How to design a business card - 9 steps to success

I'm assuming you must think business cards are a great idea... because you are reading this. So, let's get straight on with it.

1) You might want to think about creating your own unique logo.

2) You might want to create a colour scheme. Colours can be defined by numbers, so, if you choose a colour scheme you should specify the exact colour numbers. The numbering schemes will depend on whether or not you are using a digital device (RGB), a printed product (CMYK and Pantone) or a sign (RAL standard colours).

3) Business cards are available in different shapes. The most common shape will be rectangular 55mm x 85mm. (American and Australian sizes will differ) However, you can specify unique shapes. This option is best when printing large numbers because the penalty for specifying a non-standard shape will be high when spread over 250 cards. Shaped cards use die cutters.
Fairly standard modifications to shapes are rounding corners, adding a hole or specifying a square shape.

4) When laying out the card, keep in mind 3mm will normally cut off every side of the card.
Also, to be safe, keep important information (such as your logo and name) 3mm away from every edge.

5) Add the graphics, logo. High resolution images (300dpi) are usually required when printing; business cards are smaller so lower resolutions often work.

6) Add other details. Usually customers opt for two sided business cards.
Details you might add include:

• Persons name
• Company Name
• Job Title
• Phone numbers
• Email
• Web site
• Social Media
• Address
• Slogan, your unique selling point.

Keep in mind that 6pt sized text on the computer screen might look fine but illegible when printed at business card size.
Some card types use specialised strips, such as signature strips.

7) Choose the style and size of font(s).
Fonts are usually of three types... arty, serif (for example Times), Sans Serif (for example Calibri).
Above all else, check the text is easy to read.

8) Special finishes. Whilst you have a choice of having your cards printed using uncoated and coated stock; other specialised finishes are available. Nowadays, the most common is a lamination. Usually gloss or matt. But, also available: embossing (raised), debossed (sunk), foiled and spot varnished. Embossing will create an effect on the reverse of the card so, best factor this in when considering double sided cards.
Other unique ideas for business cards are scented cards, sandwiched cards to increase thickness, unusual materials (magnetic, steel, transparent).
Another common option is the folded business card.

9) Double check everything (proofing). Consider the design... is it cluttered, is readable. And the accuracy of the information, are the phone numbers correct?

Did I miss anything? Please contact us if you need any further help.