Let’s be honest for a second – how many business cards have you received this year that you actually kept? Probably not many. Most cards get handed over, glanced at, and either tossed in a drawer or straight into the bin. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
A well-designed, well-printed business card can make a lasting impression. It can be the one thing someone keeps in their wallet, sticks to their pinboard, or even passes on to someone else. And at SBS Printers here in Greenwich, we know exactly how to help you create business cards that stand out… for all the right reasons.
Whether you’re running a small business, freelancing, or promoting your art or services, here’s how to create custom business cards that people actually keep.
Quality Over Everything
First up, the card itself needs to feel good. If your business card feels flimsy or cheap, it says the same about your brand – harsh, but true! On the other hand, a sturdy, premium-feeling card tells someone you care about the details. It gives a professional edge, even before they’ve read a word.
At SBS, we always recommend printing on at least 350 gsm card stock – it’s thick, durable, and feels like quality. Then, you can take it further with finishes like:
Soft-touch matte lamination – velvety and smooth, it’s one of our most popular options
Gloss lamination – bold and vibrant, especially great for photos or full-colour designs
Textured or recycled stocks – if you want a natural, eco-conscious vibe
You’ll feel the difference the moment you pick it up. And so will your customers.
Nail the Design
A brilliant design is what takes your business card from functional to unforgettable. Your card should represent you – your brand, your personality, and what you do.
Some quick design tips:
Prioritise readability. Use big, bold text for your name and title; clean fonts only
Stick to your brand’s colours. Consistency builds recognition
Make space. Avoid clutter; white space is your friend
Use both sides. One side for your contact info, the other for your logo, slogan, or a QR code
QR codes are truly revolutionary. Link one to your website, portfolio, menu, booking page, or Instagram. They make it easy for someone to take the next step right away. They may seem a bit techy, but they’re actually simple to make.
If you’re not sure where to start, drop into our shop near Greenwich University and chat through your ideas with us. We can show you design samples and help you create something totally unique.
Think Outside the Box (or Rectangle)
Sure, the standard size for a business card is 85mm x 55mm – but who says you have to stick to it?
We offer:
- Square cards for a modern feel
- Mini cards (great for minimalist designs)
- Folded cards to squeeze in extra info
- Rounded corners for a softer, friendlier look
Want your card to really stand out? Try a custom finish:
- Spot UV gloss – adds shine to specific elements, like your logo or name
- Foil printing – gold, silver, or rose gold gives it a luxe touch
- Embossing – adds texture and dimension
These premium touches turn a basic business card into something people want to show off. They look great, they feel great, and they’re way more likely to end up kept.
Make It Useful
Most people only keep things that are useful. So, make your card work harder. Here are a few clever ideas:
- Include a loyalty stamp space if you’re in food, drink, or beauty
- Use it as an appointment reminder
- Add a discount code on the back
- Create a mini price list or service menu
- Include a short, catchy message or quote they’ll remember
Cards that offer real value are much more likely to stay in someone’s wallet or on their desk.
Come Say Hi in Greenwich
We’ve got two physical shops in Greenwich, and we love when people pop in to chat through their ideas. Whether you’re printing your first set of cards or looking to refresh your brand, we’re here to help every step of the way.
We’ll walk you through design tips, paper choices, finishes, and get everything looking just right. You can even see samples in person, because feeling the card in your hand really does make all the difference. Pop into one of our Greenwich shops or drop us a message. We’ll help you make something worth keeping.
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