Die Cut Business Cards - Worth The Investment?

What's the hype about die cut business cards?

Smart business owners, job seekers, freelancers, and designers know that one of the keys to an effective business card is simply, standing out.

One of the best ways to do that is by choosing a card of an original shape.

Think about it: if 9 out of 10 business cards your prospect receives are the traditional rectangular shape, it stands to reason that having an odd shaped business card might earn you a little extra attention.

With that in mind, companies began producing cards in different shapes and sizes. Some oversized (like chubby, for example), others undersized (like slim and mini for example), square business cards, and of course, rounded corners. They were different enough to stand out from traditional cards, but approachable enough for the masses.

But some people like to break out even further from the mold.

Enter die cut business cards. An endless opportunity for creativity. If you can think it,  it can be done.

No matter what industry you're in, a die cut business card can be made to match it. A hamburger shaped business card for a burger joint... a pipe shaped card for a plumber...  a rectangular card with a bite cut out of it for a bakery (or a dentist!)... a card that looks like a city skyline. Even die cut metal business cards are a reality with virtually unlimited flexibility.

From simple to ornate it can be done.

While die cut business cards are virtually guaranteed to stand out, they can cost anywhere from a little extra to a lot extra. It all depends on whether the shape you're interested is an already existing template or whether it needs to be custom created for you. It's also important to make sure that if you're choosing a unique shape, that you don't sacrifice the image you're trying to portray. An attorney, for example, could create a business card in the shape of a gavel, but that doesn't make it wise. So make sure your decision is in line with your company image.

And work with an expert who you are confident can implement your idea (or his or her own) in a way that's sure to garner not only a lot of attention, but a positive reaction as well.

The bottom line is, die cut business cards are but one creative option that exists. Choose it if you're confident enough in your concept that it justifies the added time, expense, and effort. If not, there are so many other creative business card shapes, materials, and effects to choose from that me be equally impressive, but easier to implement.