Business cards have been around for hundreds of years. But do business cards still work? Likely, you have wondered: What are the popular types? What is the business card size in inches? What do I include in my card? Or where can I get free business cards?
Welcome to the ultimate guide. You don’t need to guess how to make effective cards. We have compiled our best printing tips from over 20 years of printing experience.
The business card definition is that they are small printed cards with your name, occupation, and office address.
But they do not simply hold your contact details. They do way more for your brand. Here are some added uses:
These uses are what give a business card meaning today.
Are business cards still relevant 2022? According to CreditDonkey, 27 million cards are printed daily. In addition, a similar report noted that company sales improved by 2.5% for every 2,000 cards they distribute.
Do not reserve them for business events alone. Informal occasions are an excellent avenue for promoting your enterprise. Generally, you want to ensure that you are equipped to talk about your business when the opportunity lends itself. Not every prospect will buy from you, but you'd miss every sale if you're ill-equipped.
So, do people still use business cards today? The answer is "yes." Despite living in the digital age, they are still in vogue, and their popularity isn't waning. Next, we'd see the most popular types and which type is ideal for your specific needs.
What business card gets the most attention? they don’t all receive equal attention. Your card needs to stand out to be appealing. So, here are the most popular business cards:
Die-cut come in unique shapes and sizes. Your creativity is unlimited as you can print on various card shapes such as shoes, houses, ties, etc. For instance, if you are a realtor, you may print your card in the shape of a home. This way, your card will capture your prospect's gaze.
Choose from 80 unique but appealing trims. Novelty attracts. Hence, the typical rectangular-shaped card may go unnoticed, but not our Custom Shaped collection. Apply custom shapes to your in 1 click. Also, these shapes work with your card design or our free online templates. Choose custom-shaped cards for timely and professional designs.
The motion illusion makes them unforgettable, and fascinating.3D cards are the best type of business cards to showcase creativity. You can choose to have 3 different images in a vertical flip, thus maximizing space opportunities for your message. In addition, you can highlight coupons on one of the images and include humor to make them more appealing.
Ultra-thick ensures your message is felt. These cards are 3 to 8 times thicker than average. Hence, your prospects will conclude your message is important. These cards are durable and lasting due to their thickness.
Edge-painted are not just fanciful; they get noticed. Imagine your card is in a pile of similar cards. Painting the edges will help in such a scenario. In addition, these cards communicate your attention to detail and distinguished service.
Foldover cards give you double the space a regular business card has. So you get 4 sides to use instead of the usual 2. You can add as much information as you wish and even double it up for an appointment card. Use the extra space to give directions to your business premises, add a coupon code, highlight your services, share your schedule, and so much more!
The glossy coating gives these cards a shiny, smooth look that’s appealing and chic. In addition, the glossy surface ensures that printed images pop on the cards. Therefore, glossy cards are great if you must print quality, attention-grabbing images. Also, glossy cards remain durable for a long time due to their special coating.
We live in a time when people are concerned about the environment, and kraft paper stocks give the impression of environmental sustainability. Therefore, they are 100% recyclable. Show you are one with nature when you hand out one of these cards. Choose kraft if one of your business values promotes the environment’s well-being.
Black cards are one of the most popular. Black reveals sophistication and elegance. It creates a striking first impression and showcases professionalism. Utilize your prospect's natural love for black when you print on black paper.
Raised Spot UV helps you stand out. Specific areas of your card are more prominent and elevated than others. These areas could be your brand's logo or name. Raised Spot UV is unique and attractive.
Using a business card maker online tool is how to make your own business cards. We know you're likely not a professional designer, so a card maker has a simple drag-and-drop interface that anyone can use. In addition, blank templates have marked printing lines so that your content is never too close to the edge of your card.
Alternatively, use ready-made templates if you want them professionally in minutes. We have grouped thousands of templates by their industry or color scheme. Therefore, your ideal design is a click away. Access millions of free images, typefaces, and design icons when you use a business card maker. And that's how to make digital business card for your business.
What size is a standard business card? In the US, that's 3.5 x 2 inches. This size lets your card fit in most wallets without the unsightly crease on the edges.
However, smaller card sizes and square-shaped cards are noticeable because they are more unusual. Likewise, larger options are notable for the same reason. Plus, they allow you to use detailed copy and bold images on your design. This feature of larger cards means they can double as appointment cards or a mini catalog to showcase your product or services.
See our business card size and dimensions write-up for a detailed guide.
Get free business cards from 4OVER4. Small and new businesses are happy to save money. So, get FREE design templates, free printing, and free shipping on 4OVER4.COM. Perform simple actions to collect 500 4OVER4 coins. Then trade your coins for the 200 free business cards.
Here are 10 easy actions to start collecting valuable coins:
The above steps are how to make business cards for free.
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Some crucial information about your business should go on your business card. You want to leave out irrelevant information, so your card isn't cramped with information and, therefore, unreadable. Prioritize the information on your card and display the most important information on the front.
How do you determine what to put on the back of a business card? Less important but essential information should go on the back. Your clients may never know what's on the back if they are not captivated by the front. Additional information, like your social media handles, can be on the back.
Still, ensure only to include pertinent information about your business. Resist the temptation to include trivial details that don't serve you. Remember that simple cards are the most appealing and helpful.
Read our guide below for what information to put on a business card.
This goes without saying! The purpose of your business card is to promote your brand. Your business name and logo are elements of your brand that you must include and make prominent. A logo allows others to recognize your business anywhere. Logos can also communicate to customers important information about your business.
An example of a company embedded in our minds is Nike. The black ‘tick,’ known as the swoosh, is known worldwide. Even without seeing the name Nike, you connect the logo to the brand automatically whenever you see the Nike logo.
Your business name and logo typically go on the front, where they will receive the most eyeballs. Keep your brand name and logo simple and memorable. Also, it will help if prospects can imply your product or service by simply looking at your name or logo.
Include your tagline. A tagline is a simple statement that says what your brand does. Many businesses use between 2-5 words. An excellent example of a tagline is Airbnb's tagline. It says, 'Belong Anywhere,' which tells you it's about making anywhere feel like home. A tagline is what sets you apart from your competitors. I love Apple’s tagline — “Think Different.”
How can prospects reach you? It is important to add your contact information. Include relevant contact and give alternatives. You can have two numbers listed, or a number and your email. Also, include an office address and welcome visits if you own an office.
Have your website’s URL listed, as there is only so much you can say on a card. Interested folks can check out your work in detail on your website.
People are more likely to trust a business that has a social media presence. Hence, add your social media pages so recipients can learn more about your work. Ensure your pages are updated, and your content is regular and relevant to your customers.
White space refers to the blank spaces on a card with nothing written. They’re essential to have as they improve readability and aesthetics. It also helps recipients quickly skim through your card. Don’t go overboard with information. Just have the relevant information displayed. Avoid the temptation to include too much detail on your card.
What is a good price for business cards? It depends. While some don't cost much, others are pricier. The type of card you want and your chosen printing service will determine the cost.
Here, we compare the major printing companies' standard printing prices. How much does it cost to make business cards? Take a peep.
Size | Quantity | Price | |
---|---|---|---|
4OVER4 | 2” X 3.5” | 100 | $11.20 |
Vistaprint | 2” X 3.5” | 100 | $18.00 |
PsPrint | 2” X 3.5” | 100 | $18.35 |
Zazzle | 2” X 3.5” | 100 | $25.95 |
MOO | 2” X 3.5” | 50 | $21.00 |
Gotprint | 2” X 3.5” | 100 | $9.80 (excludes shipping) |
Primoprint | 2” X 3.5” | 100 | $23.00 |
Business card design templates help you design professional-looking cards quickly and easily. These templates include fonts, icons, and color schemes.
You can browse our business card design templates for free. Sort these templates by color scheme, business card size, or industry to see which works for you. Then, choose a template you want to start editing. Our free design tool is easy to use and allows you to import your brand logo or images. In addition, you get access to a library with millions of free digital assets, namely: fonts, icons, and images, to complete your project.
Finally, order your printed business cards once your design is ready. You can do this in minutes without hiring a designer or changing the browser tab. We'd print your job on schedule and deliver it based on your preferred delivery method. Check out our free templates to get started.
Do you wonder what paper to use for your business cards? There is no one answer. The material for a business card varies, and your choice will depend on the finish you want. But here a popular paper types to choose from:
These papers are available in different variants, points, or thickness.
Take advantage of any chance to connect with your contact but keep this business card etiquette in mind as you do.
If an individual is interested in connecting with you, they will ask about ways to contact you. This is the right time to give them your business card. Also, be sure to take business cards to events and conferences. Hand out your business cards to contacts at the event. It's inoffensive to do so because people expect them but ensure you're tactful. First, introduce yourself and what you do, then give them your business cards if there's a genuine connection. If you're going to a tradeshow, make sure you have a couple of cards in tow.
When sending out your products, especially to new customers, be sure to slip your business card. Have them on a desk at your business premises or somewhere you know potential customers visit frequently. A catchy business card design will spark the curiosity of prospects.
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You have several options to pick from when printing business cards, but if you are looking for where to print business cards same day, then it's 4OVER4. Get premium prints at great prices and a fast turnaround time when you order with us. In addition, you can choose from several customization options to ensure your cards suit your specific business needs.
You get free online proof when you order with 4OVER4. So you can preview what your prints will look like before they're made. Also, you can make last-minute changes to your business card, so it's exactly the way you want. Then you can print when you're happy.
These cards are among our luxurious range of business cards. So they make a lasting impression on prospects. They are made from 100% cotton paper, are thicker than standard business cards, and have a natural fiber look and feel. They are also biodegradable and eco-friendly; we make them from recycled cotton linter that is sometimes discarded.
You may think that it would be hard to write on them, but they actually have a nice smooth surface that is easy to write on. Cotton business cards are a great way to stand out from the crowd and show your environmental consciousness.
Here are some cotton business cards review from our happy customers:
“The business cards are lightweight but tough and durable.“
“There is a nice texture to them, giving it that "recycled material" feel.”
Die-cutting is a sure way of standing out of the crowd because of the uniqueness it yields in different products.
When it comes to printing, the sharp steel blade that creates a smooth edge offers consistency throughout the shape. The guiding shape that cuts through the paper stock producing different shapes and sizes is called a “die-line”.
The die line enables you to cut and form the business cards.
The process of die-cutting - the manner in which the die-cutting process unfolds is determined by the cutter being utilized. A rotating die presses materials in cylindrical mechanisms that enable high volume production. In a flatbed die, however, materials are pressed against two opposing plates like a stamp for increased efficiency.
In the last few years, they have invented digital “die-cutting” machines. Since these are digital and DO NOT require a “die” to be made, they are really digital cutting machines. That has changed the entire landscape for printers like 4OVER4 who have embraced the new cutting edge technology.
It is the process of applying shiny metallic foil on the edges of a book, business card and other printed products. You will recognize edge gilding in big religious books where the pages shine with silver or metallic foiling.
So far there are gilding services in gold and silver but these days technology has advanced enough to allow edge gilding in a variety of foil colors.
The process of edge gilding business cards
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These are business cards which assume the shape that the customer orders. They can also be called any shape business cards. There are so many examples of businesses using custom shaped business cards to represent the essence of their businesses.
A company in the agriculture sector has used leaf-shaped business cards. In the same vein a photographer or video professional can use business cards that look like cameras. That is the power of die-cutting.
Company | Dimension | Quantity | Price |
---|---|---|---|
4OVER4 | 2” X 3.5” | 250 | $129 |
Elite Flyers | 2” X 3.5” | 250 | $165 |
They can also be referred to as foldover business cards or folded business cards. A fold over business card is one that can be folded twice. There is no stark difference.
They are ordinary business cards with twice the space. They have four surfaces. The added space allows you room to print more information.
You can include other important details about your brand or business on the different pages of a fold over business card.
With the extra space, you can add your services, directions, products or print a highly attractive image.
At 4over4 they come in three different sizes; 4” x 3.5”, 3.75” x 3.5”x 3.5 Uneven fold, 2” x 7” Even fold.
Yes, you can laminate them. Lamination adds a layer of protection to business cards while still making them look classy and irresistible. Additionally, lamination enhances durability. Because lamination makes them water-resistant and tear-resistant.
There are different types of lamination that you can use for your cards:
Flush-cut lamination is more commonly used by printing companies on business cards. Lamination is recommended for business cards because they generally have a short shelf-life. It fortifies them to endure for a long time.
It is the super-fine plastic coating that is bonded with the surface of a print or card.It makes it look beautiful while at the same time acting as a layer of protection. Lamination makes the prints last long by ensuring that they are scratch-proof, water-resistant and have a durable finish.
Let me explain this by painting a picture. Have you ever seen a business card or a packaging box that has a shiny smooth surface? This phenomenon can be commonly noticed in Apple, Microsoft, and Google products. The shiny surface is subtle but shiny.
Spot Gloss, also known as spot UV is a coating that highlights particular parts of the card when applied. Unlike Raised spot where the images are elevated, spot gloss is subtle and somewhat transparent. Spot gloss adds a transparent shine on a business card.
The most interesting part is that you can use Spot UV to make a specific area of the business card stand out. If you want your logo to stand out, or services or any other part, you just get that spot-laminated.
For fold over business cards which have a lot of information in one, spot lamination makes sense. Because you can shine the spotlight on areas of your business card that you feel are important to highlight.
In the printing process, spot lamination is the final part. Therefore, before you add spot lamination, you have to ensure that inks have been properly laid down. Any other lamination has already been done by this stage and the drying completed.
Spot UV is then printed on top of the paper as a transparent gloss. Finally, it is dried.
As you choose which areas to highlight, always remember that less is more in the design world. Avoid adding too much gloss on the cards because it will end up circumventing its very purpose.
In a fold over business card, you should avoid putting it on a fold. With the fold, the high-gloss finish will creek or peel away. It becomes fragile when cut.Still on that point, gloss relies on regular/even surface tension. The folding, friction and creasing weakens the finish thereby causing cracks.
These are environmentally safe business cards made out of eco-friendly material called Kraft paper. Kraft paper is made of re-used, recyclable and biodegradable material. It’s a modern, classy style of business cards that have been in the market for the past 10 years now.
The cards are mostly used by companies that are conscious of environmental preservation and conservation.
There is a study that was done by ClinMed International library in 2019. According to the findings, North America is the second-largest producer of non-biodegradable waste after China. China produces 28% of non-biodegradable waste while America and Europe produce 19% each.
As a result, this necessitated the making of Kraft paper to stem the emission of harmful waste into the environment. At the same time, Kraft business cards are made to be prestigious and luxurious. Your brand and business will be noticed and respected because of Kraft business cards.
When you are ordering Kraft business cards, ensure that the card stock is 100% recyclable. As the world is rapidly tilting towards green practices, Kraft business cards help maintain a modern, rustic appearance.
Kraft business cards can fit all industries and businesses, but these are the most appropriate for them:
Features of a kraft business card sold by 4OVER4
A foil business card is a card that has been made with foil stamping. Foil stamping is when the printing process uses heat, pressure, foil film and metal dies (razors). The foil can come in a wide assortment of colors, rolls, shapes, finishes and optical effects.
Business cards can stand out when different types of foil types are applied to them. These are the existing foil options available:
As discussed above, metallic foil is metal-like. It’s a shiny finish that comes in various colors
These are some of the available and common foils today:
You can find foil rolls in different solid colors in both glossy and matte finishes.
The process of foil stamping
Color is applied to paper with pressure in an engraving fashion. The metal die is created in the appropriate shape for each individual color foil. For any particular design, there is a die designated to it almost like in die-cutting.
The developed metal dies are heated then stamped with enough pressure to seal a thin layer of foil to the paper. Sometimes a final die is produced if an embossed image is the goal for the design.
Plastic business cards are made from Polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It is a common plastic used in Identity cards, credit cards, store signs, bumper stickers and many more. So, the principle of printing on PVC is the same one used on plastic business cards.
One of the ways that you can print on plastic business cards is by using the inkjet printer.
The inkjet printer works on PVC paper between the sizes of 8 ½ inches and 11 inches. When you print other sizes it ultimately affects the quality of the final product. This scenario mainly happens in plastics that have glossy finish. The plastic doesn’t absorb the ink fully. It results in smudges even if the ink is already dry.
To counter that problem, laminate the sheet when the ink is dry. Experts at biz fluent advise that another solution would be to spray the sheet with a transparent fixative. Fixatives are readily available in stores.
It was interesting for me to note that there is a twist to printing on PVC. If the PVC has a paper backing, it should be inserted plastic side up. The ink should be applied to the plastic and not the protective backing.
Online printer services usually print on the side with the matte finish if you have both a glossy side and a matte side.
Small businesses that print plastic business cards are advised to avoid laser jet printers. Because laser printing uses heat. Obviously, when you introduce heat to plastic, it starts to deform and melt.
For all your printing needs, you need to check the most appropriate inkjet printers. There are different types of inkjet printers:
It uses heat to print. There is a series of tiny chambers that contain a heater each. They are all instructed by a digital command system. When they receive the command they eject a droplet of ink from every chamber.
When current surges through the heating elements, ink is rapidly vaporized in the chamber to form a bubble. Through causing pressure, the droplet of ink is propelled onto the paper.
It was developed by Epson. In contrast to the thermal inkjet technology, this one replaces heaters with ink-filled chambers. This one is a shape-shifter because when voltage is applied, the piezoelectric substance changes shape.
Consequently, it generates a pressure pulse in the fluid which forces droplets of ink from the nozzle to the printing material. The Piezo technology is good for a wide variety of inks. With Piezo there is no requirement for a volatile component or kogation.(Build up of ink residue).
Having seen the existing kind of technologies, the manufacturer of paper decides how to make it compatible with either of the two technologies. As you buy your PVC material, check its compatibility and buy Piezo compatible material.
Company | Dimension | Quantity | Price |
---|---|---|---|
4OVER4 | 2.125” x 3.375” | 250 | $178 |
4 Color print | 2.125” x 3.375” | 250 | $298 |
Silk cards pro | 2.125” x 3.375” | 250 | Request for quote |
They are also known as silk-coated business cards. Other people prefer to refer to them as silk business cards. Silk laminated business cards are a luxury type of business cards. Their name comes from the unique silky, smooth and matte finish that they possess.
Moreover, the strong silky material makes them both tear-resistant and water-resistant in addition to their firm feel.
If you want to identify the silky kind of texture, just feel the boxes that come with Apple and Google products. They usually have a silky feel to them. That is what we call the silk laminated texture.
It’s the process by which a layer of paper is coated with a light layer of plastic. This brings out a uniform, subtle texture that mimics the feel of smooth silk fabric.
Silk lamination softens the hard, solid cardboard feel on any traditionally uncoated cardstock. It adds pizzazz to a mundane thick material. And this pizzazz is very important because it makes a business card catch the attention of customers.
Laminating your cards with silk indicates that your brand offers quality and durable products.
Similar to velvet lamination, silk lamination mutes colors. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about shouting colors or “being too much”.
Some unique features that silk lamination possesses:
Coated paper is like a pane of glass. It is smooth and absorbs less ink. Additionally, it is durable. By contrast, uncoated paper has no finishing or coating. According to business printing, coated paper is treated with a coating compound so that it can reveal the qualities of the paper. The qualities can include its weight or gloss features.
On the other hand, uncoated paper is not as smooth as coated paper and absorbs ink like a sponge or paper towel. The uncoated paper is also versatile because it has different textures and finishes.
Instances where you can use either coated or uncoated paperCoated (More vibrant color production):
Velvet laminated business card
First and foremost, what is lamination? It is the super-fine plastic coating that is bonded with the surface of a print or card. It makes it look beautiful while at the same time acting as a layer of protection. Lamination makes the prints last long by ensuring that they are scratch-proof, water-resistant and have a durable finish.
The finishing on a business card is crucial because it determines the reaction or emotion it will evoke. It’s no secret that a business card should make your business stand out. Statistics even say that more than 70% will judge you or your brand based on the appearance of your business cards. This is according to a survey by Small Business Trendz.
That same survey revealed that more than 60% of business cards end up in the trash can. To avoid being part of that statistic, you should ensure that your business cards are irresistible. Have them done so well that they will be indispensable.
One of the ways you can make your business command attention is by employing velvet lamination. Velvet lamination is one of the latest finishes to be invented. While we can’t point out when it was invented, we can agree that it has influenced a lot in the world of business cards.
Laminating your cards with a velvet finish adds a much-needed touch of leisure. One of the unique things about velvet is its soft, textural feel. According to print expert Shlabh Agarwal, they stimulate the sense of touch and the sense of sight as well.
One important thing that is worth noting about velvet laminated cards is that they are very firm. As such, it adds a protective layer to prints. Therefore, unlike soft touch printing, velvet lamination does affect the overall look of a business card. The result of velvet is muted colors, elegance and prestige.
If you want to know velvet lamination better, look for a fresh peach. The soft texture of the skin of a peach is very similar if not identical to that of a velvet laminated card. Many people in the printing world often refer to it as the “velvet feel”.
As you can notice, velvet lamination is like a two-edged sword. You get both longevity and beauty at the same time.
Pros and cons of velvet lamination
Business cards are supposed to make you stand out from among many other businesses or competitors. From that premise therefore you should think about the options that you have. Make business cards that will bring out the unique identity of your business. Of all types of business cards there are, choose one. Add the necessary features that you like and win in your business.
As a small business owner on a budget, the cost of business cards matters. At 4OVER4 you can design your card from scratch for free or use their free design templates. In addition to that you then print 200 free business cards and get them shipped to you for free with 500 4OVER4 coins. These coins can be collected taking any of the 10 simple actions. With over two decades of experience in the print industry, you can trust 4OVER4 to deliver quality that will make you stand out and make a lasting impression with your prospects and customers.
Business Card Printing Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Jun 8, 2022Copy Link
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