Remember when everyone used to print their business cards on that super glossy cardstock?

I mean, it was everywhere like 10 years ago, you'd get a card and it felt like a piece of plastic. I think people still do it thinking it looks 'premium', but it's a nightmare to write on with a pen. I had a client last week who wanted that exact finish, and I had to show them how the ink just smears. It matters because if someone can't jot a note on your card, it's less useful. Maybe it's just me, but a nice matte or uncoated stock feels way more professional now. Anyone else notice clients stuck on that old glossy trend?

3 comments

3 Comments

robert_bennett292mo ago

Consider the visual impact first. A glossy card catches the light and stands out in a stack of matte ones. The writing issue is minor compared to making a strong first impression.

milam422mo ago

Catching the light is one thing, but the last time I tried to write on one of those slick cards, my pen just slid right off and drew a line on my desk. Felt like I was trying to sign a hockey puck. I get the want to stand out, but if your card makes a client fumble like that, the impression might not be the one you're going for. A matte card just feels more solid and ready for business to me.

kai7791mo ago

Wait you actually drew a line on your desk? That's hilarious but also a total disaster. I never even thought about the pen sliding off like that. Makes that strong first impression real awkward when you're apologizing for ink on their furniture. Maybe the real power move is handing them a matte card with a pencil already attached.