Quick answer: The terms that matter when buying or making cards: gsm (paper weight), V-fold and box fold (mechanisms), die-cut (machine-cut shapes), non-machineable (needs hand cancellation), and keepsake grade (built to display, not discard).
Greeting card glossary is one of those questions that seems simple until you try to answer it. Here is the clear version, with the terminology, mechanics and etiquette explained.
Paper & Print Terms
- GSM: grams per square meter - paper weight; 250gsm+ is keepsake grade
- Card stock vs cover stock: the same thing, sold by different stores
- Die-cut: shapes cut by machine die, crisp and repeatable
- Laser cut: fine, lace-like cutting for premium designs
- Foil stamping: metallic foil pressed onto the surface
Mechanism Terms
- V-fold: two angled cuts making a scene lean toward the opener
- Box/parallel fold: vertical cuts forming cubes and layered stages
- Pull-tab: a slider that animates part of the scene
- Slice form: interlocking cut pieces forming 3D shapes
Mailing Terms
- Non-machineable: too rigid or thick for sorting machines - needs extra postage
- Hand cancellation: post office marks by hand so the card isn't run through machines
- Forever stamp: first-class postage at today's price, always valid
Related Guides
Congratulations Messages · How to Sign a Card · How to Choose a Pop Up Card
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a pop up card fit in a standard envelope?
Most come with a matching custom envelope sized to the folded card, so mailing is as easy as a regular card. Oversized designs may need extra postage - see our guide on how to mail a pop up card for specifics.
How long does a pop up card last?
Decades, if kept dry and out of direct sunlight. The paper used in quality pop up cards is the same acid-free stock as fine art prints, which is why so many become keepsakes.
Or skip the scissors - we did the paper engineering.
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