Opinions often vary on whether plain or glossy business cards are the way to go. Some people think that business cards on non-glossy paper stocks look more professional, while others feel that a glossy business card lends a more professional appeal. In that regard, the best choice is going to be a matter of personal opinion.

But, if you don’t have an opinion one way or the other, here are a few considerations to bear in mind.

Appearance of Color

The same ink color will appear different depending on whether it is printed on glossy or non-glossy paper stock. In fact, most ink swatch books, such as the Pantone Matching System, will have different color samples for glossy and non-glossy paper stocks. If you will be working with a local printer, be sure to look at the right color swatches for the type of paper you are considering. If you're uncertain, you can ask to see how the same color will look on either kind of paper stock.

On a non-glossy paper stock, ink colors will appear slightly more subdued and perhaps even a little darker. Inks will soak into the paper stock more, which will affect the appearance of the ink color. Be also aware that the paper color will tend to show through the ink, so different paper colors will affect the appearance of the ink color. In some cases, a card can be first printed with white ink and then your ink color printed over top of that, which will allow for a more constant ink color across different paper stocks. However, that method is rarely used and would be at additional expense.

On a glossy paper stock, ink colors will pop more, giving them a more vibrant appearance. The inks do not soak into the glossy papers so much as they do on non-glossy paper stocks. Essentially, they sit on top of the paper surface. Since the inks commonly used in printing have a semi-transparent appearance, the paper color shows through. In this case, the glossiness of the paper will reflect through and really allow the colors to shine.

Note Taking

It is not uncommon for people to use the back of a business card to write notes. They may write down the pricing for one of your products they are considering, for example. On a non-glossy paper stock, this is generally not a problem. However, on glossy paper stocks, handwriting notes may be difficult. Some ink pens may have difficulty writing on a glossy surface, while others may have a tendency to smear. If you really want glossy business cards, such difficulties can be avoided by using cards that are glossy on one side only. These are referred to as “coated one side” or CS1 by printers. (CS2 would be coated two sides.) The front of your card can be glossy, giving you the benefits you may desire in a glossy card, but the back will be non-glossy (uncoated), giving you the benefits (on the back side, at least) of a non-glossy business card. That way, your prospect shouldn’t have any problems writing of the back of your card!

Appearance of Photographs

If you plan on putting a photo on your business cards, the paper stock you choose will have a bearing on the printed appearance of the photo. On a glossy business card, a photo will appear sharp and bright, almost as if you were holding an actual glossy photograph in your hand. In fact, some photo business cards are produced in the same way as photographs. On the other hand, if you want a more subdued effect, a non-glossy paper stock may be the way to go for a softer appearance. Of course, you may want to ask your printer for a proof showing your image on both a glossy and a non-glossy stock so that you can decide which paper stock will work best for the look you are trying to achieve.

In the end, it will still come down to your own personal opinion as to which paper stock is the type you should use for your business cards. Bearing the above considerations in mind should help you in making your decision.

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