Paper Source is a stationery and paper goods retailer with both physical stores and an online shop
Paper Source is a chain that sells stationery, greeting cards, gift wrap, invitations, and paper-based craft supplies. The company operates retail locations in multiple states and runs an e-commerce website where you can order items for delivery or in-store pickup. Most of their inventory centers on paper products — cards, notepads, journals, and specialty papers — along with related items like pens, markers, stamps, and embellishments used in card-making and paper crafts.
The store positions itself as a destination for people who want higher-end or design-forward paper goods rather than mass-market alternatives. Their selection includes both their own branded products and items from independent designers and paper companies. Prices tend to run higher than big-box retailers, but the range of styles, colors, and specialty papers is wider than you would find at a drugstore or general merchandise chain.
Key Takeaways
- Paper Source sells greeting cards, stationery, gift wrap, invitations, journals, and paper crafting supplies both in physical stores and online.
- You can shop their website at papersource.com, search by product type or occasion, and choose delivery or in-store pickup where available.
- Many items are customizable — you can add names, dates, or messages to cards and stationery before ordering.
- The store runs seasonal sales and promotions, particularly around holidays and major gift-giving occasions.
What you can buy at Paper Source
The core inventory breaks into a few main categories. Greeting cards cover birthdays, holidays, sympathy, congratulations, and blank cards for custom messages. Stationery includes letterpress cards, notecards, thank-you cards, and boxed sets. Invitations range from straightforward printed designs to fully customizable options for weddings, parties, and events.
Gift wrap and bags include wrapping paper, tissue paper, gift bags, and ribbon. Journals and notebooks span lined, blank, and dotted pages in various sizes and cover designs. Paper crafting supplies include cardstock, specialty papers, stamps, ink pads, embellishments, and tools for making cards or scrapbooking.
Paper Source also carries writing instruments — pens, pencils, and markers — and seasonal items like holiday cards and decorations. Some locations stock a small selection of gifts that complement paper goods, though the focus remains on paper and stationery.
How to shop online and in stores
On papersource.com, you can browse by product category (cards, stationery, gift wrap), by occasion (birthday, wedding, sympathy), or by collection (designer collaborations, seasonal items). The site shows product images, descriptions, and pricing. Most items display in-stock status and estimated delivery times.
When you add items to your cart, you can choose standard shipping or expedited delivery. Many locations offer in-store pickup, which you can select at checkout if a store near you has the item in stock. You can also visit a physical Paper Source location to browse and purchase in person — the company's website includes a store locator to find addresses, hours, and phone numbers for locations in your area.
For customizable items like monogrammed stationery or personalized invitations, the website walks you through options to add text, choose fonts, and preview the final design before you place your order. Turnaround time for custom orders is typically longer than for pre-made items and varies by product.
Customization and personalization options
Paper Source offers personalization on many products. For cards and stationery, you can often add initials, full names, dates, or custom messages. Invitation suites typically allow you to input event details, guest names (for addressing), and color or design choices. Some items let you select from pre-designed layouts and then customize text within those templates.
The website shows which products are customizable and walks you through the personalization process step by step. You can usually preview your design on screen before finalizing your order. Custom orders take longer to produce and ship than ready-made items — the exact timeline depends on the product and current order volume.
Pricing and sales
Paper Source prices are generally higher than mass-market retailers like Target or Walmart, but lower than fully custom print shops. A single greeting card might cost $4 to $8, while a boxed set of notecards could range from $15 to $40 depending on design and paper quality. Gift wrap, journals, and specialty papers vary widely based on size and material.
The store runs regular promotions, particularly around major holidays (Christmas, Valentine's Day, Mother's Day) and gift-giving seasons. Email subscribers often receive discount codes. Clearance sections on the website feature discounted items from previous seasons. Prices and promotions change frequently, so checking the website or signing up for their email list is the best way to stay informed about current deals.
Shipping, returns, and customer service
Paper Source ships orders via standard mail carriers (USPS, UPS, or FedEx depending on the item and destination). Standard shipping typically takes 5 to 10 business days; expedited options are available at higher cost. In-store pickup is free and usually ready within a few days of ordering.
The company accepts returns of unopened, unused items within a set timeframe (typically 30 days from purchase). Items must be in original condition with tags attached. Return shipping is the customer's responsibility unless the item arrived damaged or defective. You can initiate returns through the website or by contacting customer service by phone or email — contact information is listed on papersource.com.
For questions about specific products, customization options, or order status, you can reach Paper Source customer service through their website's contact form, by phone during business hours, or by visiting a physical store location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order custom invitations with a specific guest list?
Yes. Paper Source allows you to customize invitations with event details, colors, and design choices. For guest addressing, you can typically upload a list or enter names individually during the ordering process. Turnaround time for custom invitations is longer than for pre-made cards — usually 2 to 3 weeks depending on complexity and current volume.
What is the difference between Paper Source's own brand and designer products?
Paper Source carries both in-house designs and products from independent paper designers and brands. Designer items are usually marked as such on the product page. Both categories are available at different price points; designer collaborations tend to cost more. The website lets you filter by brand or designer if you are looking for a specific creator's work.
Do they offer bulk orders for weddings or large events?
Paper Source handles custom orders for invitations and stationery, which can include larger quantities. For bulk pricing or special requests beyond what the website offers, contact their customer service team directly by phone or through their website. They can discuss options, timelines, and pricing for your specific project.
Can I return items I ordered online to a physical store?
Return policies vary by location and purchase method. Items bought online can usually be returned by mail or, in some cases, at a physical store location. Check the return instructions included with your order or contact customer service to confirm the return method for your specific purchase.
How long does it take to receive a custom order?
Turnaround time depends on the product and current order volume. Pre-made items ship within 5 to 10 business days with standard shipping. Custom orders typically take 2 to 3 weeks from the time you place your order. The website displays estimated production and delivery times for each product before you check out.