A Guide to Business Card Paper and Finishes

Your business card is often the first thing people hold that represents your business. Here's how to choose one that feels right.

Size

The standard UK business card is 85 × 55mm, which fits neatly into wallets and card holders.

Paper weight

Paper weight is measured in gsm (grams per square metre). The higher the number, the thicker the card. A heavyweight card around 400–450gsm feels solid and premium in the hand.

Finishes

  • Silk: a smooth, slightly sheened finish that makes colours look crisp. A great all-rounder.
  • Uncoated: a natural, textured feel that's easy to write on. Popular with creative and eco-conscious brands.
  • Folded: twice the space, ideal for loyalty cards, price lists or appointment details.

Design tips

  • Include only what people need: name, role, phone, email and website.
  • Use your logo and brand colours so your card matches everything else you print.
  • Leave some white space. A cluttered card is hard to read.

Browse our business cards, or add our Design Service and we'll design them for you.