Once upon a time, a business card used to be a straightforward affair: a piece of white card with the necessary information printed in a matter-of-fact style. They were not inherently beautiful; they were there to serve a purpose. Your business card would generally look the same whether you were an accountant or a gardener. Cut to the present day, everything has changed completely in the world of business card printing. Finding the appropriate kind of card to represent your company to customers and express the impression you want them to have can be completely daunting given the wide range of paper stocks, print finishes, coatings, and dies that are available.

What is business card material?

The "business card material" is the sort of paper or plastic you use for your business card. Usually, the card is three inches in length and two inches in width approximately. Your business card's presentation—on paper or plastic—can reflect your personal brand and attitude towards your industry. You can use it to guide your decision on your professional presentation style. The business cards should, at the very least, appear sleek and robust enough for your connections to use after meeting you.

Here are some factors to consider while selecting the material for business cards:

Weight

A business card's weight describes how substantial the material is. Perhaps the feel of thicker paper is more opulent and robust. 

Thickness

Your card's thickness can increase its toughness. However, a card resembling a mini cardboard can be heavy and awkward to hold.

Color

Materials are available in a variety of colors, and using this to set oneself out from competitors' business cards can be easy. A modern individual might experiment with bold, eye-catching colors, while strictly professional business cards might adhere to whites and creams.

Printing capability

Make sure the material you select during business card printing can survive the printing you want as it will have your contact information printed on it. For instance, some inks may work better with porous paper, while embossing may not be supported by thinner materials.

Finish

The appearance of the paper or plastic after the maker prints and processes it is referred to as the material's finish. It is available with glossy or matte finishes.

What are the most common types of business card material?

You can make your plastic or paper business cards out of the following options:

1. Card stock -

Although it may also be referred to as cover stock by some printing businesses, cardstock is a typical type of paper used for business cards. It is strong and can withstand heavy use, making it a fantastic option for business cards that are frequently handled by many individuals for extended periods of time. With increasing weight, the paper becomes more rigid. It is available in textured, matte, and glossy finishes.

2. Matte stock -

Due to its smooth, non-shiny appearance, matte stock is a common kind of paper for business cards. This can give your business cards a finished appearance that is pricey and professional. A matte business card can also be written on because the ink sits well on the finish. If you want to write messages on your cards, this is vital. There are several colors available for matte stock, but the most popular ones are creams, whites, beiges, and tans. 

3. Glossy stock -

These cards are covered with an aqueous coating, a transparent, water-based, quick-drying coating that results in a glossy appearance. The finish is more eco-friendly than a UV coating or varnish because it is made of water-based chemicals. The glossy texture on these business cards allows the colors to be displayed to their greatest potential. Due to the glossy surface protecting the colors and preventing blurring, you can incorporate a graphic on your business card. By shielding it from tearing or water damage, it also lengthens the life of the business card. 

4. Textured stock -

Matte or glossy textures are options you get for textured card paper. A texture, like a houndstooth, dots, or a basket weave, is pressed into the material to give it a specific feel. Your business card will have a more tactile depth if it is printed on textured stocks, which may be found in a wide variety of colors. The printing on these cards is often one-sided due to the pressed technique. Keep your texture subtle, though, as this kind of detail on your card might be confusing or cumbersome.

It can be difficult to choose the best paper type for your business card at the time of business card printing. But given its significance, it is advised to exert effort to make the best decision. Think about how you plan to use the business cards and the impression you want to make. Of course, keep your budget in mind. You can get away with using thinner card stock if they are going to be bulk-mailed out or put in a cardholder at the front desk of your office or event. A thicker card stock, however, will survive longer and make your cards stand out if you intend to personally distribute them at significant events or social gatherings.