Metal Business Cards: Too Pricey or Priceless Marketing?

Real Metal Business Cards have been making some tremendous gains in popularity over recent years. Most are available in shades of silver and gold with spot color inks printed on the surface. Metal cards are often produced using aluminum, stainless steel or copper.

Metal business card printing companies offer custom options from the very basic (1 spot color printed on metal) to the extravagant (intricate, custom die cuts and engraving).

There's a very limited number of printing companies in the United States who specialize in metal cards. You will often find better pricing and more available options from metal card manufacturers in China. Also, many print brokers in the United States will market metal business cards which are produced overseas.

The main things to consider when purchasing real metal cards are the thickness (.36mm is a common weight), the materials, the price and the ability to customize your cards.I recommend copper or stainless steel over a cheaper aluminum card.Prices are becoming more competitive each year, especially when purchasing from overseas or direct from a reseller. Custom options, including the ability to die cut frames and logos are a huge bonus. Most metal cards are already produced with "safe" rounded corners and dull edges.No one wants their cards to be potentially dangerous.

Some consumers may request a black, red or other colored background to be printed on their metal cards. This creates a more "traditional" card style while still maintaining the impressive look and feel of real metal.

Die cuts are typically achieved with photochemical or laser etching. Amazing effects can be created by die cutting logos, frames and image silhouettes. Engraving can create show-stopping textures and shading that contrasts the shiny metallic look & feel of the rest of your card.

So are they really worth the price?

In short, metal business cards are a priceless marketing tool. If you want to be generic, stick with your plain, boring, b&w business cards. If you want to be remembered, a real metal business card is well worth the investment.