Business cards might be small, but they do a big job. Whether you're a tradesperson in Wymondham, a salon in Norwich or a consultant working across Norfolk, your card is often the first physical thing a customer keeps from you. A thin, flimsy card says one thing. A thick, well-designed card says something completely different.
Here's our guide to choosing business cards that suit your business, from paper weight and finish to design and quantity.
1. Start with the card thickness
Card weight is measured in gsm (grams per square metre). The higher the number, the thicker and sturdier the card. Our standard business cards are printed on 450gsm silk card, which feels noticeably more substantial than most cards people are handed. It doesn't bend in a wallet and gives an instant impression of quality.
2. Pick a finish: matt or soft touch
Lamination protects your card and changes how it looks and feels:
- Matt lamination gives a smooth, non-reflective finish that's easy to read and looks clean and professional. It's a great all-rounder.
- Soft touch lamination has a velvety, almost suede-like feel. People notice it the moment they pick the card up. It's popular with beauty, wellbeing, interiors and premium brands.
3. Square or rounded corners?
Rounded corners give a softer, more modern look and help cards resist dog-eared corners. They suit friendly, creative brands. Square corners are classic and work for almost any business. Both options are available on our standard business cards.
4. Need more space? Try a folded card
If you'd like room for a price list, a map, opening hours or a loyalty stamp grid, a folded business card gives you four panels instead of two while still fitting in a wallet.
5. Get the design right
A good business card is simple. We recommend:
- Your logo and business name clearly on the front
- Your name and role, phone number, email and website
- Your area if you work locally, such as "Serving Wymondham, Norwich & South Norfolk". It reminds customers you're nearby.
- Social media handles or a QR code if they genuinely help customers find you
- Plenty of breathing space. Don't fill every millimetre.
Check spelling, phone numbers and email addresses carefully. It's the most common mistake we see. That's one reason we send a digital proof before anything is printed.
No design yet? Add our Design Service and we'll create a card that matches your brand, or read more about our design work.
6. Supplying your own artwork
If you already have a design, upload it on the product page (up to 20MB). For the best result, supply a high-resolution PDF set up in CMYK colour, at the correct size and with bleed. Not sure? Upload what you have and we'll check it during the proofing stage.
7. How many should you order?
Order enough that you're not afraid to hand them out. A card in someone's pocket is worth far more than one in a box on your desk. Higher quantities usually bring the price per card down, so if you network a lot or have several staff, it's worth ordering more.
Make your cards part of a matching set
Your business card works best alongside matching printed materials. Many Norfolk businesses order cards together with flyers and leaflets, letterheads and compliment slips, a roller banner for events or branded workwear for the team. Using the same colours, fonts and logo everywhere makes your brand instantly recognisable.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best thickness for business cards?
Around 400–450gsm is ideal for a premium feel. Our standard business cards are 450gsm silk with matt or soft touch lamination.
Matt or soft touch: which is better?
Matt is a clean, professional all-rounder. Soft touch has a luxurious velvety feel that makes a memorable first impression. Both protect the card.
Where can I get business cards printed near Wymondham or Norwich?
Hethel Print & Design prints business cards at the Hethel Engineering Centre, NR14 8FB, between Wymondham and Norwich. You can order online and we deliver across the UK.
Can you design my business card for me?
Yes. Add the Design Service to your order and our designers will create it, then send you a proof to approve.
Ready to order?
Browse our full range of business cards, or get in touch if you'd like advice. Call 07769 200277 and we'll happily talk you through the options.
More from our blog: Meet your local printer near Wymondham · Roller banners or PVC banners?