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01

General Information

How we work — design, ordering, shipping.

Free Design Service

Is your design service really free?

Yes. We provide a free design service to customer purchasing their business cards from us. More details on our free design service can be found here.

Do you use templates?

No. Each card design is bespoke. We tailor the artwork to your companies needs. We believe it's the only way to ensure that the card is as unique as the person or organisation it represents.

How does the design process work?

We understand that ordering a bespoke product can be a little daunting. We try to make the process as painless as possible. Once we have collected a few pieces of information, our design team puts together an initial concept and first draft. We then generate a photo-realistic digital mockup using our innovative proofing system. This shows exactly how the card would look once produced. Then, using your feedback, we make revisions until you are 100% happy with the layout.

How many revisions will you undertake?

We do not place a limit on the number of revisions we are prepared to undertake. Our only stipulation is that you, as the client, provide constructive feedback for each proof submitted. This helps ensure we can move the process forward and edge closer to a design you are happy with.

Will you post a physical proof to me?

I am afraid not. With many of our products, it is simply not viable to manufacture just one or two as proofs. Instead, we have developed a state of the art digital proofing process that shows exactly how the design would look once manufactured. We are also happy to post physical examples of previously manufactured comparable products to you. Along with the digital proof, this should allow you to form an accurate vision of how the final product will look once it arrives.

How long does the design process take?

An up to date lead time for our free design service is available here. Please bear in mind that the total time needed to complete the design process will heavily depend on the number of revisions we need to undertake before you are 100% happy with the layout.

Do you keep the design on file for future use?

Yes. We store the artwork in our database for a minimum of 3 years.

Will you reuse my design for other clients?

We do not reuse artwork or graphics that are specific to your company (logos, etc). We reserve the right to reuse more generic graphics that we have created (e.g. icons, watermarks, etc).

Will you send me the source artwork?

We do not release source artwork. However, we are happy to send elements of the artwork that are specific to you and your company (logos etc) once an order has been placed.

Ordering & Payment

I'm happy with the proofs. What's next?

Simply drop us an email confirming the quantity required and the billing/shipping address along with the approved proof. We will then email an invoice to you that will allow you to complete the order online, or by phone.

How much do your business cards cost?

Prices for all of our products can be found here.

How do you accept payment?

We can accept payment online using all mainstream credit cards and PayPal. We can also accept payment over the phone. Our contact number is available here. We can also accept payment by bank transfer. Please contact us for banking details.

What credit cards do you accept?

We accept VISA, Mastercard and AMEX.

Will you provide an invoice?

Yes. Once you have confirmed the quantity required we will send you an invoice by email. We'll also send a second copy marked "paid" once the order has been placed.

What happens once payment has been made?

Once payment has been received we will email a receipt to you and begin manufacturing your order. An up to date lead time for our products can be found here. Once manufacturing is complete we will ship your order using a reputable courier with track and trace capabilties. More information on shipping can be found here.

Will you begin production of my cards before payment has been received?

No. We require payment at the time the order is placed. The manufactured product is unique to you and cannot be restocked. As such we require payment before production begins.

Do you offer an account facility?

No. We do not currently offer an account facility.

I am an EU resident. Can you zero-rate the VAT?

VAT is no longer payable on goods imported to EU from UK from 1st January 2021. Please note that you may be liable for import duties levied by your local customs authority.

Shipping & Delivery

How much does shipping cost?

More details on shipping, as well as price guidance, can be found here.

How long does shipping take?

Once the product has been manufactured we ship the order using a reputable courier with track and trace capabilities. Shipping to UK addresses takes 24 hours. Shipping to US and Canadian addresses takes 1 to 2 business days. Shipping to Eurozone countries takes 1 to 3 business days. Please allow 2 to 3 business days for consignments to other countries. More details on shipping can be found here.

Which courier do you use?

For UK orders we use DPD. For all other countries we use FedEx International Priority service.

Can I request a different courier?

I am afraid not. We insist on using the courier of our choice.

Will you provide tracking details?

Yes. We will email a tracking number to you on the day the order is collected from us.

How do you package my order?

UK orders are shipped in sealed boxes that are protected with bubble wrap. Order to all other countries are shipped in sealed boxes that are protected inside a strong Fedex box. Padding inside the Fedex box will be used if required. Every order shipped is packed by the team member responsible for producing your batch of cards.

02

Plastic Cards

Translucent, tinted, satin and full colour.

Translucent Plastic Cards

How long do the translucent plastic cards take to manufacture?

Up to date manufacturing lead times for all of our products can be found here.

How thick are the translucent plastic cards?

Our translucent plastic cards are all 760 micron thick. This is the same thickness as a standard credit card.

What are the dimensions of a translucent plastic card?

Our translucent plastic cards all measure 86mm x 54mm. This is the same dimensions as a standard credit card.

Is it possible to split a batch between different names?

Yes. In cases where a batch needs to be split between multiple names we charge the listed price for the total volume of cards and then add just the cost of the additional print plates required.

What ink colours are available for use on the translucent plastic cards?

We carry a wide range of ink colours suitable for use on our translucent plastic cards. A swatch of the most commonly used is available here.

Is it possible to change the colour of the translucent plastic?

It sounds as though you may be interested in our tinted translucent plastic cards. More information on this type of card is available here.

Can you print a QR code on to the translucent plastic?

Yes. We can print a QR code on our translucent plastic cards. However, it is important to print the QR code using a high contrast ink (black, dark blue etc).

Can a signature strip be added to the translucent plastic cards?

Yes, but bear in mind that whatever is printed on the back is easily visible when viewed from the front.

Do metallic inks cost more than regular pigment inks?

No. Metallic inks are priced the same as pigment inks.

Is it possible to print photos, gradients or full colour images on the translucent plastic cards?

No. To print these types of cards we first etch the artwork into a metal plate. We then heat up that plate and apply it under pressure to the blank plastic. Between the two runs a large ink ribbon. The heat and pressure transfer the ink from the ribbon to the plastic card. This printing system allows us to use beautiful metallic inks and provides a good bond between the ink and plastic. But it prevents us from reproducing full colour graphics like photographs. However, we do produce a full colour plastic business card that is more suited when reproducing photographs etc. More details can be found here.

Are there any limitations that need to be taken into consideration when creating a design for the translucent plastic cards?

Yes. The process used to print our translucent plastic cards differs from more conventional methods (CMYK etc). We advise reading through our documentation. We are happy to offer advice and technical assistance and will do our best to make the process as painless as possible.

Are you able to die cut the translucent plastic cards?

We do not currently have the ability to cut our plastic cards to custom shapes.

Aren't your translucent plastic cards bad for the environment?

Not at all. Our translucent plastic cards are made from SicoEco, an environmentally friendly polymer infused with sea salt that triggers accelerated degradation once the card reaches landfill or compost. We also print using vegetable-based inks. The cards are degradable, compostable and recyclable.

Tinted Translucent Plastic Cards

How long does it take to produce the tinted translucent plastic cards?

Up to date manufacturing lead times for all of our products can be found here.

How thick are the tinted translucent plastic cards?

Our tinted translucent plastic cards are all 760 micron thick. This is the same thickness as a standard credit card.

What are the dimensions of a tinted translucent plastic card?

Our tinted translucent plastic cards all measure 86mm x 54mm. This is the same dimensions as a standard credit card.

Is it possible to split a batch of cards between different names?

Yes. In cases where a batch needs to be split between multiple names we charge the listed price for the total volume of cards and then add just the cost of the additional print plates required.

Are you able to die cut the tinted translucent plastic cards?

We do not currently have the ability to cut our plastic cards to custom shapes.

What ink colours are available for use on the tinted translucent plastic cards?

We carry a wide range of ink colours suitable for use on our tinted translucent plastic cards. A swatch of the most commonly used is available here.

What plastic colours are available?

We currently produce the tinted translucent cards in red, fuchsia, purple, amber, yellow, cyan, evergreen, lime green and smoked grey.

Can you match a specific colour?

Not at present. We are working on this.

Can you print a QR code on to the tinted translucent plastic cards?

Yes. We can print a QR code on our translucent plastic cards. However, it is important to print the QR code using a high contrast ink (black, dark blue etc).

Can a signature strip be applied to the tinted translucent plastic cards?

Yes, but bear in mind that whatever is printed on the back is easily visible when viewed from the front.

Do metallic inks cost more than pigment inks?

No. Metallic inks are priced the same as pigment inks.

Is it possible to print photographs, gradients or full colour images on to the tinted translucent plastic?

Not directly with this process. To print our tinted translucent plastic cards we first etch the artwork into a metal plate, then heat the plate and apply it under pressure to the blank plastic. Between the two runs a large ink ribbon, and the heat and pressure transfer the ink from the ribbon to the plastic. This system gives us beautiful metallic inks and a strong bond, but it isn't suited to reproducing photographs or complex full colour graphics. For those, we'd suggest our full colour plastic or metal cards, both of which support full colour printing.

Are there any limitations that need to be considered when designing a tinted translucent plastic card?

Yes. The process used to print our tinted translucent plastic cards differs from more conventional methods (CMYK etc). We advise reading through our documentation. We are happy to offer advice and technical assistance and will do our best to make the process as painless as possible.

Satin Plastic Cards

How long does it take to manufacture the satin plastic cards?

Up to date manufacturing lead times for all of our products can be found here.

What thickness are the satin plastic cards?

Our satin plastic cards are all 760 micron thick. This is the same thickness as a standard credit card.

What are the dimensions of a satin plastic card?

Our satin plastic cards all measure 86mm x 54mm. This is the same dimensions as a standard credit card.

Is it possible to split an order between different names?

Yes. In cases where a batch needs to be split between multiple names we charge the listed price for the total volume of cards and then add just the cost of the additional print plates required.

Are you able to die cut the satin plastic cards?

We do not currently have the ability to cut our plastic cards to custom shapes.

What ink colours can be used on the satin plastic?

We carry a wide range of ink colours suitable for use on our satin plastic cards. A swatch of the most commonly used is available here.

What plastic colours is the satin available in?

The satin plastic is available in rich black or pristine white.

Can you add a QR code to the satin plastic cards?

Yes. We can print a QR code on the satin plastic cards. The key is to use a high contrast ink: a light ink on the rich black satin (white or light blue, for example) or a dark ink on the pristine white satin.

Can a signature strip be added?

Yes. We can add a signature strip to the satin plastic cards.

Do metallic inks cost more than pigment inks?

No. Metallic inks are priced the same as pigment inks.

Is it possible to print photographs, gradients or full colour graphics on to the satin plastic cards?

Not directly with this process. To print our satin plastic cards we first etch the artwork into a metal plate, then heat the plate and apply it under pressure to the blank plastic. Between the two runs a large ink ribbon, and the heat and pressure transfer the ink from the ribbon to the plastic. This system gives us beautiful metallic inks and a strong bond, but it isn't suited to reproducing photographs or complex full colour graphics. For those, we'd suggest our full colour plastic or metal cards, both of which support full colour printing.

Are there any other factors that need to be taken into consideration when designing for the satin plastic cards?

Yes. The process used to print our satin plastic cards differs from more conventional methods (CMYK etc). We advise reading through our documentation. We are happy to offer advice and technical assistance and will do our best to make the process as painless as possible.

Full Colour Plastic Cards

How long does it take to manufacture the full colour plastic cards?

Up to date manufacturing lead times for all of our products can be found here.

How thick are the full colour plastic cards?

Our full colour plastic cards are available in three thicknesses (420, 680 and 760 micron).

I am not familar with 'microns' in relation to the full colour plastic cards. Can you please explain?

Sure. A micron is 1000th of a millimetre. The thickest card is 760 micron. This is the same as a standard credit card. 680 micron is very slightly thinner and slightly more flexible. However, it takes a trained eye to spot the difference unless you have examples of each thickness in each hand. 420 micron is considerably thinner and far more flexible.

What are the dimensions of the full colour plastic cards?

Our full colour plastic cards all measure 86mm x 54mm. This is the same dimensions as a standard credit card.

Is it possible to split a batch between different names?

Yes. In cases where a batch needs to be split between multiple names we charge the listed price for the total volume of cards and then add just the cost of the additional print plates required.

Are you able to die cut the full colour plastic cards to any shape?

We do not currently have the ability to cut our plastic cards to custom shapes.

Do these cards have a gloss or matte finish?

Our full colour plastic cards are available with either a glossy or matte finish. The choice of finish does not affect the price.

Can metallic inks be added to the full colour plastic cards?

Under certain circumstances it is possible to apply metallic inks to the surface of the full colour cards. Please contact us for a custom quotation.

Is it possible to print photographs and gradients on the full colour plastic cards?

Yes. Our full colour plastic cards are printed using a conventional CMYK digital printing process that is suitable for reproduction of photographs and gradients.

Can the full colour plastic cards be personalised?

Yes. We can print variable data or sequential numbering on to this type of card.

Can a signature strip be added to the full colour plastic cards?

Yes. We can apply a signature strip to the surface of the full colour plastic cards.

Is it possible to punch a hole into the full colour plastic cards?

Yes. We can punch a hole or a slot through this type of card..

03

Metal Cards

Etched stainless steel cards, in full and mini.

How long does it take to produce the metal cards?

Up to date manufacturing lead times for all of our products can be found here.

What type of metal is used to manufacture the cards?

We use marine grade, rolled stainless steel.

Do you offer a smaller metal card?

Yes. Alongside the standard metal card we also produce a mini metal card, which measures 65mm x 35mm, around two-thirds the size of a standard credit card. It uses the same marine grade stainless steel and is available with the same finishes, etching options and personalisation as the standard size.

How thick are the metal cards?

Our metal cards are available in three thicknesses (300, 500 and 800 micron) across all finishes.

What thicknesses are the mini metal cards available in?

The mini metal cards are available in three thicknesses (200, 300 and 500 micron). They run thinner than the standard range to keep the smaller card in proportion.

I'm not familiar with 'microns'. Can you give me a point of reference please?

Sure. A micron is 1000th of a millimetre. An average credit card is 760 micron thick (0.76 of a millimetre). The 300 micron metal cards are thinner than a standard credit card but because they are manufactured using stainless steel, they have about the same rigidity when flexed between thumb and finger. The 800 micron cards (the thickest we produce) are extremely rigid and difficult to flex. The 500 micron sits somewhere between the two.

What are the dimensions of the metal cards?

We are able to produce the metal cards in a range of sizes and shapes.

Is it possible to split a batch of metal cards between different names?

Yes. In cases where a batch needs to be split between multiple names we charge the listed price for the total volume of cards and then add just the cost of the additional tooling required.

Are you able to cut the metal cards to any shape?

Yes. The metal cards can be cut to the shape of your choosing. As long as the perimeter of the card does not exceed the standard 86mm x 54mm there is no extra charge. For mini metal cards the same applies, with a 65mm x 35mm maximum perimeter.

Is it possible to etch both sides of the metal cards?

Yes.

What colours are available?

Our metal cards are available in seven finishes: stainless steel, matt black, yellow gold, rose gold, copper, gunmetal and matte white. The original and mini metal cards have a stainless steel finish by default.

Can I choose a surface finish?

Yes. The stainless steel and gold cards are each available with a choice of natural, brushed or mirrored surface finish.

Can the metal be filled with colour?

Yes. We can fill etched areas with Pantone polymer infills on the stainless steel, gold, matt black, copper, gunmetal and matte white cards. This is useful for adding custom colour accents within the design.

Is it possible to print photographs on to the metal cards?

Yes, although it isn't the default. As standard the design is etched into the surface of the metal or cut all the way through the card (or a combination of both). We can also print onto the metal cards in full colour as an optional finish where the design calls for it.

Can the metal cards be personalised?

Yes. We can add variable data or a sequential number to the cards. There are a couple of different methods of acheiving this with varying degrees of additional cost associated with each. Please contact us for more details.

Can QR codes be added to the metal cards?

We can print a QR code in black on our metal cards. We recommend that the QR measures at least 20mm x 20mm.

Can a signature strip be added to the metal cards?

We can etch a panel into the surface of the metal that will allow the cardholder to sign the card. However, please be aware that care much be taken when choosing a suitable pen. For example, a biro, commonly used to sign credit cards, will not work.

04

Wood Cards

Real wood veneer cards from sustainable forests.

How long do the wood cards take to manufacture?

Up to date manufacturing lead times for all of our products can be found here.

How thick are the wood cards?

Our wood cards are 3mm thick. They use a three-layer construction: real wood veneer on each outer surface, with a high-density fibreboard core that gives the card its rigidity and lateral strength.

What wood species are available?

We currently produce the wood cards in six species: English oak, black walnut, bamboo, American cherry, Finnish birch and Canadian maple. Each has been chosen for its distinct colouration and properties.

Are you able to cut the wood cards to a custom shape?

Yes. We use a CO2 laser to cut the perimeter, so the card can be shaped however you'd like. As long as the desired shape fits within the dimensions of a standard card, there is no additional charge.

How is the artwork applied to the wood cards?

The text and graphics are etched into the surface of the wood using a high-wattage CO2 laser at 1200dpi. No ink is used, the design is engraved directly into the wood, and the same laser is used to cut the perimeter and any decorative cutaways.

Is it possible to print photographs, gradients or full colour graphics on the wood cards?

No. Because the artwork is etched by laser rather than printed with ink, the design appears as a tonal mark on the wood rather than in colour. For full colour graphics you may want to consider our paper, full colour plastic or metal cards.

Aren't your wood cards bad for the environment?

Not at all. The veneer and the core are sourced from managed forests, and the cards are fully biodegradable and compostable. Because we etch with light rather than print with ink, no harmful chemicals are involved in the process.

05

Acrylic Cards

Coloured, frosted and fluorescent acrylic.

How long do the acrylic cards take to manufacture?

Up to date manufacturing lead times for all of our products can be found here.

How thick are the acrylic cards?

Our acrylic cards are 3mm thick. The thickness protects the structural integrity of the card and showcases the vibrant coloured edge.

What kind of acrylic do you use?

We use only genuine Perspex®, which is considered the best quality acrylic available.

What colours are available?

We carry two finishes. The fluorescent gloss range includes Mars red, lava orange, helios yellow, acid green, Neptune blue, glass look (clear with green edges) and crystal clear. The frosted sandblasted range includes citrus yellow, saffron yellow, mandarin orange, chilli red, blush pink, perfect plum, aurora violet, sapphire blue, azure blue, emerald green, lime zest, sandstone brown, electric blue, arctic blue, glacier green, polar white and morning frost. Swatches of each can be viewed here.

What are the glow edges on the fluorescent cards?

The fluorescent acrylic has a striking coloured edge that amplifies the surface colour, giving the perimeter a near-luminous glow. It applies to acid green, helios yellow, lava orange, Mars red and Neptune blue.

How is the artwork printed onto the acrylic?

We hand print contact details and spot colour logos onto the Perspex using a range of vegetable-based pigment and metallic inks. Each ink is applied at 200°C and around four tonnes per square inch of pressure, which ensures a strong bond between the ink and the acrylic surface.

Are you able to cut the acrylic cards to a custom shape?

Yes. We use a CO2 laser to cut the perimeter, so the card can be shaped however you'd like. The same process can be used to cut intricate cutaway patterns and graphics within the card.

Is it possible to print photographs, gradients or full colour graphics on the acrylic cards?

Not in a photographic sense. The hot ink printing process is best suited to spot colour, so solid logos, text and pigment areas. For full colour graphics, we'd suggest our full colour plastic or metal cards, both of which support full colour printing.

06

Letterpress Cards

Deeply impressed onto cotton and duplex stocks.

How long do the letterpress cards take to manufacture?

Up to date manufacturing lead times for all of our products can be found here.

What stock are the letterpress cards printed on?

Each letterpress card is a triplex of three layers of genuine Colorplan paper, totalling 900gsm. The result is a luxuriously thick, tactile card.

How are the letterpress cards printed?

Each card is handcrafted using traditional letterpress techniques. We first etch the artwork into a metal block, then use that block to gently embed each ink into the surface of the paper. This produces the subtle deboss effect that letterpress is known for.

Can I customise the paper colours?

Yes. We can customise the shade for each of the triplex card's three layers at no extra cost. With 40 different colours available, that gives 64,000 possible combinations. The full range of shades can be viewed here.

What is a coloured core?

Our letterpress cards are made from three layers of paper. The centre layer can be a different colour to the outer two, and that seam of colour is visible when viewing the edge of the card. The core can be any of our 40 shades, although the brighter ones tend to give the best visual effect. The full range of shades can be viewed here.

Can the edges of the card be gilded?

Yes, as an optional finish. Edge gilding applies a reflective foil to the perimeter of the card, adding an extra touch of elegance. We carry a wide range of metallic foil shades to choose from.

What ink colours are available for letterpress?

We can apply conventional pigment colours and a range of metallic inks. We also stock a diffraction ink that splits the white light hitting it into the colours of the spectrum.

Aren't your letterpress cards bad for the environment?

Not at all. The paper is FSC certified, sourced from managed forests, free of heavy metals and ECF classified. The cards are fully recyclable and biodegradable. We print with eco-friendly inks containing sustainable vegetable oil rather than mineral oil, and we use a biodegradable water-based adhesive to laminate the three layers.

07

Carbon Fibre Cards

Genuine 3K twill carbon-fibre composite.

How long do the carbon fibre cards take to manufacture?

Up to date manufacturing lead times for all of our products can be found here.

How thick are the carbon fibre cards?

Our carbon fibre cards are 0.8mm (800 micron) thick. The carbon fibre is sealed within a tough lacquer coating that gives both sides a smooth satin finish.

What are the carbon fibre cards made from?

We use genuine carbon fibre with an authentic twill weave, which is the iconic diagonal pattern associated with high-performance materials. Carbon fibre offers an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, so the cards are remarkably durable, lightweight and resistant to damage.

How is the artwork printed onto the carbon fibre?

Text and graphics are screen printed onto the surface using colour-accurate Pantone spot inks. Full-colour printing is also available if the design calls for it.

Can the carbon fibre cards be cut to a custom shape?

Yes. Using CNC technology, we can customise the perimeter of the card and cut intricate patterns or cutaways within the design.

08

Paper Cards

Premium uncoated and coated paper cards.

How long do the paper cards take to manufacture?

Up to date manufacturing lead times for all of our products can be found here.

What stock are the paper cards printed on?

We use an ultra-white 350gsm stock as standard, or 400gsm for cards that include foiling. Both sides are matt laminated to give the card a distinctive texture and protect it against discolouration and fading.

How are the paper cards printed?

Both sides of the card are printed in full colour as standard.

Can a UV spot finish be added?

Yes. UV spot is an optional gloss accent applied to specific areas of the card. The contrast in texture between the matt lamination and the gloss spot can be very effective for highlighting elements like a logo.

Can metallic foiling be added?

Yes. We offer a range of metallic foils, applied by hand to the 400gsm matt laminated card one card at a time. Foil works particularly well for simple detailing, for example a foiled company logo on the reverse.

Aren't your paper cards bad for the environment?

The pulp used to produce the stock is sourced from managed forests, and we print with eco-friendly inks containing sustainable vegetable oil rather than mineral oil.

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