Types of Paper for Business Cards
Paper choices for business cards range from classic styles to elegant finishes to glossy coating. The type of paper you choose can help define the image of your business and can effect the cost of coordinating business stationary such as letterheads and envelopes. Knowing how paper is measured and classified can help when choosing your business card paper.
Other People Are Reading
-
History
-
Business cards were first used in the 17th century in France. Referred to as visiting cards, information was written onto cards the size of the palm and given to people.
Function
-
Standard business cards today measure 2-by-3.5 inches and are typically printed on heavy paper that won't easily tear. Business cards are an important marketing tool and should include information such as a name, address, phone number and email address to a potential client or customer. Some businesses also include hours on the backs of the cards. The design should be easy to read and should reflect the image of the business.
-
Function
-
Standard business cards are printed on card, or index, stock of 80 to 110 pounds. Standard paper stock is white with a smooth finish. Variations to stock color and finish can range greatly. Popular types of business card paper stock finishes are linen, which is textured with vertical and horizontal lines, and vellum, which has a slightly rough finish. Another popular type of business card stock has a glossy coating to one or both sides of the business card.
Size
-
When paper is classified by weight, it refers to the weight of 500 sheets as produced from the paper mill. Paper that is sized according to weight will also be given a classification such as cover, index, card or text. Cover, index, and card stocks, such as those used for business cards, are heavier in thickness than text stock. When paper is classified by point size, the thickness of the sheet is determined by using a micrometer. Glossy, or coated, stock will often be sized according to the thickness of the sheet.
Considerations
-
When choosing your business card paper, consider whether you want it to coordinate with your other stationary. Functional business sets are coordinated in design as well as paper type. It's important to determine how the cost of the business card stock with impact other stationary prices.
Prevention/Solution
-
In order to gain a better understanding of paper stock choices for printing business cards, ask your printer to show you a variety of samples and their prices. By determining the different types of paper that are available, as well as determining overall cost of coordinating business sets, you could ultimately save money over the long term.
-
