Printed Business Cards

Touch is an often overlooked sensation when it comes to business card design. The feel of a card can have a strong impact on how the card communicates to a client or colleague. We spend so much time thinking about the visual appeal of the business card, we often take very little time considering texture.

Cardstock comes in a variety of weights and textures all communicating different things. A very light thin card stock with a matt finish may leave the client thinking the individual didn’t spend very much money on their cards. A thin cheap card can eliminate any positive message sent by a well thought out text and color layout.

A card that has a glossy front and a matt back also sends a message: the message that you ran out of money.  If you choose a glossy finish, get it on both sides of the card and choose a thick heavy cardstock to best compliment the extravagant finish.

Linen finish cardstock is most suitable for those in a fabric or craft business. The paper version of the linen cardstock is a favorite for resumes. It has a smooth yet textured feel and looks best with a matt finish. A great compliment to flowery fonts.

A foil accent to a card adds texture as well as contrast and color. Highlighting certain parts of the background design with a little foil on a heavy smooth cardstock makes for a very rich feel to the finished business card.

The basic rule of thumb with business card feel is the heavier the card the better. A 100 pound weight cardstock shows you mean business, aren’t afraid to spend a little extra to make a good impression and understand the importance of all aspects of a card.

Touch is an important sensation and one of the many ways we communicate our needs, skills and personality. When designing your business card, make sure you take a minute to assess the feel of the finished product and always consider investing in heavy high quality textured card for that extra special touch.

Filed under: Business Card Help, Design Tips on October 1st, 2009