This article has been created to assist potential buyers through the somewhat unsettling decision of choosing a business card, letterhead or matching envelope online.
Although there are many options available, they can really be narrowed down to three distinct solutions which will be based on the answers to some preliminary questions.
Questions you will need to ask yourself
- How many ink colors will be used?
- Which paper type do I prefer? Is there a specific image I would like to convey?
- Do I have artwork or do I want to take the time to work with the art department to create it?
Option A: Customized Stationery
The most straight-forward solution which will help you get ready in no time. If you do not have any artwork, or perhaps just a logo, this is the solution designed for you. There are some restrictions or limitations, however. They are outlined below:
Ink colors offered (Free):
- black
- blue
- red
- green
- reflex blue
- burgundy
- brown
- teal
Premium ink colors offered (extra charge applies):
- tan
- hunter green
- navy blue
- tan
Restrictions:
- up to 2 ink colors only
- printed within offered layouts with online options available
- no specific PMS color can be used
- no bleeds available (no print touches the edge of the card)
- no backprinting
Options available:
- Paper choices (see chart below)
- Raised ink (thermographic ink)
Paper options include: standard paper (bond), glossy, laid paper finish (texture with vertical lines), linen paper (textured paper, embossed finish of linen cloth ), recycled, Strathmore (premium pulps), Crane's Crest (100% cotton).
Option B: Stationery with your own design
This is a great option if
- our layouts are not sufficient
- a specific PMS color needs to be matched (up to 2 ink colors)
- artwork already exists
- artwork needs to be designed (we do offer the graphic design for FREE on custom products)
On custom products, a quote will be calculated for you with any and all options required.
Restrictions:
- up to 2 ink colors also
Options available:
- Paper choices (see chart below)
- Specific PMS colors to match all your existing products
- Raised ink (thermographic ink)
- Bleeds
- Backprinting (great for maps or appointment time)
Option C: Full Color Stationery
This is the ONLY option available if you are using more than 2 ink colors at any time. This is currently the most common and affordable solution.
Restrictions:
- no specific PMS color can be used
- no raised ink
Options available:
- Paper choices (see chart below)
- Rounded corners
Samples
Samples are available on all of our stationery products and are great as long as there is a general idea of the product needed.
Otherwise, a stationery kit can be requested and mailed. It will contain different paper samples for further review.
Product Comparison Chart
| CUSTOMIZED | YOUR OWN DESIGN | FULL COLOR | |
| PAPER CHOICES | standard (bond) | 80# smooth or laid | 14 pt C2S gloss cover |
| glossy | 12 pt glossy | 14 pt C1S gloss cover | |
| recycled | 80# recycled | 16 pt C2S gloss cover | |
| laid paper | 80# classic laid | 13 pt recycled matte cover | |
| linen paper | 80# linen | ||
| Strathmore | 80# Strathmore | ||
| Crane's Crest | 80# Crane's Crest | ||
| RAISED INK | yes | yes | no |
| BLEEDS | no | yes, up to 3 | yes |
| BACKPRINTING | no | yes | yes |
| ROUNDED CORNERS | no | no | yes |
| TURNAROUND TIME | 3-7 days | 9-10 days | 3-5 days |
Choosing a paper type
If you intend to write on your business cards, glossy stocks should NOT be used. After that, the choice is completely open. Beyond personal preference, here are a few professional pointers:
- the thicker the point size, the thicker and heavier the card
- some heavier stocks will have more impact, whereas textured stocks may convey a more professional image
- C1S means "coated on one side" - commonly used for one-sided glossy cards (back is matte)
- C2S means "coated on both sides" - commonly used for two-sided printing
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