Types of Business Cards by Materials
Initially, business cards were made from thick paper, and the information was applied manually. Today, various materials are used in printing, from cardboard to ultra-modern carbon fiber plastic. Each of them has its advantages, differing in appearance and tactile sensations.
Paper Business Cards
This is a traditional material for making business cards, characterized by affordability and low cost. At the same time, thick paper provides virtually unlimited creative possibilities: you can hand out cards to partners and clients with traditional designs and black printing on a white background, or, for example, black cards with details in gold foil. Paper business cards can come in various shapes, sizes, colors, and with special finishing options like Spot UV and foiling.
On designer cardstock, you can engage visual and tactile sensations, as well as stand out among competitors' standard solutions. Linen embossing, felt texture, or watercolor effect create a unique surface texture that leaves a special impression. This material also ensures color brightness and optimal paint adhesion, resisting mechanical impact and ultraviolet radiation while maintaining a presentable appearance for a long time. Complex images can even be printed on these business cards.
Triplex business cards are a type of multi-layered cards printed on high-quality paper in three layers of different colors. To convey an atmosphere of affluence, business cards are finished with foil and use full-color printing.
Plastic Business Cards
Plastic cards are a durable and attractive alternative to paper and cardboard cards. They retain printed information well, do not crease, are resistant to moisture, dirt, and tearing. Customers can choose different thicknesses, glossy or matte surfaces, single-color or full-color printing. Full-color plastic business cards are especially suitable for photos and graphics with gradients. Panels for signatures or QR codes can be added to the cards.
Transparent business cards, besides their unique appearance, have a long service life. The properties of the material allow it to be used for loyalty cards, discount cards, bonus cards, gift cards, and VIP cards. Unconventional visual effects can be created on transparent business cards - printing on the back looks as if it is located behind the graphics and text on the front.
Metal Business Cards
Metal business cards made of stainless steel or polished bronze have a memory and return to their shape after bending. Thanks to the metal's resistance to external influences, even daily use does not lead to dulling or corrosion. Photochemical processes and milling allow for creating unconventional patterns and perforation. A metal business card will represent a successful business in the eyes of partners.
Wooden Business Cards
This material is another unique opportunity to attract the attention of potential partners or clients. For such business cards, high-quality wood from noble species such as Finnish birch, bamboo, cherry, or black walnut is selected. Business cards are cut from a large-sized sheet, giving each a unique pattern and character.
To ensure the structural integrity of the card, a 3-layer material similar to plywood is used. The outer facing surfaces are made of natural veneer, while the middle layer is made of high-density wood fiberboard. This structure ensures strength and allows for cutting complex patterns without the risk of breakage. Text and graphics are engraved on the surface using a high-power CO2 laser with a resolution of 1200 dots per inch. The exceptional accuracy and power of the device allow for decorative patterns and other design elements to be created.
When choosing a material, it is necessary to consider the type of business, the purpose of the business card, the print run, and the budget. For example, to emphasize status and individuality, you can use designer cardboard or triplex business cards. For widespread use, paper or plastic may be suitable, while wood or metal can be chosen to attract the audience's attention. At the same time, we should mention electronic free business cards, which can easily be shared with partners, updated with data, and undergo radical design changes.