If you’re wondering how to design a business card, this post is for you. Here are our recommendations on how to design a solid business card that is both functional and professional.
The Business of Business Cards
Business cards are an essential part of your branding. A properly done business card will meet the criteria of numerous professional needs, such as:
- Advertising
- Brand recognition
- Call-to-Action
- Contact Information
When designed right, these multi-tools can leave a lasting impression as a visual extension of your brand identity. They’re handy and hold key business details such as name, contact details and brand logo.
How to Design a Business Card in 5 Steps
Step 1. Select your Dimensions
Standard business card dimensions are 2″x3.5″. If you’re going for practicality, stick to that size. Then, it’s as simple as determining whether you prefer landscape orientation for a classic approach or portrait orientation for a modern twist.
However, if you really want to stand out for a current campaign or overall brand strategy, there are no rules against going bigger, adding folds, or incorporating a custom shape.
One trend that has been gaining popularity are business cards measuring 3.5″x4″ that are folded in half. This gives more room to stay within that wallet size but makes room for expanded brand messaging.
Here are some creative business card ideas if budget is less of a concern than making an impression when it comes to your business card strategy.
Step 2. Select Your content
Next, determine what you want to place and where. With two sides at your disposal–for a standard business card, at least–you can dedicate one side of the card exclusively to a logo or call to action, leaving the other side to hold the contact details.
Knowing what you want to communicate is half the battle; the other half is how to actually incorporate it smoothly.
Step 3. Incorporate Your Logo and Graphic elements
A business card should fit neatly within the boundaries of your established brand identity. It’s a reflection of your color scheme, font choice, logo, and the person handing them out.
Hire a Professional
If you still don’t know where to begin when it comes to assembling a print-ready file or you’d prefer to leave your designing to the professionals, you’re in good hands with our in-house design team.
Fill out our creative brief to get started or contact your designated Delzer Rep.
Step 4. Assemble Your art
Now, bring it all together. Remember to keep bleed, trim, and safety lines in mind when setting up your art.
Follow the below area restrictions to make sure your standard-sized business card file is print-ready.
- Bleed area – (2.25″x3.75″): If art extends to the edge of the trim line, it needs to extend past that to the full bleed area.
- Trim line – (2″x3.5″): This is the final print size where the artwork will be trimmed.
- Safety line – (1.75″x3.25″): Keep text elements within this area so they won’t be compromised in the print and trimming process.
This visual helps illustrate important print areas to keep in mind as you assemble your business card design.
Step 5. Consider special finishes and Effects
Different substrates can give your business card a whole new effect. A paper stock with unique texture, color, or metallic sheen can drive home a business card’s style if it fits with your brand identity.
Depending on the quantity you’re interested in ordering, certain varnishes and spot finishes can even be run on our offset press.
And, as mentioned in Step 1, if your business card strategy is tied to a specific shape, dies can also be made for a totally custom look.
TIP: Still want something a bit different in shape & cut but more budget-friendly than a die? Consider getting rounded corners for a more economical customization.
In Conclusion
Setting up your business card properly for print production is just as important as the content that makes up the space. By following these steps, you’ll have a professional business card that stands out positively as one of the first impressions you make with the recipient.
GET STARTED ON YOUR NEXT business Card Order WITH DELZER:
Tell us what you’re envisioning for your next project.
