How to Choose the Right Paper Stock for Business Cards
Here are some simple tips about how to select the right paper stock for your business cards.
Do you want to design your business cards? Are you wondering how to choose the correct paper for the cards? In this article we will discuss what you need to know in order about paper to choose for your business cards.
With so many types of paper types to choose from it can be difficult to know what to select.
The top options to help you choose are:
texture
colour
weight
Picking the right stock can seem intricate and complicated because of the endless options, although by answering these three categories you should be able to make sure you have made a good selection.
Getting started on the Path to the Best Paper for Your Business Cards
The first place you want to start is ask your local printer to see the different paper options they carry. The printer isn’t local? Ask for paper samples. Don’t set your eyes just yet on that paper you instantly started to dote on either. Consider your budget because high quality paper does cost more—weight or stock.
If you’re a graphic designer looking to build your own library collection of paper stock options here’s some ways to get your hand on your own paper stock books:
Contact paper or print companies online and ask request samples. Cascades, Domtar, Kallima, or Neenah are a few. Some companies do charge a fee and some will be free.
Attend design or print trade shows and visit the paper company booths.
When to Choose Coated Paper
Silk, gloss, or coated paper has a coating on it and is better used for printing visual art or portfolio examples like photographs, art, or illustrations. This is because the colours appear brighter on silk or gloss stock instead of matte or uncoated paper. Since the ink doesn’t absorb into the fibers of the paper stock, the ink stays on top of the fibers protecting the brightness of the colour.
When to Use Uncoated Paper
Uncoated paper has a natural raw texture. It’s best used for businesses that want to have a sustainable organic finishing effect in their brand image. Uncoated paper is also best suited for layouts that have a lot of text. Type is easier to read and won’t reflect light like a gloss paper will.
Paper Stock Thickness and Weight
The typical paper stock used for business cards is 80 to 100lbs. This is because you want to hand someone a card that isn’t floppy or easily bents. Cards that are difficult to bend or are more durable in pockets—holding up to prolonged use or storage while in transit. Choose a stock that has substantial weight and it will get noticed, with a likely comment of how solid the card is.
Tell us about a business card design or any tips you may have for selecting the right paper stock. We’d love to hear them! Leave your comments below.