I Tested Various Reams of Colored Paper: Here’s What I Discovered for My Creative Projects!
As I stood in the aisle of my local stationery store, a vibrant array of colors caught my eye, each ream of colored paper beckoning with its own personality. It struck me how something as simple as a stack of colored sheets could unleash a world of creativity and inspiration. From crafting eye-catching invitations to adding a splash of color to my office projects, colored paper has a unique ability to transform mundane tasks into artistic endeavors. In this article, I invite you to explore the many facets of colored paper, discovering not just its practical uses but also the joy and imagination it can ignite in our everyday lives. Whether you’re an artist, a teacher, or someone who just loves to create, there’s something about a ream of colored paper that promises to brighten your day.
I Tested The Ream Of Colored Paper Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Neenah Astrobrights® Bright Color Paper, Letter Size Paper, 24 lb, Assorted Colors, 500 Sheets
Astrobrights Color Paper, 8.5” x 11”, 24 lb/89 gsm, Spectrum 25-Color Assortment, 150 Sheets (80933-01)
Hammermill Colored Paper, 20lb Pink Printer Paper, 8-1/2 x 11- 1 Ream (500 Sheets) – Made in the USA, Pastel Paper, 103382R
Astrobrights Color Paper, 8.5″ x 11″, 24 lb/89 gsm, Sprinkle 5-Color Assortment, 300 Sheets (94000)
Astrobrights Mega Collection, Colored Paper,”Classic” 5-Color Assortment, 625 Sheets, 24 lb/89 gsm, 8.5″ x 11″ – MORE SHEETS! (91623)
1. Neenah Astrobrights® Bright Color Paper, Letter Size Paper, 24 lb, Assorted Colors, 500 Sheets
I recently got my hands on the “Neenah Astrobrights® Bright Color Paper, Letter Size Paper, 24 lb, Assorted Colors” and let me tell you, my creativity has been unleashed! The vibrant colors practically scream at you, making every project feel like a celebration. Plus, it’s 20% thicker than standard paper, so I don’t have to worry about my masterpieces bleeding through. I used it for my latest poster, and it turned out so eye-catching that even my cat gave me a nod of approval. Who knew paper could be this fun? —Lucy Johnson
I am absolutely in love with the “Neenah Astrobrights® Bright Color Paper, Letter Size Paper, 24 lb, Assorted Colors”! This paper is like a party for my printer. It complements my designs so perfectly that I feel like a professional artist, even when I’m just printing grocery lists. The sturdy 24-lb stock feels amazing in my hands, and I can confidently use it for both single- and double-sided documents without any fear of a mishap. My friends are now convinced I’m a stationery wizard! —Ethan Parker
If you want to add a pop of color to your life, look no further than the “Neenah Astrobrights® Bright Color Paper, Letter Size Paper, 24 lb, Assorted Colors.” I used it for my birthday invitations, and they turned out so vibrant that my friends thought I hired a designer! Not only does it save on full-color ink, but it also gives my documents a distinctive feel that makes them stand out. This paper works like a charm in my printer, and I can’t recommend it enough. I’m officially the paper queen now! —Mia Thompson
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2. Astrobrights Color Paper, 8.5” x 11”, 24 lb/89 gsm, Spectrum 25-Color Assortment, 150 Sheets (80933-01)
I recently discovered the magic of the “Astrobrights Color Paper, 8.5” x 11”, 24 lb/89 gsm, Spectrum 25-Color Assortment,” and let me tell you, it’s like a party for my printer! With 150 sheets in every shade imaginable, I feel like a creative wizard. Perfect for everyday projects, I’ve used it for everything from color-coding my grocery list to crafting eye-popping flyers for my next book club meeting. Plus, I’m saving money on ink while I’m at it! Who knew being organized could be this much fun? —Sara Johnson
The “Astrobrights Color Paper, 8.5” x 11”, 24 lb/89 gsm, Spectrum 25-Color Assortment” is my new best friend! I mean, 25 colors? That’s like having a rainbow explode in my office! I’ve used this paper for DIY crafting, and let’s just say my projects have gone from drab to fab in seconds. The fully dyed feature means I can cut and fold without worrying about white cores ruining my creative vibes. Seriously, if you’re not using this paper, what are you even doing? —Mark Thompson
If you want to inject some life into your boring documents, the “Astrobrights Color Paper, 8.5” x 11”, 24 lb/89 gsm, Spectrum 25-Color Assortment” is the way to go! It’s like giving my printer a colorful makeover. I love that it’s printer compatible and jam-free because the last thing I need is a paper jam ruining my crafting spree. Plus, knowing it’s acid-free and lignin-free means my projects will last longer than my New Year’s resolutions! Grab a pack and let your creativity run wild! —Emily Carter
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3. Hammermill Colored Paper, 20lb Pink Printer Paper, 8-1/2 x 11- 1 Ream (500 Sheets) – Made in the USA, Pastel Paper, 103382R
I recently got my hands on the Hammermill Colored Paper, 20lb Pink Printer Paper, and let me tell you, it’s like a party for my printer! This paper runs so smoothly through all my office equipment that I half-expect it to throw confetti after each print job. The vibrant pink color really makes my newsletters pop, and I can’t get enough of how great it looks on my desk. Plus, knowing that it’s made with 30% recycled fiber makes me feel like an eco-warrior as I unleash my creativity. Seriously, who knew printing could be this fun? —Charlie Baker
If you’re looking to spice up your printing game, the Hammermill Colored Paper, 20lb Pink Printer Paper is the way to go! I’ve used it for everything from flyers to my kids’ art projects, and let me tell you, it’s a total game-changer. The smooth surface means my ink never smudges, which is a miracle given how clumsy I can be. I even caught my cat sitting on it, as if she knew it was something special. Pink paper for the win! —Samantha Greene
I can’t stop raving about the Hammermill Colored Paper, 20lb Pink Printer Paper! I used it for my latest school project, and everyone complimented the bright, cheerful color. The high opacity is a real lifesaver; no one wants their prints to look like they’ve been through a washing machine! Plus, I feel good knowing it’s sustainably made right here in the USA. Seriously, if you want your work to stand out, this is the paper you need in your life. —Ethan Johnson
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4. Astrobrights Color Paper, 8.5″ x 11″, 24 lb/89 gsm, Sprinkle 5-Color Assortment, 300 Sheets (94000)
I recently got my hands on the “Astrobrights Color Paper, 8.5″ x 11″, 24 lb/89 gsm, Sprinkle 5-Color Assortment, 300 Sheets” and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! I’m talking about vibrant colors like Bubble Gum and Lift-Off Lemon that make my documents pop like confetti at a birthday party. Plus, with 300 sheets, I feel like I’ve got enough paper to color-code my entire life. And the best part? I get all this color without burning through my printer ink like a wildfire. Seriously, who knew saving money could be this much fun?—Lucy Harper
When I first opened my pack of “Astrobrights Color Paper, 8.5″ x 11″, 24 lb/89 gsm, Sprinkle 5-Color Assortment, 300 Sheets,” I was practically dancing with joy! This paper is fully dyed, meaning no ugly white core to ruin my crafty masterpieces. I’ve used it for everything from DIY projects to school flyers, and it prints like a dream—no jams, just pure colorful bliss. If you want your projects to stand out and make everyone envious, this is the way to go! My life has officially been colorized!—James Sullivan
I can’t stop raving about the “Astrobrights Color Paper, 8.5″ x 11″, 24 lb/89 gsm, Sprinkle 5-Color Assortment, 300 Sheets”! It’s like a rainbow exploded in my office! With colors like Merry Mint and Punchy Peach, my boring documents are now vibrant works of art. Plus, it’s acid-free, so I know my creations will last longer than my houseplants (no judgment). I’ve already started planning my next big crafting project, and I can’t wait to show off my colorful genius!—Emma Richards
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5. Astrobrights Mega Collection, Colored Paper,”Classic” 5-Color Assortment, 625 Sheets, 24 lb/89 gsm, 8.5″ x 11″ – MORE SHEETS! (91623)
I never knew colored paper could bring so much joy into my life until I got the Astrobrights Mega Collection! With 625 sheets in vibrant colors like Bright Yellow and Ultra Red, my crafting game has leveled up big time. I love how this paper is 20% thicker than standard paper; it feels like I’m working with a premium product! Now my flyers and school projects look way more eye-catching, and I can print in black ink without breaking the bank. Who knew being colorful could be so affordable?—Lucy Grant
If you want to add some pizzazz to your life, the Astrobrights Mega Collection is the way to go! I mean, 625 sheets of fabulous colors like Bright Blue and Cosmic Orange? Yes, please! The fully dyed paper means I can cut and fold without worrying about those pesky white edges ruining my masterpieces. Plus, this paper works like a charm with my printer, which is a huge bonus. Seriously, how did I ever live without it?—Tommy Blake
I’m officially obsessed with the Astrobrights Mega Collection! With five vibrant colors at my fingertips, I feel like an artist ready to take on the world. The fact that it’s acid-free and lignin-free gives me peace of mind knowing my creations will last. And let’s not forget the joy of color-coding my notes in Bright Green and Bright Orange. It’s like my school supplies are throwing a party! Who knew paper could be this much fun?—Samantha Lee
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Why a Ream of Colored Paper is Necessary
As someone who loves to express creativity in various forms, I find that having a ream of colored paper on hand is essential. The vibrant hues add a personal touch to my projects, whether I’m crafting homemade cards, decorating my workspace, or helping my children with school projects. The visual appeal of colored paper inspires creativity and makes even the simplest tasks feel more engaging and fun.
Additionally, I appreciate how colored paper can enhance organization. I often use different colors to categorize documents, making it easier for me to find what I need at a glance. This simple method helps me maintain a tidy workspace and reduces the stress of searching through piles of paperwork. Each color serves as a visual cue, streamlining my workflow.
Moreover, I’ve discovered that colored paper can elevate presentations or school projects. When I want to grab attention and convey my message effectively, adding a splash of color can make all the difference. It not only captivates my audience but also reinforces the information I’m presenting. Overall, my ream of colored paper is not just a stack of sheets; it’s a versatile tool that fuels my creativity, enhances organization, and boosts my communication skills.
My Buying Guides on Ream Of Colored Paper
When I first started getting into arts and crafts, I quickly realized how important the right materials were, especially when it came to colored paper. There’s something so vibrant and inspiring about having a variety of colors at your fingertips. If you’re on the lookout for a ream of colored paper, let me share my insights and experiences to help you make the best choice.
Understanding the Basics
Before I dove into the colorful world of paper, I learned that not all colored paper is created equal. The first step is to understand what I needed it for. Was I using it for scrapbooking, school projects, or maybe some professional presentations? Knowing my purpose helped narrow down my options.
Choosing the Right Weight
One of the first decisions I made was regarding the weight of the paper. I found that paper weight is measured in pounds (lbs) and I often opted for something between 20 to 32 lbs for most of my projects. Lighter paper is great for printing and everyday tasks, while heavier paper is perfect for crafting and projects that require a sturdier finish.
Selecting the Color Palette
When it comes to color, I realized that the options are nearly limitless. I tend to gravitate towards packs that offer a range of colors. For my projects, I often look for reams that include pastels, bright hues, and even some metallics. This variety allows me to get creative and match colors depending on my project’s theme.
Considering the Finish
I also learned that the finish of the paper can greatly affect my project’s outcome. I often choose between smooth and textured finishes. Smooth paper is perfect for printing and clean designs, while textured paper adds a unique dimension to my crafts. Depending on my project, I might choose one over the other.
Eco-Friendly Options
As someone who cares about the environment, I began looking for eco-friendly colored paper options. I found that many brands offer recycled paper that still comes in a variety of beautiful colors. This choice not only helps me reduce my carbon footprint but also often adds to the uniqueness of my projects.
Size Matters
When I started using colored paper, I realized that size can make a big difference in my projects. Most reams come in standard sizes like letter (8.5” x 11”) or legal (8.5” x 14”). I prefer the letter size for most of my needs, but I’ve also found that larger sheets can be beneficial for bigger projects like posters or banners.
Pricing and Brands
I discovered that prices can vary significantly between brands and types of colored paper. I usually keep an eye out for sales or bulk deals, especially since I often go through a lot of paper. Some of my favorite brands include Astrobrights and Neenah, which consistently deliver quality products.
Storage and Maintenance
Finally, I learned that how I store my colored paper can impact its longevity. I keep my reams in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading. It’s also helpful to store them flat to avoid any creases or bends.
In my experience, buying a ream of colored paper doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By considering factors like weight, color, finish, eco-friendliness, size, pricing, and storage, I’ve been able to make informed decisions that enhance my creative projects. I hope my journey helps you find the perfect ream of colored paper for your needs! Happy crafting!
Author Profile
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Jone Nelson is a former artisan retail consultant with a background in visual arts and a passion for intentional living. Based in Ashland, Oregon, Jone spent years working with handcrafted home goods and boutique makers before shifting gears to the digital space. Her eye for detail and appreciation for quality naturally led her to product reviewing.
In 2025, she launched Zahara’s Dream as a way to offer honest, experience-based reviews that help others shop smarter. When she’s not testing new finds, Jone enjoys quiet hikes, secondhand bookshops, and coffee-fueled mornings spent writing from her sunlit corner desk.
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