Design Inspiration Blog | Plastic Printers

Do Not Get Overwhelmed, Cheat Sheet for Perfect Business Cards

Written by Sarah K | Oct 11, 2013 3:03:00 PM


In this printing day and age new technology, new methods to print, and new material to print on is always coming out, which on top of the already confusing add-ons and options that you have to choose from when printing your new business cards, creates a job that, quite frankly, can be extremely daunting for most people.

From card thickness to lamination options, here you'll find some of the most important things to consider when ordering your new business cards. Jump into your project with confidence and the knowledge that you need to create the perfect card for you and your business.

1. Size

The standard business card size is 3.5" x 2". This is about the size of a credit card if you need something to compare it to. We of course print standard card sizes but you may also want to consider if you could benefit from a non-standard size for your business. Many companies have opted for a square shape, or a size slightly larger. We have the ability to print any size and any shape here at Plastic Printers. Want a bug shaped card for a pest control business? A donut shaped card for a bakery? Or a guitar pick shaped card for that extra wow-factor? The sky is the limit!

2. Thickness

Thickness options are, like size options, a very important aspect to consider when putting together your new business card project. A thicker card can sometimes evoke a "subliminal" message about your brand. If you want something that is flexible and easy to bend, go with a 20mil stock card, but if a sturdier feel is what you are looking for our 30mil stock is about as thick as a credit card. It bends but does not crease!

3. Color

From full color to black and white, we have all the options you need. Print both sides, one side, or choose full color one side and monochrome on the back. It's all about what you need and what your project requires. We will make it happen.

4. Stock Type

Frosted, clear, and opaque, platinum and rainbow colored. They can all create an emotional response when you hand those cards out. It all depends on what kind of response you want that to be. On our frosted and clear cards we are able to print both sides with a special printing process called a "white blocker". With even the most minute detail we are able to use this white blocker technique to create absolutely stunning cards that will blow everyone away each time you hand them out.

5. Lamination Options

Your lamination options will create an overall look and feel to your card that will be uniquely you. A matte/gloss finish will give one side of your card a sophisticated fresh look that exudes class and the other side of your card will have a sleek, professional shiny finish. Of course these options are purely up to you. Matte also gives you the ability to write on your card if you want that option as well!

6. To Foil Stamp or Not?

Foil stamping can add that huge WOW factor that you are looking for on your cards. If you are a business that truly wants to bump up your image, foil stamping may be something to consider. With multiple color options and the ability to foil stamp in almost any shape you want, your card could virtually level up against the competition. Check out our handy video that compares our metallic ink to foil stamping and see the HUGE difference!

Whatever the project you have we're here to make that job as painless and carefree as possible. Each of our card experts will walk you through the process, get you the deepest discounts based on what kind of project you are printing, and take care of everything for you so you don't have to!