When creating business cards, your chosen paperweight can affect how the recipients view you. You want to print your information on a quality card stock that conveys your brand’s high professionalism and sophistication. Knowing how paper weight is measured and which weights are ideal for various purposes can help you create high-quality business cards.
Business Card Paper Weight
Paper weight represents how sturdy or heavy the paper is. It’s measured in GSM (Grams per Square Meter). The higher the GSM, the heavier the paper. Standard paper weights range from 75 to 120 GSM. Some people choose paperweights as high as 350 GSM or more, which suggests a higher quality product. Your choice will depend on your budget, the impression you intend to give, and other purposes of the card.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Card Weight
1. Durability
When giving someone your business card, you want it to last the longest period of time possible. These cards experience a lot of wear and tear because they’re often passed around, stored in wallets and purses, and taken on trips. A lighter paper weight may not withstand the tossing and turning it experiences. Invest in a heavier, more sturdy card stock to give your cards a greater lifespan. They may not rip easily, and your information will stay legible longer, increasing the card’s effectiveness.
2. Appearance
Heavier business cards are often more attractive. Since you want to make an excellent first impression, this is a factor to consider. The extra thickness makes it easier to print fine lines, intricate designs, and detailed images on the cards. You can print a full-color version of your logo or other information for a beautiful finish. By creating a lasting impression, the recipients may remember your brand for a long time and refer to your information whenever necessary.
3. Feel
You want your business card to be tactile and inviting to the touch. Heavier cards have a nice, substantial feel that lighter cards don’t possess. A subtle difference in weight can give recipients the impression that your brand is serious about what it does and is willing to invest in quality products. It boosts your company’s professionalism and may increase the chances that people will remember you after the meeting. Even if printing high-quality business cards with heavier paper may cost a bit more, it may be worth it in the long run.
How to Choose a Weight for Your Business Cards
Every business is different and has its own needs for business cards. Some companies prefer a thinner paperweight, while others choose heavier options. Here are some factors to consider to help you decide the ideal paper weight for your business cards:
Budget
Before creating your cards, determine how much you’re willing to invest in the project. Small businesses and startups may not have the budget to purchase large amounts of heavier paper. The standard paper weight is usually good enough to create a substantial, affordable card. If you have a bigger budget, thicker, high-quality business cards can give you a professional look.
Intended Impression
Choose heavier paper for your cards to impress clients and customers. Heavier cards have a luxurious feel and may convey a sense of professionalism and quality. When recipients view you as someone serious about what they do, they may be more likely to do business with you. Thinner cards may do the trick if you’re aiming at just basic information exchange.
Card Design
Some people prefer simple designs with minimal information, while others use more detailed and intricate designs. If you have a complex design with several images, choose heavier cards to prevent the design from getting ruined during handling. If you just have a few lines of text, lighter card stocks may be enough.
Create High-Quality Business Cards
Investing in a heavier card stock may be worth it for its extended lifespan, attractive appearance, and quality feel. By choosing the right paper weight, you can create a card that may enhance your brand image and help increase its recognition. With an excellent first impression, you may create potential opportunities for your business. A few extra grams in weight can make all the difference.
