Coloured Card and Black Card for Schools: Weights, Sizes and Quantities

Why is card such an important resource in schools?

Some classroom resources are used for specific lessons. Card is different.

Across the schools supported by GLS, coloured card and black card appear everywhere. They are used in art lessons, corridor displays, science projects, celebration events, topic work and classroom organisation.

In fact, many School Business Managers are often surprised by how much card is consumed outside the art curriculum. Display boards are refreshed. Classrooms are redesigned. Assemblies are prepared. Topic weeks arrive. Suddenly, stock that seemed plentiful at the start of term disappears much faster than expected.

This is why card is increasingly viewed as a core classroom resource rather than simply an art supply. Like copier paper, sugar paper and exercise books, it quietly supports a huge amount of day-to-day school activity.

What is the difference between coloured card and coloured paper?

This question comes up regularly. While the two products may appear similar, they serve very different purposes.

Paper is generally chosen when flexibility is needed. Card is selected when strength matters.

Coloured card is typically used for:

• Display backing
• Model making
• Mounting work
• Craft projects
• Signage
• Posters

The additional thickness helps projects remain durable and professional-looking.

Across the schools GLS supports, teachers often use paper when pupils are creating work and card when they want the finished result to last. That distinction can help schools avoid unnecessary spending on heavier materials where they are not required.

What card weight should schools choose?

Card weight is measured in gsm (grams per square metre). The higher the gsm, the thicker and more rigid the card.

160gsm–180gsm card

Suitable for:

• General classroom activities
• Craft projects
• Posters
• Display titles

This is often the most versatile option for everyday school use.

220gsm–250gsm card

Suitable for:

• Model making
• Display mounting
• Durable signage
• Heavier craft activities

Schools often choose this range when projects need additional strength.

300gsm and above

Typically used for:

• Presentation work
• Premium displays
• Structural models
• Special projects

While heavier weights can be useful, they are not always necessary. One lesson GLS frequently shares with schools is that buying the thickest card available does not automatically provide the best value. The most cost-effective choice is usually the weight that matches the intended use.

Why do schools buy black card?

Black card remains one of the most consistently reordered display resources in schools. The reason is simple: it makes everything else stand out. Pupil work, photographs, certificates and display lettering often appear more striking when mounted against a dark background.

Across many schools supported by GLS, black card is used for:

• Display boards
• Corridor exhibitions
• Art presentations
• Photography projects
• Celebration displays

It is also particularly popular during seasonal events and showcase projects where visual impact is important. One trend GLS regularly sees is schools ordering significantly more black card than expected because it is often used throughout the year rather than for isolated projects.

What size card should schools buy?

The most appropriate size depends on how the resource will be used.

A4 card

Ideal for:

• Individual pupil projects
• Craft activities
• Classroom resources
• Small displays

A3 card

Often considered the most versatile size. Suitable for:

• Art activities
• Posters
• Group projects
• Mounting work

Across primary schools, A3 frequently becomes the default choice because it offers flexibility without creating storage challenges.

Large display sheets

Typically used for:

• Display boards
• Corridor displays
• Collaborative projects
• School events

Many schools find larger sheets provide better value when preparing extensive display areas because they reduce joins and create a more professional finish.

How much coloured card does a school need?

This is where purchasing decisions become more strategic. Most schools estimate usage based on planned curriculum activities. However, actual consumption is often driven by wider school life.

One of the most common conversations GLS has with School Business Managers concerns display requirements rather than classroom lessons. Displays often consume more card than teaching activities. Events, open evenings, assemblies and celebration weeks all contribute to usage.

Schools that achieve the strongest value often move away from reactive ordering and instead review annual consumption patterns. This helps them:

• Forecast budgets more accurately
• Avoid emergency orders
• Maintain stock consistency
• Reduce administrative workload

In many schools, card behaves more like an operational resource than a curriculum resource.

How can schools reduce waste when ordering card?

Reducing waste starts with understanding how materials are actually used. Successful schools often:

• Monitor colour usage
• Review annual ordering patterns
• Store card flat to prevent damage
• Standardise display materials
• Match card weight to project requirements

Across the wider Findel family, there is increasing recognition that resource efficiency is about better planning rather than simply buying less. Many schools discover that reviewing usage patterns delivers greater savings than reducing order volumes. The goal is to maximise value without limiting opportunities for pupils.

Which colours are most useful in schools?

While every school has different requirements, some colours tend to be used more frequently than others. Across ordering patterns seen by GLS, the most popular colours often include:

• Black
• Blue
• Green
• Yellow
• Red
• White

These colours work effectively for displays, mounting work and curriculum activities.

One common challenge schools encounter is accumulating large quantities of colours that are rarely used while repeatedly reordering the same popular shades. Reviewing colour usage annually can help schools improve both value and stock availability.

Why does card continue to offer strong value for schools?

Educational resources are increasingly expected to work harder. Schools need materials that support multiple activities, year groups and curriculum areas. Card performs particularly well in this respect.

It is:

• Versatile
• Durable
• Cost-effective
• Easy to store
• Suitable across subjects

Most importantly, it supports learning in ways that extend far beyond art lessons. Whether used for displays, model making, presentations or collaborative projects, coloured card remains one of the most adaptable classroom resources available. That combination of practicality and flexibility explains why it continues to be a staple resource in schools across the UK.