How to Make Your Business Cards

Make your own business cards.

Business cards are an essential tool for networking and communicating your role within a company. Whether you own your own business or just want an easy way to give your contact information to others, you can save money by creating your own cards. There are many websites online that allow you to customize and order large amounts of business cards but you can also design them easily on your own computer.

Things You'll Need

• Microsoft Word 2003 or above
• Business card paper (available at office supply stores)
• Printer
• Paper cutter

Instructions

Before You Begin

1. Decide what information you want on your business card. Your name, company name (if applicable), address, phone number and email address are essential but you can also include a company motto or slogan, logo or small photos, depending on the type of business you conduct.

2. Make sure you have picture files of any logo or photos you would like to put on the card and that they are converted to a small size. You will be able to upload this photo into Microsoft Word when you begin designing your card. You can use any photo editing program or a website like Photobucket or Shutterfly to resize your picture.

3. Spend some time thinking about the design and layout of your card. Your card can be set up in either a portrait or landscape format and can be in a range of fonts, colors and styles. Keep the nature of your business in mind, which will help determine whether your card should be formal or more casual.

Creating Your Card

1. Open a new document using Microsoft Word on your computer. Under the "Tools" menu, choose "Envelopes and Labels" and click on "Options."

2. Select the type of business card paper you are using in the "Product type" menu, such as Avery Standard. Check the number of the business card paper and select it in the "Product Number" menu, such as "3612-Business Card." Click "OK." Click "New Document." This will open up a template for business cards, allowing you to see where the parameters of each card will print out on a sheet of business card paper.

3. Add your photo, picture or logo first, if you have them. On the "Insert" menu, choose "Picture." Browse the files on your computer and upload the one you want to display on the card. You can adjust the size of the picture on the card by clicking on it once you have selected the file.

4. Choose a font and add your text by clicking on the card template and typing directly on it.

5. Copy and paste the card you have designed into each space on the template. When you are finished, the entire page should be filled. Make sure to save your work before printing.

Printing and Finishing Your Cards

1. Insert the business card paper into your printer. Select "Print Preview" to see how it will appear on paper before beginning to print. Make any adjustments needed.

2. Select "Print" under the file menu when you are satisfied. Make sure your printer is set to high-quality print for a more vibrant look if you are using color or pictures .

3. Use a paper cutter to cut out your cards once they have finished printing.

Tips & Warnings

• Always remember to save your work often so that, if your computer freezes or the program closes, you won't lose the cards you have designed.

References

• Barrel of Crafts: How to Make Business Cards
• Computer Companion: Create Business Cards in Word