If you are in the sort of field where the quality of your work is just as important as the quality of the clients you want to attract, then you shouldn't be looking to skimp on the cost of your business card printing.

At the very least, you will probably be looking for laminated business cards. Basically, these are regular card stocks that are then sealed on both sides by a very thin laminate that serves both to protect the card and prevent ink smudging.

Ink smudging is a big deal. Keep in mind that some types of inks and colors - blue, for example - actually require more time to dry. Hand out those un-laminated cards too early and you might have some annoyed clients with dirty hands and pockets to answer to. Unless you are in the dry cleaning business, this would likely be counterproductive.

Laminated business cards generally come in either glossy or matte finish, much like photos. Glossy business cards will tend to come across as flashier, while matte business cards have been known to work better in the business world.

Obviously, there aren't any hard and fast rules - particularly if you happen to have the flashiest cubicle in the office. What's important is that the card stock be at least a 350 gsm to really give it a professional feel.

Laminated business cards are completely different from the encapsulated plastic business cards that seem to be the fad right now. Using a cheaper digital process, encapsulated cards are actually very thin business cards inserted into a plastic pouch. This type of printing seems to work very well for businesses that want to give their clients gift specials, rebates and memberships as well as their contact information. Having a thick plastic card also likens the chances that clients will keep your card.

If none of these options speaks to your particular innovation or creativity, you might want to consider specialist cards: including hot-foil printed cards and mini CD calling cards (perfect for a record company artist representative) that fits into a standard CD drive.

If you're personality isn't at the mercy of your pocketbook, the sky is the limit.

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Mark Knerr is a graphic designer specializing in company logo design and business card design services. He also offers professional, full color postcard, plastic cards and business card printing. Please visit us at http://www.businesscards4me.com.