Business Cards

Pick a heavier cardstock (typically 14–32 pt or 250–400 gsm) for a more substantial feel and durability; lighter stocks are more economical. Consider finishes—matte for a subdued look, gloss for vibrant colors, and textured or cotton stocks for premium tactile impression

The common standard is 3.5 x 2 inches (landscape or portrait orientation). Make sure to include a bleed area (usually 0.125 inches) in your design file and keep important text at least 0.125–0.25 inches from the trim edge

Higher quantities usually lower the per-card cost, so estimate how many you'll distribute over 6–12 months and account for design changes. For variable or frequently updated details, consider ordering smaller batches or using printing services that offer affordable reprints

Provide print-ready files in CMYK color mode, typically PDF, TIFF, or high-resolution JPG at 300 DPI. Include crop marks and bleed, convert text to outlines or embed fonts, and confirm color profiles with the printer if color matching is critical

Yes; many printers offer recycled paper stocks, tree-free fibers (like cotton or hemp), and soy- or vegetable-based inks. Look for FSC certification or recycled-content percentages and confirm whether special coatings affect recyclability

Finishes include UV or aqueous coatings for shine and scratch resistance, laminations (matte or gloss) for moisture protection, foil stamping for accents, and spot varnish for selective gloss. Coatings and laminates increase durability but can affect recyclability and tactile feel

Prioritize legible typography (avoid fonts under 7–8 pt for body text), clear hierarchy of information (name, role, contact), sufficient contrast between text and background, and include only essential contact methods to avoid clutter