridge paper offers a level of quality that standard printer paper simply can’t match.

Whether you’re experimenting with new creative techniques, producing eye-catching signage, or looking for a thicker, more premium paper for your next project, cartridge paper is well worth considering.

Explore our full range of cartridge paper and specialist printing supplies online at CartridgesDirect today. With multiple weights, sizes, and trusted brands available, you’ll find the right paper to suit your printer, your project, and your budget.