Make Business Cards
Want to make business cards yourself? It can be a lot of fun, if you're the creative type; you may be able to make a business card that's really imaginative or unusual.
Or perhaps you're thinking of making your own business card because you want to save money? Before you make business cards, I suggest you look at the true costs and disadvantages, too. It's certainly possible, if you own word processing software and a decent printer. However, the process can be much more frustrating and not as inexpensive as many do-it-yourselfers hope.
What You'll Need to Make Business Cards
- Business Card or Word Processing Software
You can use common word-processing programs such as Microsoft Word or Publisher to make business cards - you can even download templates from Microsoft or Avery. However, software designed specifically to print business cards may produce better results, especially since you often have the option to use built-in backgrounds too. One popular business card software program is Business Card Designer Plus ($29.95).
- Paper or Card Stock of Appropriate Weight
If you want to print your own cards, you'll need business card paper or stationery. The advantage of buying paper that's designed especially for business cards (such as Avery business cards) is that it's exactly the right size and usually comes with software or templates to help you design your card to fit. However, some business card paper is pre-perforated and flimsy, which looks and feels unprofessional.
Alternatively, you can buy your own cardstock, print your business cards, and cut them out yourself - but that's very time-consuming and it's difficult to make accurate cuts, which means a lot of waste.
- Printer
A good quality printer, preferably one that can print in color, is mandatory. Don't use "draft" or "quick" print settings - print using the best resolution possible. Keep in mind that most inks are not waterproof, although you may be able to find waterproof cartridges for your printer.
The True Cost of Making Business Cards
Actually, most business owners and entrepreneurs find that making their own business cards costs more than it saves. It's tough to make homemade business cards that meet the quality and professional expectations of your potential clients. It's also a time-consuming process.
Many people make their own business cards when they only need a few specific cards, not a huge order - but with the advent of online business card printers that print as few as 20 cards, that's no longer a good reason.
It's also easy these days to add your own artwork to professionally-printed business cards, making them as unique as you want while still conveying your professionalism. (Speaking of unique business cards, I have a business card that was printed on cardboard. It's rather clever, but it won't fit in any of my business card organizers! Something to consider...)
A Better Alternative
Why not make business cards online? Many online business card printers make it easy to create your own business cards, offering thousands of backgrounds (templates) to choose from or giving you the option to upload your own artwork. Click here for an overview of making online business cards.
One of the most well-regarded of these online business card printers is Prints Made Easy, and they're currently running a special. You can get 100 free business cards - no ads on the back, no catch, just pay for shipping - or $14.99 off your order of more than 100 business cards. The company has an excellent reputation, even a money back guarantee. The 100 business card free offer may be changed or pulled at any time, but as far as I know is still available.
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