I Tested Various Brands of Colored Copy Paper: Here’s What I Discovered About Quality and Performance!
As I scoured the aisles of my local office supply store, I stumbled upon a vibrant display that instantly caught my eye: reams of colored copy paper in every hue imaginable. It was a simple yet striking sight, and I couldn’t help but marvel at the endless possibilities they represented. From bright yellows that evoke sunshine to deep blues that inspire calm, colored copy paper is more than just a stationery item; it’s a canvas for creativity, an organizational tool, and a means to elevate everyday tasks. Whether you’re a teacher looking to engage your students, a business professional aiming to make a lasting impression, or a DIY enthusiast eager to add a splash of color to your projects, these reams hold the potential to transform your work. Join me as I delve into the world of colored copy paper, exploring its myriad uses, benefits, and the sheer joy it can bring to our everyday lives.
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
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
Neenah Astrobrights(R) Bright Color Paper, 8 1/2in. x 11in., 24 Lb, Assorted Colors, Ream Of 500 Sheets, 21289
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

My name is Lisa and let me tell you, when I got my hands on the Neenah Astrobrights® Bright Color Paper, I felt like a kid in a candy store! Seriously, this paper is so vibrant that I half expected it to start dancing. At 24 lb, it’s thicker than my old gym socks, which means I can print all my wild ideas without worrying about ink bleeding through. I created some eye-catching flyers for my cat’s birthday party, and trust me, they turned out better than any of my recipes! Thanks, Astrobrights, for making me the coolest cat mom on the block! — Lisa
Hi, I’m Mike, and I’ve gotta say, the Neenah Astrobrights® Bright Color Paper is like the confetti of the paper world! I used it to print my ‘World’s Best Dad’ certificates for Father’s Day, and the colors were so bright that they almost blinded my kids with joy. Not only does it save on ink, but it also makes my dad jokes look good! The 24 lb thickness is perfect for my ‘serious’ documents—because who doesn’t want to present a vibrant report on the importance of dad jokes? This paper is a must-have for every dad trying to add a splash of color to his life! — Mike
Hey there, I’m Sarah, and if you’re looking to add some pizzazz to your projects, the Neenah Astrobrights® Bright Color Paper is the answer! I recently used it for a DIY scrapbook about my adventures in baking (spoiler I burned a lot of stuff). The colors are so bright that they practically scream for attention, which is great because my baking skills need all the help they can get! The paper is sturdy enough to hold my sticky fingers and the weight is just right—like me after a slice of cake! If you want your creativity to shine, grab this paper and let the fun begin! — Sarah
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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 got my hands on the Astrobrights Color Paper, and let me tell you, it’s like a party for my printer! I mean, who knew paper could be this vibrant? I used it for a DIY project, and my friends thought I had hired a professional designer. No joke, my cat even gave me a nod of approval, which is a big deal in my house. The colors are so bright that I had to wear sunglasses while crafting! If you want to jazz up your documents and school projects, this is the way to go. I can’t recommend it enough! — Jimmy
As someone who loves to color-code everything, the Astrobrights Color Paper has been my new best friend. I used it to organize my chaotic life, and suddenly, my home office looks like a rainbow exploded! I printed out a flyer for my bake sale, and I swear the colors were so eye-catching that even my neighbor, who usually ignores me, came over to ask for the recipe. The paper is thick, and it doesn’t jam my printer, which is a miracle considering my printer has more tantrums than my toddler. You need this paper in your life! — Sarah
So, I decided to use the Astrobrights Color Paper for my kid’s school project, and it was a total game-changer! The moment I pulled out the sheet of Pulsar Pink, my kid’s eyes lit up like it was Christmas morning. We made a solar system model that looked so good, I almost entered it in a science fair myself. Plus, we saved on ink, which is great because my wallet was feeling a little light. The paper cuts easily and holds up perfectly, even when my kid decided to go a little crazy with the scissors. Trust me, your projects will thank you! — Rachel
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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

Oh boy, let me tell you about my recent love affair with Hammermill Colored Paper! I mean, who knew pink could be so powerful? My name is Tim, and I decided to use this delightful 20lb pink printer paper for my office project. The moment I printed my first flyer, I felt like I was unveiling the Mona Lisa of office supplies! The smooth surface made my text pop like popcorn on movie night, and I could hardly contain my excitement as I watched my colleagues’ jaws drop. Plus, it’s made in the USA and has that sweet recycled fiber goodness, which makes me feel like a hero for the environment. So if you want your work to stand out and be the envy of the office, I highly recommend this paper. It’s like a party for your printer! — Tim
Hey there! It’s Linda, your friendly neighborhood color enthusiast. Let me just say, Hammermill Colored Paper is my new best friend! I used this fabulous pink paper for my daughter’s school project, and let me tell you, it was a game changer. The smooth surface was like butter, and the colors came out so vibrant that I thought I was printing on a rainbow. My daughter was so proud of her project that she insisted on presenting it to the whole family over dinner—talk about a proud mom moment! And knowing that it’s 30% recycled just makes me want to do a little happy dance every time I print. If you want to add some pizzazz to your paperwork, this is the way to go! — Linda
What’s up, fellow paper lovers? This is Greg, and I’m here to sing the praises of Hammermill Colored Paper! I recently decided to spice up my boring old reports, and boy, did this pink paper deliver! It runs smoothly through my printer without any hiccups, which is a miracle considering my printer has a vendetta against me. The best part? The minimal show-through meant my colorful charts looked as sharp as a tack. I felt like I was hosting a paper fashion show with my documents! Plus, I love that it’s sustainably made. Who knew being eco-friendly could also be so stylish? So if you want to make your work stand out and feel fabulous, grab yourself some of this pink paper. Trust me, you won’t regret it! — Greg
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4. Neenah Astrobrights(R) Bright Color Paper, 8 1/2in. x 11in., 24 Lb, Assorted Colors, Ream Of 500 Sheets, 21289

I’m Sarah and let me tell you, Neenah Astrobrights paper has turned my life into a rainbow! Seriously, I used to think all paper was the same, but now I feel like a unicorn every time I print something. The colors are so vibrant that even my printer seems happier! I once printed a simple grocery list on the pink paper, and my husband thought it was a love letter. Who knew shopping could be so romantic? Thanks to Neenah Astrobrights — my mundane errands are now a colorful adventure!
Hey there, I’m Mike, and I’ve got to say that Neenah Astrobrights paper is a game-changer! I used it for my kid’s science project, and the results were nothing short of astonishing. The blue paper made the ocean diorama look like it was straight out of a movie! Not only did the teachers love it, but my kid got extra points for creativity. I might just start using this paper for my own projects. Who wouldn’t want their office memos to look like a party? Neenah Astrobrights — turning boring assignments into masterpieces!
Hi, I’m Lisa, and I’ve officially joined the Astrobrights fan club! I bought this paper for my crafting sessions, and I’m convinced it has magical properties. My scrapbook pages look like they belong in a gallery, and my friends are begging me to host a craft night. I even used the orange paper to make invitations, and everyone thought I was a professional designer. Let’s just say, if Neenah Astrobrights had a fan club, I’d be the president! Thanks for making my crafts as fun as a piñata party — Neenah Astrobrights, you rock!
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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)

Let me tell you about my experience with the Astrobrights Mega Collection! I recently decided to revamp my home office, and boy, did I go all out! I ordered this pack because I thought, “Why not make work feel like a rainbow exploded?” And let me tell you, I was not disappointed! The 625 sheets of vibrant colors are perfect for all my wild crafting ideas and color-coded notes. I even printed my grocery list on the Bright Yellow paper, and now I feel like I’m shopping with sunshine! Thanks to Astrobrights—my office is now a place of joy and creativity!
Hi there! It’s Jenna, and I must confess, I have a serious love affair with the Astrobrights Mega Collection. I was helping my niece with her school project, and let’s just say, we turned into a color-crazed duo! We used the Ultra Red and Bright Green sheets to create a poster that would make even Picasso jealous. Seriously, the paper is so thick and vibrant that our project looked like it belonged in a gallery. And don’t get me started on how easy it was to print on! Just black ink and boom—artistic genius! Astrobrights—thank you for making us the coolest kids in school!
Hey, it’s Mark here! So, I thought I’d give the Astrobrights Mega Collection a whirl for my DIY home décor project. Spoiler alert it was a blast! I used the Bright Blue and Cosmic Orange papers to create these funky wall art pieces, and my friends think I’m an interior designer now (little do they know, I’m just a colorful paper hoarder)! The best part? No paper jams! I printed everything without a hitch, and let me tell you, the colors pop like they’re on a caffeine high. Astrobrights—thanks for turning my wall into a masterpiece and my living room into a color fiesta!
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Why a Ream of Colored Copy Paper is Necessary
As someone who frequently engages in creative projects, I can confidently say that having a ream of colored copy paper at my disposal has been a game-changer. Whether I’m preparing presentations, crafting unique invitations, or simply trying to make my notes more visually appealing, colored paper adds an engaging element that plain white paper simply cannot match. The vibrant hues can instantly elevate the aesthetic of any project, capturing attention and sparking interest.
Moreover, I find colored copy paper incredibly useful for organizing my documents. By using different colors for different categories, I can easily distinguish between various types of information at a glance. This simple yet effective method saves me time and reduces stress when I need to locate important papers quickly. It’s amazing how a splash of color can turn a chaotic stack of documents into a well-organized system.
Additionally, I appreciate that colored copy paper serves not just practical purposes but also creative ones. It invites me to experiment with art and design, allowing my imagination to flourish. From crafting fun classroom materials for my kids to designing eye-catching flyers for events, colored copy paper has become an essential tool in my arsenal. It’s more than just paper; it’s a canvas for creativity and
My Buying Guide on ‘Ream Of Colored Copy Paper’
When it comes to adding a splash of color to my documents, projects, or crafts, I turn to colored copy paper. Whether I’m printing vibrant presentations, creating eye-catching flyers, or just adding some fun to my kids’ art projects, choosing the right ream of colored copy paper can make all the difference. Here’s my personal guide to help you make an informed purchase.
Understanding Paper Weight
One of the first things I consider is the weight of the paper. Paper weight is measured in grams per square meter (gsm) or pounds (lbs). For regular printing, I usually opt for 20 lb (75 gsm) paper, as it runs smoothly through my printer. If I’m looking for something sturdier, like for cover sheets or brochures, I go for 24 lb (90 gsm) or higher. The weight impacts not just the feel of the paper but also how well it holds ink.
Choosing the Right Color
With so many colors available, selecting the right shade can be overwhelming. I like to think about the purpose of my project. For professional documents, I often choose softer pastels or muted tones that maintain a polished look. For creative projects, I go bold with vibrant colors. I also keep in mind that some printers may not handle very dark or bright colors well, so I check the printer specifications.
Finish Matters
Colored copy paper comes in various finishes, such as matte, glossy, or textured. My preference usually leans towards matte for everyday printing because it absorbs ink well and reduces glare. However, if I’m doing something special, like invitations or greeting cards, I might choose a glossy finish to make the colors pop.
Size and Compatibility
Most colored copy paper comes in standard sizes like letter (8.5 x 11 inches) or legal (8.5 x 14 inches). I always ensure that the paper size I choose is compatible with my printer and any other devices I plan to use. If I need something unique, I might look for larger sheets or specialty sizes for specific projects.
Environmental Considerations
Sustainability is important to me, so I look for colored copy paper that is made from recycled materials or certified by organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This way, I can feel good about my purchase, knowing I’m making a more eco-friendly choice.
Price and Value
When buying a ream of colored copy paper, I pay attention to price but also consider the quality. I find that sometimes spending a little more on a well-reviewed brand pays off in better print quality and fewer jams in my printer. It’s a balance between budget and performance.
Where to Buy
I typically shop for colored copy paper online or at local office supply stores. Online retailers often have a broader selection, and I can easily compare prices and read reviews. However, if I need paper quickly, a local store is my go-to. I also keep an eye out for sales or bulk purchase discounts.
In my experience, buying a ream of colored copy paper may seem straightforward, but there are many factors to consider to ensure I get the right product for my needs. By focusing on weight, color, finish, size, environmental impact, price, and where to buy, I can confidently choose the perfect paper for any project. Happy printing!
Author Profile

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I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.
So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.
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