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Material Options For Compartments in Custom Compendiums
Last Updated: 19 July 2025
Custom compendiums are a great option if you’re looking for giveaways that working professionals can use—at corporate events in Sydney, leadership forums in Melbourne, or client meetings across Brisbane. They’re ideal as corporate gifts, part of onboarding kits, or even thank-you tokens for partners after a successful presentation at events like the Australian HR Summit or the Perth Business Expo. And when you choose the right material and the best quality, this simple gift can become a game-changer for your promotions. One key element often overlooked is the material used to create the internal compartments—the sections that hold business cards, pens, USB drives, notepads, or devices. In this guide, we’ll explore four popular compartment materials—card stock, plastic, leather, and textile—and how each one brings something different to the table.
Card Stock Compartments
Card stock is a sturdy, paper-based material often made from recycled fibres. It’s popular for cost-effective designs and for brands who are serious on their sustainable goals while still offering structure and visual appeal.
Key advantages:
- Lightweight yet rigid enough for slot-style compartments
- Easy to cut, shape, fold, and customise
- Supports finishes like Embossing, foil stamping, or matte lamination
While card stock isn’t ideal for heavy-use folders, it’s also great for short-term projects, gift compendiums, or lightweight mailouts where budget and print impact are priorities.
Plastic Compartments
Plastic, particularly PVC (polyvinyl chloride), offers more durability and water resistance than paper-based alternatives.
Why choose plastic:
- Excellent for protecting inserts or creating sleek internal sleeves
- Available in matte, gloss, transparent or coloured finishes
- Withstands regular handling better than card stock
Plastic compartments complement modern or minimalist compendium designs, especially when combined with tech-friendly elements like tablet holders or magnetic closures.
Leather Compartments
When first impressions matter, printed leather compendiums bring a premium edge. Whether it’s genuine leather or high-quality PU (polyurethane) leather, this material elevates the perceived value of the compendium immediately.
Ideal for:
- Executive gifts or milestone recognition
- High-end sales kits or VIP conference folders
- Long-term office use where durability is key
Different leather types—from smooth cowhide to textured finishes—allow you to tailor the tactile feel and visual identity. Leather compartments also age well, becoming softer while maintaining their form.
Textile Compartments
Textiles offer softer, more flexible compartment material, and they are gaining popularity in contemporary promotional compendiums. Common fabric choices include canvas, twill, cotton blends, and recycled fibres.
What sets textiles apart:
- Malleability makes them ideal for custom pockets and pouches
- Rich colour variety and printable surfaces (e.g. dye sublimation)
- Delivers a handcrafted, modern aesthetic
Textile-lined interiors feel warmer and more tactile than rigid plastics or cards. They’re ideal for eco-conscious brands or those wanting a natural, design-forward touch.
Ready to Build Smarter Compendiums That Impress?
Whether you’re preparing client packs in a Melbourne law firm, onboarding new hires in a Brisbane tech startup, or running a leadership event in Sydney, your compendiums should reflect your brand’s professionalism—and your values. With premium materials like leather, durable textiles, or eco-friendly recycled fabrics, we’ll help you create a functional gift that doesn’t compromise style or sustainability. Contact our team to explore eco-conscious options, request product samples, or get a free quote for your next project.
