What Is A Business card?

As the saying goes, “First Impression is the Best Impression”. Nothing rings more true when it comes to business and networking. But, if there’s something that could give you a second chance, it is a business card. Hence, business card printing is the first step to launching your business.

A business card is a small credit-card sized paper that holds your business name, logo, contact details, and such. It conveys your brand image within a 2 x 2 small piece of paper. While it doesn’t tell the entire story, it represents what your business is about. A business card is a secret tool for marketing. It gets your information out to your client or customers.

Where is it used?

No amount of technical advancements takes away the importance of business cards. They are irreplaceable. It is not just a piece of card that holds your business details, but also your professional image. Business executives make it a point to have a few cards with them at any point in time. That way they can persuade an acquaintance they met either at an airport lounge or a party to be a potential client.

Business cards are also important when attending conferences, trade shows, seminars, business meetings, and so on. In certain cultures, you must give a card of your own, in return, when given a business card.

Where can a business card be printed?

A card just doesn’t hold the address, logo, and name. An artistic business card can take your brand further and make a lasting impression. Unlike earlier, when you’d have to get your business card printing done at a press, you have multiple options now, making it easy on cash- strapped businesses.

Here’s how you can get your business cards printed.

Home

Not all businesses can afford to get a card designed and printed professionally. When printing at home, you can save a bunch of money that you can invest in your business. Apps like Canva, Microsoft Publisher, Google Chrome Business Card Maker, etc., help you design your template and card. You can then print them on your printer right at home.

Print Shops

If business card printing at home is not possible, print shops are there for you. USPS, CVS, Walmart, Staples, etc., have copy and print services, where you can get your business card printing done. Some have designers who can help to design your business card. You can also look at online printing options, like PrintShop, VistaPrint, Printvenue, etc.

Commercial Printers

Commercial printers are where you got if you have a serious budget set aside for business card printing. Most printers can get your card designed and printed. From unique business cards to never seen before creative ones, they get everything done as long as you can afford it.

What are the various ways of business card printing?

Despite a creative idea and an attractive design, not all business cards end up as anticipated. The reason being the printing technology. Offset and digital printing are two different technologies used in business card printing. Both use vastly different methods of printing. It’s important you understand both, since choosing the right one can save you a lot of money.

Digital Printing of business cards

Digital printing is a cheaper alternative for those who want a lesser number of cards done. But, to an untrained eye, you wouldn’t find any difference. Backed by advanced technologies, digital printing can give the same quality as that of offset printing with even more vibrant colors. Digital printing can also handle varied data. Unfortunately, it can only support limited card stocks. With the absence of plates and layouts, it gets the job done quicker and at a more reasonable cost. In short, if you have multiple originals, less budget, and even lesser time, digital printing is your poison.

Offset Printing of business cards

Offset is the traditional method of business card printing. It is made on a printing press with plates and ink. The plates transfer the image on to a rubber sheet, which is then rolled onto sheets of paper. This makes a difference in quality as the designs are laid out sharp and crisp. Since the initial setup takes time and money, they are not viable for short orders. But when it comes to large orders the price drops significantly. Also, offset printing can handle a variety of card stocks, customized finishes, and special inks.

What are the various finishes available for business card printing?

Your business card can help you gain an edge over your competitor. As such, the right finish makes your card stand out. It makes the difference between making it to the wallet or trash.

Spot UV Varnish

The varnish is a coating of matte, gloss, or silk, that enhances the look of the card and makes it last longer. Spot UV is used to highlight an area, maybe the logo, and make the color appear richer.

Embossing

Embossing adds dimension or texture to the business card. It includes pressing an image, logo, or text onto the card raising it higher than the rest.

Debossing

Debossing is the exact opposite of embossing. Here the logo or text is pushed to create an indentation. This can be done either with or without ink in which case it is called a blind deboss.

Foiling

Foil stamping gives a rich look to any card. It involves applying a foil in metallic, solid, or holographic colors to selective areas for attracting attention.

Die Cut

Die-cut is one of the rare finishes out there. It involves using a die to cut a specific shape on the business card. You can also cut the business card into custom shapes using this finish.

Matte

Matte finish is a common finish but no less elegant than the other finishes. It gives the card a velvety texture with a touch of luxury. The finish adds sturdiness to the card with subdued color.

Gloss

As opposed to a matte finish, gloss finish gives a sharp, contrast image. This gives a visually stunning appearance to the card. The shiny effect makes the logo and text pop.

What are some of the terminologies to remember in business card printing?

The business card printing process is vast. While you are not required to know everything, you should understand certain terminologies.

Pantone

Pantone printing uses predetermined color formulas, similar to a paint swatch. It is used in printing to find out the accurate color and maintain consistency.

QR Codes

QR codes or quick response codes are computer generated barcodes containing information, like the link to your website. The information is retrieved when scanned with a camera.

Print Ready Artwork

Print ready artwork simply refers to the printable file that contains the artwork set for printing. It should meet all the specifications for printing a successful business card.