The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Paper for Your Miniature Templates
At Build My Mini, we want to help you get the best results when you print and craft with our templates. Whether you’re building a mini shop, a pop-up frame artwork, or a tiny grocery shelf, the type of paper you use can make a huge difference in the final look and feel of your project.
Here’s an easy-to-follow guide to choosing the perfect paper for every type of template.
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Step 1: Paper Size – Letter or A4?
Our templates are designed on letter size paper (8.5” x 11”), which is standard in Canada and the US.
However, if you’re using A4 paper (21 x 29.7 cm) — common in Europe and Asia — don’t worry!
Most home printers can automatically scale the template to fit A4 paper without distorting the design.
Pro Tip: Select "Fit to Page" when printing if your printer defaults to A4.
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Step 2: Paper Weight – What Works Best?
1. Cardstock (170 gsm or higher) – For Structural Pieces
Recommended for:
Miniature Kits (like shops, stands, and pop-up frames)
Walls, floors, and large furniture pieces
Why?
Cardstock is sturdy enough to hold shape and gives your miniature structure a clean, professional look. It’s easier to cut and fold neatly, especially for larger flat surfaces.
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2. Lightweight Paper (120 gsm) – For Fine Details
Recommended for:
Tiny accessories (food packages, books, signs)
Small decorative items (posters, product labels)
Why?
Lighter paper is easier to fold into small shapes and works beautifully for delicate miniature accessories where thickness would feel too bulky.
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Step 3: Paper Finish – Glossy or Matte?
1. Glossy Coated Paper – For Realistic Shine
Perfect for:
Food items (bottles, cans, snacks)
Groceries and product packaging
Modern decor with shiny surfaces
Why?
Glossy paper enhances colors and gives your printed designs a realistic, vibrant sheen — just like real packaging in a store.
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2. Matte Coated Paper – For Soft, Realistic Look
Perfect for:
Electronics (TVs, appliances)
Fashion items (clothes, bags)
Furniture (tables, chairs)
Why?
Matte paper reduces glare and gives printed items a softer, more realistic texture — ideal for furniture or clothing where you want to avoid a plastic shine.
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Quick Cheat Sheet
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Bonus Tip: Test Before Committing
If you’re new to printing miniatures, print a test page on regular printer paper first to check the size and colors. Once you’re happy, print the final version on your chosen specialty paper.
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Start Printing & Crafting Today!
Whether you’re building a tiny bakery, setting up a fashion boutique, or decorating a cozy paper café, the right paper makes all the difference.
Browse our growing collection of printable miniature templates and start your paper crafting journey today!