April 12, 2022
Imagine you've just met someone at a networking event. From a quick interaction, you have already noticed that they have the potential to revolutionise your company. After connecting and talking deeply, it's time to exchange your business cards. With the right business card material and content, you're giving away more than just a card—if any, you're giving away a piece of your brand.
Even when the talk is over, the proper business card can make an impact. How do you make sure your card accomplishes that, then? The material is where it all begins. In this post, we'll walk you through selecting the ideal material for your business cards so they're recognised and remembered. Get started!
The best way to get started selecting the right material for your business card is to appreciate the variety available. Each material has special qualities of its own. For instance, linen business cards are a common choice because they have a classy and polished appearance. The rough surface of linen cards gives your cards more visual pop and touch appeal. The texture gives your cards a unique and opulent appeal because it mimics the sight and feel of linen fabric.
Like fabric, cotton business cards are smooth and opulent to the touch. They are composed of cotton paper and frequently have a light texture that gives the artwork more dimension. Business cards made of kraft paper have a rustic, vintage feel. Their earthy brown colour comes from the unbleached wood pulp used in their production.
Kraft paper works well for companies who want an organic or handmade aesthetic. Silk business cards have an opulent gloss and are incredibly smooth. They have a refined and exquisite appearance and are composed of silk-coated paper. A common and adaptable material for business cards is cardstock. It has diverse looks and feels depending on the finish, which includes satin, glossy, and matte.
Now that you appreciate variety, read on to learn the specific elements you should consider when choosing the best material for your business card.
Texture is a silent communicator, not only a physical experience. The distinctive, slightly woven texture of your linen business cards instantly makes you stand out when you give them to someone. It's a statement rather than just some paper. The texture of linen conveys refinement and focus on details. It is long-lasting, resistant to smudging, and ideal for a tidy, timeless appearance.
It's critical to consider your brand image and the message you wish to deliver when choosing the materials for your business cards. Linen business cards are a great option for a sophisticated and timeless look. Your cards stand out from the crowd thanks to the texture, which gives them a hint of sophistication. On the other hand, you might like a sleeker substance, such as glossy or matte cardstock, if your business has a more modern and minimalist feel.
A cheap card is easily forgotten and easily wears off. Your business card should, therefore, be durable enough to endure being slipped inside pockets, handbags, and wallets. Different cardboard weights are available, commonly expressed in pounds or grams per square metre (gsm). A weight between 350 and 400 gsm is a nice compromise between flexibility and toughness. Maintaining the integrity of your brand is more important than simply sharing a business card.
Your brand and personality are reflected in your business cards; therefore, selecting a material that fits your beliefs and style is critical. If you're concerned about sustainability and the environment, make your cards out of eco-friendly materials like recycled paper.
However, if you're all about style and sophistication, business cards made of linen are a great way to stand out. Furthermore, using eco-friendly materials is a duty rather than merely a fad. A common option is recycled paper, which has a natural, rustic appearance. It communicates to your connections that your company is environmentally conscious.
Certain materials even have seeds you can plant, so your card becomes your brand's live, breathing memory.
Finishes can transform the look and feel of your card. A matte finish exudes elegance and is best for readability, resisting fingerprints and smudges. A glossy finish is vibrant and eye-catching, ideal for designs with vivid colours and images.
Remember, your choice of colour determines the colour perception of your brand. There’s also UV coating for extra shine and protection, or you could go for a soft-touch finish that feels like suede.
Your selections for printing can also be impacted by the material you select for your business cards. Certain printing techniques, such as foil stamping or embossing, could work better with some materials than others.
Because of their rough surface, which gives the design more depth and character, linen business cards, for instance, go nicely with these decorations. Consider your preferred card design and whether the material will allow for the printing methods you wish to use before choosing.
When designing business cards, cost is always a factor, so it's critical to select a material that works within your means. Although business cards made of linen may cost a little more than those made of regular cardstock, their quality appearance and longevity make them a great investment.
On the other hand, if money is short, there are several affordable choices out there, such as matte or glossy cardboard.
Your business card serves as a lasting memento of your interaction. It’s your handshake and an initial impression. Thus, it should be consistent with the principles of your brand and give a clear impression of your authority. Take your time selecting a material that fits well and looks great.
Not only is it a business card, but it's also an integral part of your professional brand, a link to potential business partnerships, and a powerful little tool in your toolbox. If you make an informed choice, your card will communicate a lot before you speak.
