Business Cards That Actually Work: A Simple Guide to Getting It Right

Let's talk about Business Cards. You know, those little pieces of paper that can make or break a first impression. In a world full of digital contacts, a well-designed business card still matters. Why? Because when you hand someone a card, they remember you.
At East London Printer, we've printed thousands of business cards, and we've seen what works—and what doesn’t. Here’s everything you need to know, in plain and simple terms.
Why Business Cards Still Matter
Think about the last time you:
Exchanged cards at a networking event
Left your card at a café or shop
Handed one to a potential client
That small piece of paper does something digital contacts can’t—it sticks around. A good business card:
Makes you look professional
Helps people remember you
Gives all your details in one place
Works even without Wi-Fi or batteries
The Basics: Size, Shape, and Thickness
Most business cards follow a simple standard:
Size: 85mm x 55mm (like a credit card)
Thickness: 350gsm (thick enough to feel quality)
But if you want to stand out, you can try:
Square cards – Different, but still professional
Rounded corners – A small touch that makes a big difference
Spot UV or foil – Adds a luxury feel
Design Tips That Actually Work
After printing cards for hundreds of businesses, here’s what makes a card memorable:
Keep it clean – Don’t cram too much text. Less is more.
Make your name stand out – People should remember who you are.
Use one strong color – Instead of five average ones.
Include only essential details – Phone, email, website.
Add a simple tagline – Tell people what you do in one line.
Paper Choices: What’s Best for You?
The paper you pick changes how your card looks and feels:
Glossy – Shiny finish, colors pop.
Matte – No fingerprints, professional look.
Recycled – Eco-friendly and stylish.
Luxury thick – Feels expensive in the hand.
Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
We’ve seen these mistakes too many times:
Tiny text – If people need glasses to read it, it’s too small.
Blurry logos – Always use high-resolution images.
Missing website – Where should people go to learn more?
Too much info – Stick to the basics.
Cheap paper – Thin cards feel flimsy and get thrown away.
Why Choose East London Printer?
Here’s why our customers keep coming back:
We check your files – No surprises when you get your cards.
True-to-life colors – What you see is what you get.
Fast turnaround – Need them tomorrow? We can help.
No minimum orders – Print 50 or 5,000—your choice.
Honest advice – We’ll tell you what works (and what doesn’t).
How It Works: Simple and Stress-Free
Send us your design (or use our templates).
Pick your paper and finish.
We print and deliver – fast.
Real-Life Examples That Work
Some of our most popular styles:
The Minimalist – Clean, lots of white space.
The Bold & Bright – One strong color, easy to spot.
The Luxury Look – Thick card with gold foil.
The Eco-Friendly – Recycled paper, simple design.
Special Finishes That Make a Difference
Want to stand out even more? Try:
Spot UV – Glossy highlights on a matte card.
Foil stamping – Gold, silver, or rose gold accents.
Die-cutting – Unique shapes that get noticed.
Your Questions, Answered
Q: How long does printing take?
A: Usually 2-3 days. Need it faster? Ask us about rush printing.
Q: What file format should I use?
A: PDF works best (with bleed marks if possible).
Q: Can you help with design?
A: Yes! We offer free advice to make your card perfect.
Ready to Print Your Business Cards?
Getting started is easy:
Email us your design: hello@eastlondonprinter.co.uk
Call for advice: +44 (0)20 7041 9649
Order online: https://eastlondonprinter.co.uk
Final Thought
Your business card is often the first thing people see from your brand. Don’t settle for "good enough." With the right design and printing, it can be something people keep—not throw away.
At East London Printer, we don’t just print cards—we help you make a lasting impression.