Pixels To Print: Creative Business Cards

In today’s digital age of sending emails and calendar invites, surprisingly one thing that hasn’t been phased out is the business card, and I think it’s here to stay. It’s the quickest way to exchange information face-to-face and is the first impression of your brand. So, it is important to have your business card looking professional and be creative or unique enough to stand out from the rest. Show your contact that you took the time to think and design your card beyond the typical, boring white rectangle.

Here are five ways to spice up a boring business card and make a lasting impression:

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From weight and texture to color and finishes, there is a lot to look at when considering paper stock for your business card.

1. Weight: Flimsier cards are printed on 12pt stock. To have your cards feeling more premium, go for the 14pt or 16pt.

2. Texture: Do you want your cards smooth or to have a texture? You can get a more luxurious look and feel with textured paper.

3. Color: Be sure to select your stock color, there are many shades of white. Or go beyond white and choose something that will fit your design.

4. Finishes: Consider matte, glossy, or soft-touch laminate finishes -- either will change your design and feel.

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The standard size of a US business card is 3.5” x 2” but you aren’t confined to these dimensions or rectangular shape. Making a unique shape or changing the vehicle all together can make for some interesting and memorable impressions.

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Including a design created with UV or Spot gloss can provide a sleek, stylish design. This subtle addition can go a long way – add a tone-on-tone effect, create a hidden pattern, or highlight your logo.

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An easy way to take your design from cheap to high-end is adding a foil stamp. The metallic effect adds perceived value to your card, brand, and you.

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This subtle method can enhance your business card in many ways depending on how it’s incorporated into your design. Add depth and tact to your card compared to a typical flat card.

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