How to: Design a simple business card
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How to: Design a simple business card

I returned from the IFB Conference with a stack of business cards, which I thought was fantastic. If you have a blog, a website, or especially a business (no matter how small), you should have business cards.

While they seem like a holdover from simpler times, there are a few reasons why handing a small square piece of paper to a potential client, contact, or friend is still an effective way to network.

1. It’s a tangible representation of a person and their brand.
2. It serves as a reminder for forgetful people. *coughmecough*
3. It’s like a little piece of art in your purse or pocket.
4. It makes you look professional.

The easy way

Even if you don’t have top-notch design skills, you can still try your hand at creating a business card. There are two easy ways to do this:

1. Logo + text

It’s as simple as putting your logo on one side and your contact info on the other. Creating a grid is an easy way to ensure everything lines up in an aesthetically pleasing way. Don’t be afraid to right-align your text or use portrait (vertical) orientation. Easy-peasy.
Easy business card design

2. Photo + text

There’s a good example of this at the end of the DIY lightbox post. If you create a product–crafts, jewelry, clothing, food, widgets–take a good photo of it and use the image on your card. Just crop it a bit and add your contact info. You can sample colors from the image to find complementary shades for the text.

Simple business card design Cincinnati

Printing

With all of the online printing services it’s easy to have cards printed inexpensively. I’ve had good experiences with and heard positive feedback about:

Don’t forget to see what your local print shop can do! If you’re in  Cincinnati, Seemless has extremely fast turnaround.

Most of the sites mentioned prompt you to upload an image file (JPG or TIFF) or PDF–several even offer die-cutting and more advanced features. For example, at Overnight Prints, you can add rounded corners for an additional $2 per 100 cards.

Enforce your identity

Make sure your cards reinforce the visual branding on your website, labels, packaging, etc. Your goal is to create an identity for your business or product, so all of your materials should have the same look and feel. If you’re feeling really creative, you can also use stickers, stamps, or even handwritten cards for a personal, crafty touch!

12 Comments
  • Fajr | Stylish Thought

    September 22, 2010 at 10:26 am

    Couldn’t have come a more perfect time. I’m redesigning my cards and I’ll take these tips into account! Thanks T and great meeting you m’dear!

    • tamia

      September 23, 2010 at 2:36 pm

      Glad to help! Great meeting you too, Fajr! (I promise I’m saying it correctly in my head now.)

  • arsha

    September 22, 2010 at 12:00 pm

    my vote is for MOO they have the best quality cards for the price. if you want to make a statement. go with MOO.

    • tamia

      September 23, 2010 at 2:35 pm

      @arsha I really like their feature that lets you print different images on one side. Genius!

  • Grit and Glamour

    September 22, 2010 at 1:56 pm

    Great tips…I just ordered some crazy mini Moo cards after seeing Kristina’s on Pretty Shiny Sparkly. I’m going to include her post and yours in my next Sunday Coffee post!

    ♥ V
    http://www.gritandglamour.com

  • summer

    September 22, 2010 at 2:34 pm

    great tips

  • Leia

    September 26, 2010 at 2:31 am

    Excellent post! You’re making me want to create & design new business cards now! 😀

  • Beautifully Invisible

    September 28, 2010 at 3:27 pm

    Thank you for the wonderful tips. I found you via Grit and Glamour’s Sunday Coffee post – looking forward to checking out your blog in more detail!

  • julie

    October 31, 2010 at 9:22 pm

    Great tips. I’ve also had good experience ordering my business cards from AllBusinessCards.com.

    p.s. I’m now craving cupcakes…Those business cards are delicious!

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