Hammermill Colored Paper 8.5 x 11 Gray Yellow - 20 lb Pastel Pack

In this review of Hammermill Colored Paper the bottom line is simple: this 20 lb pastel gray yellow paper is best for offices, classrooms, and craft projects that need dependable color with low show-through. The reviewer found the paper runs smoothly through home printers and office copiers, making flyers, newsletters and color-coded forms that stand out without being garish. Its combination of a smooth surface and high opacity is the single biggest reason to buy, while the 30% recycled fiber and FSC certification make it a practical choice for sustainably minded buyers.

Key Features

• Dependable runnability: The sheet weight and finish help the paper feed reliably through home printers and high-speed office equipment for consistent output.
• Smooth printable surface: The even surface reduces ink bleed and keeps text and graphics crisp on copies and digital prints.
• High opacity: Minimal show-through preserves readability on both sides, which is helpful for duplex printing or double-sided newsletters.
• 30% recycled fiber: The recycled content lowers environmental impact while maintaining usable strength and appearance for everyday documents.
• FSC certified: Made in the USA from sustainably managed forests, offering traceability for buyers who prefer certified products.

Who It's For

This paper is well suited to schools, non-profit offices and small businesses that need colored sheets for flyers, classroom handouts, reports and color coding without expensive specialty stock. It's a practical pick for anyone who wants a pastel shade that is soft on the eyes, yet still prints clearly with standard toner and inkjet processes.

Those who need heavyweight card stock for signage, heavy-duty craft projects, or archival documents should look elsewhere; users expecting thick cardstock stiffness will find this more like standard 20 lb copy paper in hand feel. Also, if tear resistance is critical, consider heavier or coated alternatives.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Consistent printer performance for home and office machines.
• Pleasant pastel shade that improves visual appeal without overpowering content.
• Good value for bulk packs and suitable for a wide range of tasks from flyers to school projects.

Cons

• Some users may find the paper thin compared with heavier craft or card stocks.
• Packaging can occasionally be damaged in transit, which risks torn sheets on arrival.

Specifications

Our Verdict

Hammermill Colored Paper in pastel gray yellow is a reliable, value-oriented choice for everyday printing, classroom use and bulk office needs. It delivers a smooth printable surface and good opacity for duplex work, and the recycled content and FSC certification add sustainability cred. Buy it if you want consistent color and runnability at a reasonable price; skip it only if you require heavier card stock or ultra-rigid sheets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this paper suitable for inkjet and laser printers?
Yes. The paper is designed to run efficiently through home printers, copiers and office imaging equipment for both inkjet and laser use.

How opaque is the paper for double-sided printing?
The paper has relatively high opacity for 20 lb colored stock, so show-through is minimal for most duplex documents.

Does this paper contain recycled fiber?
Yes. The paper contains 30% recycled fiber and is FSC certified, reflecting sustainable sourcing.