Chloe Zhang
Creating plastic membership cards is a great way to enhance the professional image of your club, business, or organization. These cards can be used to showcase your brand, foster a sense of belonging among members, and improve brand exposure. When designing plastic membership cards, it is important to consider the key components, such as the organization's name, logo, color scheme, and branding imagery. You can choose from a variety of card types, including PVC, clear plastic, white plastic, or frosted plastic, and add security features like magnetic strips, barcodes, or QR codes. To print your own cards, you will need to purchase a plastic card printer, while online services offer design and printing solutions with customizable templates and fast shipping options.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Design | Customisable, with free templates available online. |
| Printing | Full-colour printing on both sides, with options for clear, white, frosted, metallic gold, or silver plastic. |
| Production time | Standard production time is 2-3 weeks, but expedited services are available. |
| Scannable codes | QR codes, barcodes, magnetic stripes, and RFID chips can be added for security and member tracking. |
| Add-ons | Options for raised numbers, variable barcodes, and custom logos. |
| Shipping | Same-day shipping available from some providers. |
| Minimum order requirements | No minimum order size from some providers. |
| Cost | Entry-level plastic card printers start at $1,500, with printing costs varying based on quantity and customisation. |
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What You'll Learn
Design: Use templates or design from scratch
When creating plastic membership cards, you can either use templates or design them from scratch.
Using a template is a good option if you want a quick and easy solution. Many companies offer free templates that you can customise to your liking. For example, IDCreator offers a free and easy-to-use Badge Maker that allows you to customise a membership card design template or start with a blank template. Badgy also offers free membership card templates in their online template library that you can personalise. VistaPrint also provides templated designs and the option to choose clear, white, or frosted plastic.
If you want to design your membership card from scratch, you can do so by using software such as Evolis Badge Studio, which is included with Badgy solutions. This software allows you to create and personalise badges and includes features such as adding a barcode or QR code associated with the member number. You can also upload any artwork, including drawings, logos, or photos, and work with designers to create a card that meets your needs.
When designing your card, consider including key components such as the organisation's name and logo, colour scheme, and branding imagery used in other marketing materials. You may also want to include member information such as name, photo, ID number, and any relevant group information. Additionally, think about adding contact information or membership terms, perks, or benefits on the back of the card.
If you plan to print the cards yourself, you will need to purchase a plastic card printer from brands like Datacard, Evolis, Fargo / HID, Magicard, or Zebra. These printers typically start at $1,500 and can go up to $5,000 or more depending on the options selected. Don't forget to stock up on thermal ribbons and blank plastic cards in the colour and material of your choice.
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Customise: Add logos, photos, and security features
When creating plastic membership cards, customisation is key. You can add logos, photos, and security features to make the cards unique and functional. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Logos and Photos
Adding a logo is a great way to reinforce your brand image and make your organisation easily recognisable. You can upload your logo design and any other artwork, such as drawings or photos, to an online template. If you don't have a logo, some services offer in-house design teams to create one for you. You can also choose to include photos of your members, which can facilitate identification.
Security Features
To make your membership cards secure, you can add scannable codes such as QR codes, barcodes, or magnetic stripes. These can be linked to member numbers and account information, allowing you to track engagement and control access to your premises or services. You can also include raised numbers, similar to those on a credit card, and additional security features like RFID chips.
Custom Text and Variable Information
Custom text can be added to your membership cards to designate member types, such as "Gold Member". You can also use different background colours to represent each membership type. If your cards have an expiration date, you can include a "Valid Thru" date or a "Member Since" date. For variable information, you can upload an Excel file or specify the numbering sequence you require.
Card Orientation and Size
Most ID cards are horizontal, like a driver's license, but some organisations use vertical ID cards for display purposes. You can also choose from different types of plastic, such as clear, white, or frosted, each offering a unique look and feel.
By utilising these customisation options, you can create plastic membership cards that not only look great but also serve as effective tools for identification, security, and brand promotion.
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Print: Choose a printer and plastic type
When it comes to printing plastic membership cards, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind when choosing a printer and plastic type. Firstly, decide whether you need single-sided or dual-sided printing. Single-sided printers are more cost-effective and space-saving, making them ideal for smaller organisations or those with minimal printing needs. They are suitable for printing basic information such as names, photos, and logos. However, some single-sided printers can be upgraded to dual-sided printing if your needs change over time.
On the other hand, dual-sided printers offer more flexibility and are recommended if you need to print more detailed information, such as employee or membership numbers, barcodes, security access levels, and card expiration dates. With dual-sided printing, you can ensure that the card design and key information are always visible, regardless of how the card is oriented. This type of printer is also more efficient as it can print on both sides in a single pass.
Another factor to consider is the type of plastic used for the cards. PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a common material for membership cards due to its durability and affordability. It can be printed in full colour and customised with features such as magnetic strips, raised numbers, variable barcodes, and security enhancements like RFID chips.
In terms of specific printer models, there are several reputable brands to consider, including Fargo, Magicard, Evolis, IDP, Zebra, Nisca, Entrust Datacard, Matica EDIsecure, and NBS Technologies. Magicard printers, for instance, offer high-resolution printing, smart card encoding options, and advanced security features like Holokote® watermarks to prevent counterfeiting.
When selecting a printer, it's essential to evaluate your specific requirements, such as printing volume, security needs, and the type of information you'll be including on the cards. This will help you choose the most suitable printer for your plastic membership card creation needs.
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Fulfilment: Get cards shipped or add mailing services
When it comes to fulfilment, there are a few options available to you. Some companies, like IDCreator, offer printing and shipping services, where they will print your custom design and ship the cards to you. This can even be done on the same day. Other companies, such as My Plastic Business Card, also offer tracking for your order, so you can keep an eye on the delivery status.
If you are looking to send the cards directly to your members, some companies provide mailing services. Mail It Direct, for example, offers direct mail marketing services, specialising in plastic postcards, gift card mailers, and other eco-friendly formats. Their STRONGmailers are credit card-thick plastic postcards that are built to stand out from other mail. PlasCards offers a similar service, with plastic postcards that include pop-out gift cards. This is a great way to ensure your cards are delivered safely and securely to your members.
You can also add extra security and functionality to your cards, such as magnetic strips, raised numbers, barcodes, and RFID chips. These features can be used for tracking member engagement and creating incentives to increase engagement. For example, you could offer rewards to members who frequently use their cards.
It's important to note that production times may vary, with some companies offering standard production times of around 2-3 weeks, and others claiming to ship within 10 business days. If you need your cards sooner, some companies offer expedited services, so be sure to discuss your timeline with your chosen provider.
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Benefits: Reinforce brand image and member loyalty
Plastic membership cards are a great way to reinforce your brand image and build member loyalty. They are a physical representation of your brand that members can carry with them and use regularly, keeping your brand at the top of their minds.
When designing your plastic membership cards, it is important to consider the design elements that will reinforce your brand image. This includes using your organization's name, logo, color scheme, and branding imagery that aligns with your other marketing materials. You can also add customizable features such as embossed numbering, foil stamping, spot UV, and magnetic strips to make your cards more secure and exclusive. These features not only enhance the visual appeal of the cards but also reinforce the quality and professionalism associated with your brand.
The functionality of plastic membership cards also plays a role in reinforcing brand image and member loyalty. By integrating scannable codes such as QR codes, barcodes, or magnetic stripes, organizations can track member engagement and create incentives to increase engagement. This shows members that you value their loyalty and are committed to providing them with rewards and benefits.
Additionally, plastic membership cards offer a sense of exclusivity and pride for members. They serve as tangible tokens of membership, making members feel included, valued, and part of a team. This sense of belonging fosters stronger member loyalty and encourages members to proudly display and use their cards, further reinforcing your brand image.
Overall, plastic membership cards are a powerful tool for building a strong brand image and fostering member loyalty. They provide a professional and durable representation of your brand, offering functionality, exclusivity, and a premium member experience that strengthens the relationship between your organization and its members.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic membership cards are a great way to reinforce your brand image and values. They can also be used to spark engaging interactions with a unique and eye-catching design, enhancing member satisfaction and loyalty.
You can design plastic membership cards online using free templates or design software. You can also upload your own artwork, including drawings, logos, or photos. If you don't have a design, some companies offer in-house design services.
The design template should be the same or very similar for all members. Key components include the organisation's name and logo, colour scheme, and branding imagery. Each membership card should include the member's name, photo, ID number, and any other relevant information. You may also want to include membership types, perks, or benefits, either on the card or via a QR code that directs members to a webpage.
You can either print plastic membership cards yourself or use a professional printing service. To print them yourself, you will need to purchase a plastic card printer, which can range from $1,500 to over $5,000. You will also need to stock up on thermal ribbons and blank plastic cards. Alternatively, you can use a service like IDCreator or My Plastic Business Card, which offers custom printing and shipping.
The cost of plastic membership cards can vary depending on the quantity, add-ons, and printing method. If you print them yourself, the cost will depend on the printer and supplies. For professional printing services, prices may vary, and some companies offer additional services like design assistance and expedited shipping for an extra fee.
