Greeting cards on HP 5000N

[Top Spin]

Is there a simple way to print on greeting cards of various sizes and
shapes on the 5000N?

I tried to create a generic template that I could just modify the page
size and margins, but I can't figure out how the paper will need to be
oriented in the manal feed tray.

The 5000N takes letter size paper sideways and (11" edge first) and
legal paper endwise (8.5" edge first). I haven't done extensive
testing, but it appears that certain sizes get interpreted as
"envelope" and others as "custom size". The printer wants envelopes
fed endwise and custom size paper fed edgewise.

I just tried to print on a card that is 9" x 6.25" (portrait) when
open. I had a template for a 9" x 7" card which I had used before.
That card worked by setting the paperguides for letter-size paper and
then feeding the card so the top edge was against the right paper
guide.

When I changed paper size of that document to 9" x 6.25", the paper
size changed to "envelope" and I could not change it back. This meant
that I had to adjust the paper guides for the width of the card
(6.25") and feed the card top edge first.

The problem is I may not notice that the type of paper is changed from
custom to envelope whicha ffects the way the paper is fed.

Is there any way to force it to stay as custom size or otherwise
control the way the paper is fed?

Alternatvely, I suppose I could create a whole bunch of special
templates for each size of card and include instructions after testing
each one. This is a pain. Or I could always use 8.5 x 11 and create a
table cell of the desired size for the card so as to control where the
text prints.

Any other good ideas?

Thanks

--
Using an HP Laserjet 5000N