Best Business Card Paper Stock 2022

How to Choose the Best Paper for Business Cards

Besides making a visual design on a graphic design tool, there's so much to consider when creating business cards. The essential factor to consider when you want to make a business card design is choosing the correct stocks to suit your design plan. So significant is this decision that it can affect the final look of your proposed business card. It can also influence the texture and feel of your card.  We are big on how your card feels because it gives your final print an edge over other marketing materials. After all, The ability to touch and feel printed materials, especially business cards offer stronger memories and connections when compared with digital counterparts. The choice of business card stock also plays a significant role in the final appearance of your business card. In fact, The reflection and shine of your business card are primarily influenced by the choice of stock. Here, we've classified business card stocks according to their thickness and finish. These are the essential factors to consider when choosing stock for your business project (see also business banners).

Thick or Thin stocks?

Glossy, Matte, UV, or Uncoated Finishes?

Most times, each finish comes with its own set of recommended applications. And to be honest, no finish is necessarily better than the other. Here are the basics you should know concerning each standard finish along with a few recommendations for application.

Gloss

The gloss-coated stocks reward users with some protection to wear and moisture. It also gives a beautiful shine. Glossy stocks also have a hand in lending an extra bit of sharpness and contrast to the visual design of your business card. They are perfect for those who love a business card with a modern appearance. You can get a gloss finish in thick or thin stock. 

Matte

Similar to gloss stocks, matte business card stocks are also coated for protection purposes. But in the other sense, they are far less reflective when compared to gloss-finished stocks. With matte-finished stocks, colors appear more subdued but also remain solid without the “washed out” look common on most inferior business cards. This also makes them an excellent option for easy reading. Although, they also feel a tad bit less slick, and offer a pleasant texture. They are also high on classic designs and have a nice feel. But some protection is required

UV / High Gloss Finishes

UV / High Gloss coated stocks offer more contrast, shine, and vibrancy. It is best if your business card will contain a photo. The reason is that it will best bring out all the finer details. It is also an excellent choice for business cards with designs that should stand out dramatically. UV / High Gloss finishes are available in 12 pt. cardstock high gloss and  12 pt. High Gloss (UV) Front.

Coated Stock

This kind of stock is excellent for those who love sharp and crisp images. The reason is that ink stays on top of the paper. Besides, The more ink absorbs into a stock, the less intense the photos appear. Coated paper is widely favored among photographers, restaurants, designers, and artists because it sheds the best possible light on their images.

Most favored stocks for business cards | Paper Types

Asides from thickness or thinness and varying finishes, there are other stocks that one should understand before making a decision. These different stocks will help you decide which one is the best for your business's brand and the personality you'd like to portray.

Silk

As the name implies, silk business cards usually have a silky texture coupled with a matte finish. You can get them in any size, and you can also pick how thick or thin you want them to appear. For instance, the 16 point business cards are created with multiple layers stacked on top of each and also give room for unique die-cutting. That means you can opt for a single, double, or triple-layered card up to a 48 point thickness or you can go for less.

Suede

With suede business cards you get a soft, suede-like feel due to the usual suede lamination process that they undergo. They usually appear luxurious and elegant and are offered in black or several vibrant colors. You can get them in a wide range of points and sizes.

Cotton

Cotton cards feel less dense. Moreover, these cards may create a spongy feel for your business card. For this reason, do well you stay away from multiple layers if you decide to make them. Regardless of this limitation, cotton stocks are excellent for a letterpress business card effect. They can also handle a comprehensive range of designs; from minimalistic to extravagant. Order business cards online today.

FAQs

1. What is a good cardstock weight for business cards?

The most common paper weight for business cards is 300 GSM. Paper with a thickness of 14 Pt, or 0.014 inches, is sturdy and hefty, yet has some give and flexibility. Paper with a GSM of 400 to 450 is ideal for business cards.

2. What is the best card stock?

The best card stock for business cards is thicker and textured paper, such as linen. This type of paper will have a more luxurious feel to it and the ink won't run off too easily.

3. What kind of paper do you use for business cards?

Business cards are traditionally printed on a paper stock that is heavier than regular copy paper. The most common types of business card papers are:
-Cotton fiber, which has a glossy finish and feels soft to the touch
-Wood pulp, which is more durable and thicker than cotton fiber
-Recycled content with recycled fibers for an eco-friendly option 

4. What is standard business card thickness?

14pt is the thickness of a flyer or brochure, which is the standard for business cards. Greeting cards and manilla folders are about the same thickness as 16pt cards. The card will be thicker if the 'pt' value is higher.

5. What finish is best for business cards?

The best finish for business cards is a glossy finish. This will give the card a professional look and feel, which is perfect for professionals who want to make an excellent first impression on potential clients or employers.