There are a number of posts out there with collections of really cool and unique business card designs. Some of my favorites are CreativeBits, CrazyLeaf Design Blog, and Daily Poetics. While these cards are definitely unique and fun to look at, many of them are not realistic for use as everyday cards in terms of production costs. Not to mention some of them would be very difficult to carry around in your pocket or wallet.
There are other more affordable ways to make your business card pop. One of the easiest ways is by creating a well-designed memorable card with clear content. Here are some examples of colorful business cards and others with simple but effective designs (and some business card design tips, too!).
Do you want a business card that has a little more zing but is cost effective at the same time? Here are some other elements you can incorporate into your business cards to make them even more unique and impressive…and make sure they get a second look after they’ve made it to the recipient’s pocket.
1. Rounded Corners
Having all or some of the corners on your business card rounded can make a huge difference in the overall look and feel of your cards.
Where to Get Them:
Overnight Prints, around $45 USD for 500 cards
2. Magnets
It’s not a new idea, but making magnets out of your business cards is a way to create a useful product with your contact information. And they are more likely to be stuck on the fridge and less likely to be tossed in the trash.
Where to Get Them:
Printing for Less, around $100 USD for 500 cards
3. Folded
Folded cards let you stand them up like a table tent on an exhibit or display, and you can make them mini brochures with additional information about your company or services.
Where to Get Them:
48HourPrint (folded with offset), around $70 for 500 cards
4. Mini Cards
Mini cards are business cards that are smaller than the standard size. This can make the cards stand out, yet those receiving them can still stick them in their pocket or stack them with other business cards.
Where to Get Them:
Moo, around $20 USD for 100 cards
5. Die Cut
Just like mini cards, business cards in a different shape can be especially memorable. You can try something as simple as a circular card or create a custom shape.
Where to Get Them:
PsPrint, around $90 USD for 500 cards
6. Rip Cards
Rip cards are traditionally used as door hangers or rack cards with a tear-off piece at the bottom that can be a coupon or business card. But you can create your own rip cards in business card size. Use it for a tear-off basic HTML cheat sheet, a hex code color table, or even a list of resource sites for your clients. You can do this by using the back of your cards, too.
Where to Get Them:
Jakprints, $20 USD additional per 1,000 cards
7. Plastic
For a stand-out card, try a clear plastic design. Not only are they creative and different than most other cards, but they are extremely durable.
Where to Get Them:
AllTimePRINT, around $280 USD for 500 cards
8. Recycled
Recycled cards are a great way to lessen your carbon footprint while creating a unique image for your business. There are a lot of options out there from recycled paper, to soy-based ink, to reused paper and materials.
Where to Get Them:
Sustainable Group (paper from 100% recycled fibers), around $115 USD for 500 cards
En Masse Media (100% post consumer recycled paper), around $150 USD for 1,000 cards
United States Business Card Company (paper is from breakfast cereal boxes), around $235 USD for 500 cards
How do you make your business cards stand out? What have you found to be the most effective format?
Image credit: Brian Lary
Alyssa GregoryAlyssa Gregory is a digital and content marketer, small business consultant, and the founder of the Small Business Bonfire — a social, educational and collaborative community for entrepreneurs.
