Business Card Paper Options

2009-06-24T16:16:00.000-07:00

Selecting the right business card paper impacts the feel and appearance of your card. Whenever a person holds and views a business card, they get an idea of how professional the card owner is. It is often the case that individuals looking to get a new business card are unaware of the possible business card paper choices that exist. In addition, Some quick print services do not sufficiently consider the quality of the business card paper, resulting in a less than impressive outcome. Therefore, it is a good idea to learn about business card paper options prior to getting a new business card.

Business Card Paper Style

Determining which style of paper is the right one to select is the first step in creating a memorable business card.

Basic Business Card Paper Style

For a classy, professional appearance, the basic rectangular paper style is still highly accepted. Additionally, this version of business card paper contains micro-perforations, which will allow for a seamless separation of your cards when they're grouped together, without fumbling through them or leaving any uneven edges or lint.

Shaped cards

If you wish to have a less conventional, more eye-catching approach, go with a shaped card. Shaped business cards come in all configurations, including squarish, oval, circular, and beyond. If you do opt for such a card, choose a less splashy graphic to prevent your card from appearing “gimmicky.”

Appointment sticker cards

If your business has many client appointments, such as a dentist’s office, then appointment sticker cards are ideal. The card can contain space for both the business information and the person's appointment date and time. The recipient of the card can place it on a fridge, a calendar, etc' so the appointment is not missed.

Business Card Paper Type

A well made business card will make your company name and message unforgettable, therefore, selecting paper type that is of good quality is a must. There are various options when it comes to business card paper type, consequently you need to know the following basics to make an informed decision:

Business Card Paper Type Basics

1. The business card paper is known as 'Board' and the thickness of the paper is called 'Point' (pt).

2. Business cards are capable of being produced on a variety of papers, however, the 14 pt thickness is seen as the standard for professional cards since it is barely bendable and highly durable. Many quick print stores offer 10 pt paper, which is really only good if you have very limited time and budget. 10pt is quite flimsy and can deteriorate quickly, being just a little thicker than regular paper. This card will make you look inexperienced and unprofessional. The 12 pt paper is sturdy yet bendable, and will last in your pocket or wallet. It is unlikely your card will be printed on the same day when it's on a 12pt paper, and if the quick print stores do offer it, the process usually takes 7-10 business days. Online business card printers will offer 12pt or higher, and require about 3-7 business days for printing and delivery. There is also the 16 pt. card, which is about 60% as thick as a credit card. Few printers offer this one and if you can spare the extra cost, it will be worth it. It is the king of business cards.

3. Choosing a thicker board is important so that the business card remains durable as well as for preventing the color and images from appearing through the other side of the card when observed against a light.

Business Card Paper Varieties

The paper types are available in several varieties, including:

* Ivory paper: This is top quality paper and will last for a significant duration without added coating. It offers a classy look for businesses wishing to convey style and tradition.
* Handmade paper: This business card paper variety can be composed of cotton, petals, silk, jute, or any other natural material. It comes in an assortment of textures, giving an exclusive appearance to the card. Keep in mind that this variety is relatively costly when compared to the other formats.
* Untearable paper: This business card paper is gaining in popularity these days. It is specifically developed for business cards and is known for its durability and strength. The card is difficult to tear and is also waterproof.
* Art Paper: This is a very common type of business card paper. It looks especially good with a matte or glossy coating. Also, a more traditional company may prefer a textured art paper, which still looks sophisticated, and a more showy business will often opt for a florescent paper to cause the card to look even more vibrant and attractive.
* Recycled paper: would probably appeal most to people who strive to be environmentally friendly. This is likely to be a costly option, but mother earth would appreciate it.

Business Card Paper Coating

Business card paper coating comes in either matte, glossy, textured and non-coated. Clearly, the most affordable option is the non-coated version. The coated versions will come at a higher cost but will also make the card appear more professional, by showing more clarity and color.

The professional-looking coating that is part of the business card paper provides a significant appeal to the card. The common choices for this coating are ultraviolet glossy or aqueous coating. The UV glossy coating adds fading protection from the sun's ultraviolet light. The Aqueous coating offers both a gloss and an improved durability against such elements as scratches, dust, dirt, and other physical deterioration. For anyone using a photo image on their business card, choose the glossy paper. Such paper could be double the cost of a regular paper but the final print looks amazing. For a non-shiny version, yet still professional-looking, go with the matte style.

To make your business card stand out further from the rest, you should select a business card paper that isn't plain white, but has some color to it. An ivory color, or similar, with either a glossy or matte finish will produce further attractiveness.

Business Card Paper Formats

If you are printing your cards at home, you should know that business card paper for printers usually has either 8 or 10 cards per sheet. When using background graphics or images that cover the entire card, you will need an 8 cards format since the printer will likely go beyond the individual business card size and overprint on the gaps between the cards.

The way individual cards are attached together on the paper will also determine their final look. Business card paper typically has ready-made size markings, taped or perforated, which allow the cards to be separated by hand or a cutter once printed. Perforated cards have somewhat rough edges once they are separated, however, they typically are priced at 50% less than smooth edge cards. Cards that have a smooth edge appear more professional. Such cards are cut in advance and secured using a sticky tape on the back or placed on a thin base paper. Once these cards are separated, their edges are absolutely straight and clean.

Business Card Paper Printing

Certain types of business card paper are to be used in specific printers. For example, glossy paper is to be avoided in a laser printer since reflections could damage it. Textured and magnetic papers is also to be avoided in a laser printer. However, inkjet printer, can use any kind of paper.

As far as paper color and printing, for cards having a plain design (text with black and white graphics) a monochrome laser printer will do the job. When it comes to full color designs on business card paper that isn't glossy, textured or magnetic, you can use an inkjet or color laser printer.

The quality of the paper is an essential consideration when designing a business card. By paying attention to such important details as business card paper, you will convey the best professional message and brand you can.

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