Guide to Choosing the Right
Thickness of Business Card
The thickness of business card matters in networking and in making first impressions. The right thickness will help you achieve your goal in marketing your brand. In this guide, we’ll discuss some factors to consider in choosing the right thickness. By the end of this blog, you’ll know how to design your card based on its thickness and weight.
Table of Contents
Why Business Card Thickness Matters
In today’s digital world of online networking “Is a business card still relevant?” Yes! A business card is still an effective tool for leaving a lasting impression. When designing a business card, the main attraction is the design. Yet, another significant factor to consider is the thickness of business card. Let us discuss why this may affect your company’s image:
Perceived Quality
Always think about the impression you want to leave with your potential clients. Thin cards are perceived as cheap or unimportant, whereas thicker cards suggest substance.
Durability
The thicker the cards are the less possibility for them to get damaged in transit or while carried. Durable cards show the message that you want to convey to receivers.
Impression Matters
A thick card looks more premium and is likely to stand out and leave a lasting impression. This feature makes the recipient more inclined toward your business.
Printability
Thicker cards allow more intricate printing options, such as embossing or engraving. These printing techniques can make your logo/brand name stand out.
Comparing Different Card Thickness
The next question to discuss is “How thick is a credit card?” The thickness will be determined depending on your company’s branding style and image. Yet, here are some guidelines to consider:
- Standard (14-16 pt): This thickness sets the balance between durability and cost-effectivity.
- Premium (18-20 pt): For business cards that need a luxurious look and feel opt for thicker cards. This may be more expensive, but it is effective in making a lasting impression.
- Ultra-Thick (24+pt): This thickness shows luxury and exclusivity on business cards.
Card Thickness According to Nationality
- Japan: Presentation – Japanese cards are thicker which measures around 0.3 mm – 0.4 mm.
- United States: Sophistication – The business card thickness varies from 0.25 mm to 0.35 mm. Americans tend to favor thicker cards that focus on the design and content.
- China: Thick – Chinese business cards feature Chinese and English content. These cards’ usual thickness range from 0.35mm to 0.5 mm.
- Europe: Variations – In Europe, there is a significant variation in business card thickness across countries. German business cards are thicker around 0.3mm to 0.4mm. French business cards however often prefer thinner cards that measure 0.25 mm to 0.35mm
- India: Traditional – Traditional Indian business cards tend to be thicker, the usual size is around 0.4 mm to 0.6 mm. Additionally, Indian business cards feature a mix of intricate designs and vibrant colors.
- Middle East: Luxury – Business cards in the Middle East are thicker, often exceeding 0.5mm. This thickness symbolizes opulence, quality, and the importance of personal relationships in business.
Metal vs Paper Card Thickness
Metal Business Card
Business card thickness mm comes in 0.3mm to 0.8mm. The standard business card thickness is around 0.5mm which gives them a much weighty feel when held. The thickness enhances the perceived value and quality of metal business cards.
Paper Business Card
Business card thickness in inches varies generally between 0.0098 inches to 0.0197 inches. Yet, to determine the right thickness depends on the paper weight and type.
Here’s the business card thickness chart for you to see more about the difference:
Why Business Card Weight Matters
A well-designed business card makes an impact on potential clients. Yet, it’s not the only factor to consider. The weight of the chosen material can make a major difference. Here’s why it’s important:
First Impression
A card that weighs feels more essential. It conveys a sense of quality and professionalism that leaves a positive impression.
Perceived Value
A sturdy and well-designed card suggests reliability and attention to detail. This perceived value can impact potential clients’ trust in your brand.
Print Quality
The paper weight of your business card can also affect the print quality. The heavier the stock the better the surface printing. This allows for sharper text and vibrant colors.
Here’s the difference between paper weight for business cards and metal weight for business cards:
Comparing Different Card Weights
Paper Material Weights:
- Lightweight (90-110gsm): Ideal for mass-produced, budget-friendly business cards.
- Medium Weight (250-350gsm): The most popular weight for paper cards that is durable and looks professional.
- Heavyweight (400gsm+): Offers a high-end feel that is reserved for luxury cards.
Metal Material Weights:
- Lightweight (0.3mm-0.5mm): Thin, flexible, and suitable for minimalist designs.
- Medium Weight (0.6mm-0.8mm): Offers a balance between durability and weight.
- Heavyweight (1mm+): Provides a solid durability that lasts.
How to Choose the GSM of
Your Business Card
When choosing the GSM of your business card several factors are important:
- Consider Your Brand: The GSM should align with your brand. For a more approachable and informal brand, it is best to opt for a lighter GSM. But, for brands that are in a creative field, thicker cards are perfect.
- Think About Usage: What do you want recipients to do with your business cards? If you intend to keep your card for a long period, a higher GSM will ensure it lasts. A lower GSM may serve for disposable or event-specific cards.
- Test Different GSMs: Don’t be afraid to ask for samples or print a small batch with several GSM options. This enables you to feel the texture and see how the pattern appears on various cardstock.
- Consider Your Budget: Higher GSM paper is usually more expensive. When finalizing your decision, consider your financial limits.
- Consult a Professional: It is best to consult a professional printer or designer. They can offer help in choosing the most appropriate GSM for your branding.
How to Design the Business Card Depending on Thickness and Weight
Business cards are the initial point of contact between a potential client and you. When creating your business card, it is essential to consider the details of how to design them. Here are some factors to consider:
Visiting Card Thickness:
- The thickness of your card should convey a sense of quality and professionalism.
- The higher the GSM the thicker and sturdier the card will be.
- A thicker cardstock tends to be more durable and is less likely to crease or tear.
Business Cards with Painted Edges:
- Painted edges involve adding a colorful edge to cards to make them striking.
- The painted edge should compliment your brand colors or add a pop of color that sets your card apart from the rest.
- The paint to be applied should still maintain professionalism.
Design Tips for Different Thicknesses:
- Consider the thickness of your cardstock when designing your business card. Thicker cards may allow for more intricate design elements.
- For thinner cards, focus on minimalist designs to prevent them from feeling flimsy.
- Ensure that the text and graphics on your card are legible, regardless of the thickness.
Classic Business Card vs
Luxury Business Card
When it comes to business cards, there are two main types: classic and luxury. Below are some distinctions:
Classic Business Cards
Classic business cards are the traditional choice for professionals. Here are some key characteristics of classic business cards:
- Standard Thickness: Classic business card standard thickness ranges from 14-16 pt
- Affordability: For budget-conscious professionals classic cards are an excellent choice.
- Versatility: Classic cards offer limitless design possibilities.
- Accepted: Classic cards fit in most cardholders and wallets.
Luxury Business Cards
Luxury cards covey a sense of exclusivity and prestige. This kind of business card is often used by professionals who want to make a strong impact. Here’s what sets luxury business cards apart:
- Enhanced Thickness: Luxury business cards are thicker than standard ones. They range from 32pt to 50pt, which amounts to 0.032-0.050 inches or 800-1250 microns. This thickness is comparable to that of a credit card.
- Premium Materials: Specialty papers, wood, and metal are some of the materials used.
- Embossing and Foiling: Luxury cards can be embossed, debossed, stamped, and UV spot.
- Memorability: Luxury business cards make a statement and are memorable. They can leave a lasting impression on clients and potential partners.
- A regular credit card is approximately 0.30 inch or 0.76mm thick.
- Traditional or classic business cards range from 0.014 – 0.015 inches thick, making them thinner.
- Luxury business cards are thicker than credit cards, ranging in thickness from 0.032 to 0.050 inches.
Glossy, Matte, UV, or Uncoated
Now, let’s address the key question: does the surface finish affect the thickness of a business card? The short answer is yes, but the extent of this impact varies depending on the finish chosen. Let’s explore how each type of finish can influence the thickness of your business cards.
Glossy Finish
Increase in Thickness: This surface finish is created by adding a thin layer of gloss onto the card. This extra layer can increase the thickness of the card, by a fraction of a mil.
Matte Finish
Minimal Impact: The matte coating applied is thin so it has an impact on the card’s thickness.
UV Finish
Noticeable Increase: UV finishing creates a glossy layer that also protects the surface. This finishing option can make a great impact on thickness.
Uncoated Finish
Minimal Impact: Uncoated finishing features a natural feel which creates a minimal impact. The absence of a coating means there’s no extra layer that contributes to thickness.
Partner with Professionals
By now, you should know the right thickness to use for your business card or at least have an idea of how to choose one. If not, save the hassle and work with professionals to do the job for you. Foison Metal is a team of designers and engineers who are able to help you with designing and producing. We are experts in producing metal business cards that look and feel luxurious. We accept original designs or if none is available, we can create one for you. Let us know your design idea, and we’ll do the rest. The best thing about our design help is it’s all for free!