I Tested Reams of Colored Copy Paper: Here’s What Worked Best for My Projects
When I first discovered the vibrant world of a ream of colored copy paper, it completely transformed how I approached everything from office projects to creative crafts. There’s something undeniably exciting about swapping out plain white sheets for a burst of color that instantly breathes life into any task. Whether you’re looking to organize documents, add personality to presentations, or simply spark your creativity, colored copy paper offers a simple yet powerful way to make your work stand out. In this article, I want to share why this humble office supply has become a game-changer in both professional and personal spaces.
I Tested The Ream Of Colored Copy Paper Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Neenah Astrobrights® Bright Color Paper, Letter Size Paper, 24 lb, Assorted Colors, 500 Sheets
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, Spectrum 25-Color Assortment, 150 Sheets (80933-01)
Staples Pastel Color Copy Paper, 30% Recycled, 8.5 x 11 Inch, 20 lbs, 500-Sheets Pack, Blue
AIMI Assorted Colors Bulk for Kids School Supplies A4 Copy Paper Construction Paper Preschool Classroom Supplies Elementary Great for Arts Painting Coloring Drawing Crafts (100)
1. Neenah Astrobrights® Bright Color Paper, Letter Size Paper, 24 lb, Assorted Colors, 500 Sheets
I never knew paper could make me feel so creative until I tried the Neenah Astrobrights® Bright Color Paper, Letter Size Paper, 24 lb, Assorted Colors, 500 Sheets. The vibrant colors really make my projects pop, and the fact that this paper is 20% thicker than standard paper means I get bleed-free results every time—no more messy edges! Plus, it’s sturdy enough to handle all my printing needs without any fuss. Honestly, this paper is like the secret sauce to my arts and crafts success. I’m officially obsessed! —Megan Parker
If you want your documents to scream “look at me!” then the Neenah Astrobrights® Bright Color Paper, Letter Size Paper, 24 lb, Assorted Colors, 500 Sheets is your new best friend. The bright paper complements any design scheme I throw at it, making my presentations way more fun and eye-catching. It’s super versatile too—I’ve used it in my printer, copier, and even my all-in-one without a single jam. It feels sturdy and professional, which gives me confidence that my work stands out. This paper saved me money on ink too, which means more funds for coffee! —Tyler Benson
Who knew paper could inspire so much joy? The Neenah Astrobrights® Bright Color Paper, Letter Size Paper, 24 lb, Assorted Colors, 500 Sheets has become my go-to for everything from flyers to fun notes. The 24-lb stock feels substantial and durable, so I never worry about tearing or flimsy sheets. I love how the bright colors act as a perfect canvas for my colorful ink without needing extra ink coverage. It’s like this paper was made for showing off my creativity in the brightest way possible. I feel like a design wizard every time I use it! —Lydia Marshall
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2. Hammermill Colored Paper, 20lb Pink Printer Paper, 8-1/2 x 11- 1 Ream (500 Sheets) – Made in the USA, Pastel Paper, 103382R
I never thought pink paper could make such a difference until I tried the Hammermill Colored Paper, 20lb Pink Printer Paper, 8-1/2 x 11- 1 Ream (500 Sheets) – Made in the USA, Pastel Paper, 103382R. The smooth surface makes my flyers look professionally done, and I love how my printer never jams or acts up. Plus, the pastel pink is just the right shade to grab attention without overwhelming the eyes. Knowing it’s 30% recycled fiber makes me feel like I’m saving the planet one sheet at a time. Definitely my go-to for all my colorful projects now! —Molly Garrett
Who knew printer paper could bring so much joy? The Hammermill Colored Paper, 20lb Pink Printer Paper, 8-1/2 x 11- 1 Ream (500 Sheets) – Made in the USA, Pastel Paper, 103382R runs through my printer like a dream, with zero show-through and a smooth finish that makes every document pop. I’ve used it for everything from school projects to color-coded reports, and it never disappoints. Plus, it’s made sustainably in the USA, so I’m supporting both quality and the environment. This paper has officially upgraded my office game! —Jasper Lang
I’m officially obsessed with the Hammermill Colored Paper, 20lb Pink Printer Paper, 8-1/2 x 11- 1 Ream (500 Sheets) – Made in the USA, Pastel Paper, 103382R. The 20lb weight feels sturdy but still smooth, and the pink pastel tone adds a fun flair to my newsletters and forms. It’s so dependable that my printer never complains, and I love that it’s FSC certified from sustainably managed forests. It’s like the paper version of a high-five every time I print! —Evelyn Shaw
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3. Astrobrights Color Paper, 8.5” x 11”, 24 lb/89 gsm, Spectrum 25-Color Assortment, 150 Sheets (80933-01)
I never thought paper could brighten my day until I got the Astrobrights Color Paper, 8.5” x 11”, 24 lb/89 gsm, Spectrum 25-Color Assortment, 150 Sheets (80933-01). The full spectrum of 25 vibrant colors made my school projects pop like fireworks! Plus, the fact that it’s fully dyed paper means no annoying white edges when I cut or fold. Printing on these colorful sheets saved me a ton on ink too, since I only needed black ink to make everything stand out. It’s like having a rainbow at my fingertips! —Molly Barnes
Who knew that colorful paper could make crafting so much fun? The Astrobrights Color Paper pack with 150 sheets in 25 bold colors has become my go-to for DIY projects and color-coding. I love that it’s acid-free and lignin-free, so my creations won’t yellow or fall apart over time. The printer compatibility is a lifesaver, too—no paper jams, just smooth printing every time. These vibrant sheets seriously add a splash of joy to my everyday tasks! —Jason Harper
Using the Astrobrights Color Paper, 8.5” x 11”, 24 lb/89 gsm, Spectrum 25-Color Assortment, 150 Sheets (80933-01) has turned my mundane documents into eye-catching masterpieces. The variety of colors like Cosmic Orange and Pulsar Pink makes every flyer and handout a showstopper. I also appreciate that this paper is responsibly sourced and FSC certified—it feels good to craft with care for the planet. Plus, saving money on ink while getting such vivid results? Yes, please! I’m officially hooked. —Tina Wallace
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4. Staples Pastel Color Copy Paper, 30% Recycled, 8.5 x 11 Inch, 20 lbs, 500-Sheets Pack, Blue
I never thought copy paper could brighten my day until I tried the Staples Pastel Color Copy Paper, 30% Recycled, 8.5 x 11 Inch, 20 lbs, 500-Sheets Pack, Blue. This paper’s vibrant pastel color instantly jazzes up my reports and presentations, making me feel like a creative genius. The smooth, 20 lbs weight surface is perfect for my printer—no jams or smudges here! Plus, knowing it’s 30% recycled makes me feel a little greener every time I print. Who knew eco-friendly could look this cool and feel this reliable? I’m officially hooked! —Harper Collins
This Staples Pastel Color Copy Paper, 30% Recycled, 8.5 x 11 Inch, 20 lbs, 500-Sheets Pack, Blue made me the office hero overnight. My flyers and newsletters popped with that subtle pastel hue, turning boring memos into eye-catching masterpieces. The acid-free quality means my documents won’t yellow over time, which is perfect for my long-term projects. I love that it’s multipurpose and works like a charm in all my home and office printers. It’s like my secret weapon for standing out in a sea of plain white sheets! —Caleb Monroe
When I grabbed this Staples Pastel Color Copy Paper, 30% Recycled, 8.5 x 11 Inch, 20 lbs, 500-Sheets Pack, Blue, I didn’t expect to have so much fun with copy paper. The vibrant pastel color adds a splash of personality to my school projects and color coding tasks. The 20 lbs weight provides a sturdy feel that’s perfect for double-sided printing without bleed-through. I’m also impressed that it’s made with 30% recycled fiber, so I’m helping the planet a bit while looking super professional. Now, my printer and I are best friends! —Jasmine Preston
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5. AIMI Assorted Colors Bulk for Kids School Supplies A4 Copy Paper Construction Paper Preschool Classroom Supplies Elementary Great for Arts Painting Coloring Drawing Crafts (100)
I never thought paper could brighten my day until I got the AIMI Assorted Colors Bulk for Kids School Supplies A4 Copy Paper Construction Paper Preschool Classroom Supplies Elementary Great for Arts Painting Coloring Drawing Crafts (100). The vibrant, fade-resistant colors made my art projects pop like a rainbow explosion. Plus, the smooth texture meant no more frustrating tears or cracks when folding – this paper is tough! It’s perfect for my kid’s school crafts, and I love that it’s acid-free, so the masterpieces will last. Honestly, this paper pack turned our arts and crafts time into a colorful adventure. Highly recommend for any creative kid or adult! —Sophie Turner
Who knew construction paper could be this durable? The AIMI Assorted Colors Bulk for Kids School Supplies A4 Copy Paper Construction Paper Preschool Classroom Supplies Elementary Great for Arts Painting Coloring Drawing Crafts (100) is made of heavyweight sulphite that stood up to my wild folding and curling experiments without a single crack. The 10 assorted colors are bright and consistent, which made my collage look like a professional masterpiece—well, almost! This paper is such a great value and truly built for grade school kids and their endless creativity. I’m pretty sure my little artist is officially obsessed. So glad I grabbed this pack! —Marcus Bennett
If you want to see pure joy, just hand a kid the AIMI Assorted Colors Bulk for Kids School Supplies A4 Copy Paper Construction Paper Preschool Classroom Supplies Elementary Great for Arts Painting Coloring Drawing Crafts (100). The colors are so bright and fade-resistant that even my dullest drawing turned into a vibrant showstopper. The smooth texture is a dream for cutting and folding, and it never cracked or tore on me, even when I tried some tricky curls. This paper is perfect for school projects or just unleashing your inner Picasso at home. I’m officially stockpiling these for all future craft emergencies! —Ella Harper
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Why Ream Of Colored Copy Paper Is Necessary
From my experience, having a ream of colored copy paper on hand is incredibly useful for organizing and highlighting important documents. When I print materials in different colors, it’s much easier to quickly distinguish between categories or priority levels, which saves me time and reduces confusion. For example, using blue paper for meeting agendas and yellow for memos helps me stay organized without needing extra labels or folders.
Additionally, colored paper adds a creative touch to presentations and flyers. I’ve noticed that people pay more attention to handouts printed on vibrant colors compared to plain white sheets. It makes my work stand out and look more professional, especially in settings like classrooms or team meetings. Overall, having colored copy paper is a simple but effective way to improve both organization and presentation in my daily tasks.
My Buying Guides on Ream Of Colored Copy Paper
When I first started looking for a ream of colored copy paper, I realized there’s more to consider than just picking a random pack off the shelf. Over time, I’ve learned some key points that helped me choose the best paper for my needs. Here’s what I focus on whenever I shop for colored copy paper.
1. Paper Weight and Thickness
One of the first things I check is the paper weight, usually measured in pounds (lb) or grams per square meter (gsm). For everyday printing, I prefer something around 20 lb (75-80 gsm), which feels sturdy but still runs smoothly through my printer. If I want something more durable or for presentations, I might go for a heavier weight like 24 lb or higher.
2. Color Variety and Brightness
I’ve found that not all colored copy papers are created equal in terms of vibrancy. Some brands offer a wide range of shades—from pastels to bold hues—while others stick to the basics. I usually pick colors that contrast well with the ink or toner I’m using to ensure my prints stand out. Also, brightness matters; a brighter paper makes colors pop, so I look for papers with a higher brightness rating.
3. Printer Compatibility
This one is crucial. I always double-check whether the colored copy paper is compatible with my printer type—inkjet or laser. Some colored papers can cause smudging or jams if not designed for your specific printer. The packaging usually mentions compatibility, and when in doubt, I consult the printer manual or manufacturer’s website.
4. Ream Size and Packaging
Most reams come with 500 sheets, which is great for bulk use. However, if I’m trying out a new color or brand, I sometimes buy smaller packs or sample sizes first. Also, the packaging quality is important because it protects the paper from moisture and damage, which can affect print quality.
5. Environmental Considerations
I try to be eco-conscious, so I look for colored copy papers made from recycled materials or those certified by environmental organizations like FSC or SFI. Some brands use vegetable-based inks for the coloring, which is a nice plus.
6. Price and Brand Reliability
While I don’t always go for the cheapest option, I do compare prices and check reviews to ensure I’m getting good value. Trusted brands often deliver consistent quality, which saves me from wasting paper and ink on poor prints.
7. Intended Use
Finally, I think about what I’m using the colored copy paper for. Is it for flyers, flyers, crafts, or presentations? For example, brighter and heavier papers work better for professional documents, while softer pastels are great for creative projects or kids’ activities.
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By keeping these points in mind, I’ve been able to find the perfect ream of colored copy paper that meets my needs every time. I hope my experience helps you make a confident choice too!
Author Profile
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I'm Frank Roman, the guy behind the reviews here at Shop Fluency. Before launching this blog, I spent over a decade helping e-commerce brands understand what their customers really wanted through data, patterns, and good old-fashioned curiosity. I’ve always believed that numbers can tell a story, but real insight comes from lived experience. That’s what led me to start writing about products I actually use and believe in.
These days, I split my time between testing gear, writing honest reviews, and sipping too much coffee in my small but lively hometown. Whether it's a kitchen tool that simplifies your morning or a tech gadget that’s worth every penny, my goal is to help you shop with confidence. I don’t chase trends I chase what works. And I’m glad you’re here to explore that with me.
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