Business Card Paper & Material Options
Take Your Card to the Next Level
When it comes to paper and material options for your business card, the choices are virtually limitless. From different weights, finishes, coatings, and types of paper, you’ll want to pick the best look and feel for your business and personal aesthetic.
Business Card Paper Types
The first step in designing your business card is choosing the type of paper it will be printed on. Most business cards range from 14–20 pts.
- Regular cardstock (14 pt) — The standard business card option. Cost effective and typically used by companies that are printing cards in bulk.
- Deluxe cardstock (16 pt) — A little thicker than regular cardstock, premium card stock can be coated or uncoated, giving it a more substantial feel.
- Premium card stock (18 pt) — Make a statement and command attention with 18PT C1S Business Cards. They are printed on thick 18PT paper with a coating on the front with no coating on the back (C1S).
- Plastic — To really stand out, some professionals opt for thicker plastic versions of business cards. This level of customization isn’t always available, but it certainly makes a statement.
- Waterproof – These cards are composed of materials that make it waterproof and ultra-resilient, giving it the durability to last for many years. This 10pt stock works well for insurance cards, business cards, menus and much more.
- 100 LB Cover Linen – Linen business cards are printed on 100lb. paper and have a very unique textured feel. These full-color, high-end business cards are printed on white linen cardstock.
- Brown Kraft – Brown Kraft cards are printed on thick, light brown kraft paper that has natural fibers and subtle visible flecks to give it an organic look and feel. The stock is 30% recycled lending to its rustic, eco-friendly appeal.
Finishing: Gloss and Matte Business Cards
- High Gloss UV finish cards have a slight sheen to them and reflect light. If your business card uses a lot of color or includes a photo, a glossy finish may be the most attractive option. Made from a compound dried under ultraviolet light, UV coating helps prevent your business cards from fading.
- Matte-finish cards have a smooth surface but lack the shiny, reflective patina of a glossy card. If your card has a lot of text and very little color, a classic matte finish may be the best choice.
- Spot UV Gloss finish gives Business Cards an eye-catching texture. It is a glossy coating on specific areas that make text and visuals pop. It is printed on top of the matte finish.
- Raised Spot UV – Suede Raised Spot UV Cards feature smooth glossy raised areas that contrast beautifully with the Suede/Soft Touch Laminate foundation of the cards.
Special Paper Card Options
Here are a few unique, less-commonly used paper options for business cards that can really help you stand out.
- Painted Edge — For a special touch, some cards can have colored or foiled edges, giving them a distinctive look when viewed from the side.
- Hot Foil – You can choose from gold, silver, or copper foil accents on 14pt Uncoated or 16pt Silk Laminated Business Cards for an ultra-refined custom finish that adds sophistication and class to any business or brand.
You can choose any of these paper types and finishing options for business cards. If you are ready to create your own eye-catching business cards, click here
