Chloe Zhang
Plastic cards are a versatile option for businesses and organisations, offering a unique look and added durability. They can be used for a variety of purposes, including business cards, membership cards, loyalty cards, gift cards, and ID cards. When designing plastic cards, there are several features to consider, such as colour, finish, and the inclusion of magnetic stripes, barcodes, or QR codes. Businesses can choose to print their own plastic cards using specialised printers and materials or utilise professional printing services for higher-quality results. In this article, we will explore the various options available for adding plastic to cards and the benefits of each approach.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Card type | Membership, business, ID, loyalty, gift, magnetic stripe, barcode, blank |
| Card colour | White, fluorescent yellow, pink, green, orange, blue, red, clear, frosted |
| Card finish | Gloss, satin, matte, textured |
| Card size | 3.375" x 2.125" (CR-80), 3.5" x 2" |
| Card thickness | 30 mil |
| Card shape | Standard, custom |
| Card design | Logo, contact information, member name, member ID, account number, dates, text, images, QR code, barcode, magnetic stripe, variable numbering |
| Printing | Thermal printer, inkjet, laser, colour |
| Printing cost | $0.01-$0.40 per card side |
| Printing services | DuraCard, VistaPrint, Primoprint, CUSTOM Plastic Card, BlankPlasticCards.com, Print Robot, PlainCards |
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What You'll Learn
Printing at home vs. outsourcing
Printing plastic cards at home requires a few key pieces of equipment: a printer designed specifically for plastic cards, such as a thermal ID card printer; card stock; and ribbons, which are used instead of ink or toner and are available in black and colour. You can also purchase fancier ribbons, such as gold foil. It is important to note that printing plastic cards at home requires an initial investment in equipment, and there may be ongoing costs associated with ink and other supplies. Additionally, printing at home requires time and effort for printing, shipping, and organisation for mailing.
Outsourcing plastic card printing involves sending your files to a professional printing company that uses its own machinery to print your desired design and send the final product back to you. This option can be more expensive, but it saves you the time and effort of printing and shipping, as well as the upfront investment in equipment. Outsourcing also provides access to expert-level printing services, ensuring high-quality results that meet specific requirements. However, outsourcing may lead to excessive waste and use of resources, as customers often print more copies than needed to get a better price or to ensure they have enough copies.
When deciding between printing at home and outsourcing, it is essential to consider your specific needs, budget, and resources. Printing at home offers greater control over quality and profitability, but it requires a significant time investment. On the other hand, outsourcing frees up staff time, allowing you to focus on other critical business functions, but it may be more costly and provide less flexibility.
For those who are just starting, it might be better to begin with outsourcing and then transition to in-house printing once consistent sales are achieved. This way, you can first define your overall demand and then decide if investing in in-house printing equipment is the right choice for your business.
Additionally, if you require specialised materials or finishes, such as water-resistant or heat-resistant labels, outsourcing may be the better option, as investing in the necessary equipment for in-house printing may not be suitable or feasible. However, if you prioritise customisation and flexibility in your printing process, investing in a label printer for in-house printing can provide you with greater control and cost-effectiveness, especially for high-volume printing needs.
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Card colour and finish
The colour and finish of a card are important factors to consider when designing a card. The colour should be chosen to be aesthetically pleasing and to match the overall design of the card. The finish of the card can also affect the overall look and feel of the card. Here are some things to consider when choosing the colour and finish of your card:
- Card substrate: The base material of the card is typically made of plastic, such as PVC or polyester. This plastic substrate can be transparent or coloured, depending on the desired effect. For example, a clear plastic substrate can be used to create a translucent card, while a coloured substrate can be used to create a more opaque card.
- Metal layers: Incorporating metal layers into the card design can add a sense of luxury and sophistication. Metal foils or precious metals can be used as an overlay on top of the plastic substrate. However, it is important to consider the compatibility of the metal with the plastic to prevent delamination over time due to flexing or heat exposure.
- Printing and graphics: The printing and graphics on the card should complement the overall design. Consider the use of UV-curable inks, which can provide a durable and vibrant finish. Offset lithography printing may not be suitable for thin metallized surfaces as the fine lines tend to blur.
- Protective coatings: Applying a protective coating or laminate can enhance the durability of the card. This coating can provide a clear or matte finish, depending on the desired effect. It is important to ensure that the protective layer does not affect the readability of any magnetic stripes or chips on the card.
- Card construction: The construction of the card can impact its overall appearance. Cards can be made using two shells that are brought together and filled with plastic to form the desired shape. This process allows for decorations or images to be embedded within the card. Consider the thickness and size of the card, ensuring it meets the required standards.
When designing the colour and finish of your card, it is important to consider the practical aspects, such as durability and readability, as well as the aesthetic appeal. By carefully selecting the materials, printing methods, and protective coatings, you can create a card that not only looks attractive but also functions effectively.
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Card thickness
The thickness of a card is an important consideration, depending on how the cards will be used. The thickness of the card will determine its durability and its suitability for different printing methods.
The standard thickness of a credit card is 30 mil, and this thickness is often used for hotel room keys, gift cards, and membership cards, as it is durable and conforms to the standard expected by customers. Cards can be printed as thin as 10 mil, but this would not be suitable for silkscreening, as the heated drying process can distort thinner plastics. For silkscreening, the card should be at least 13.5 mil. If printing on a desktop printer, the plastic should be 20 mil or thicker. For litho printing, the minimum thickness is 5 mil.
If the card will be used repeatedly, a thickness of at least 20 mil is recommended for durability. If the card is for one-time use, a thinner card may be suitable, but this may impact the perceived value of the card.
When deciding on the thickness of your card, it is important to consider how it will be used, the printing method, and the expected durability.
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Card design
When designing a plastic card, there are several important factors to consider. Firstly, decide on the purpose of the card. This could include membership cards, gift cards, business cards, loyalty cards, or ID cards. Each type of card will require different information and design elements.
For example, membership cards should include the organisation's logo, contact information, the member's name, and their member ID or account number. It may also include membership tiers and an expiration date. Business cards, on the other hand, should represent your brand and stand out from traditional paper stocks. You can choose from a variety of colours, finishes, and textures to create a unique look and feel. Clear plastic cards offer a completely different look, while frosted plastic cards provide a semi-transparent, textured appearance. White plastic cards provide a versatile background for any design and colour scheme.
Additionally, consider the features you want to include on your plastic card. You can add magnetic stripes, barcodes, QR codes, or variable numbering. Magnetic stripes can be LoCo or HiCo, and barcodes can be incorporated into the design or added as stickers. QR codes are a great way to link to a webpage, video, or document, but they may be difficult to scan on clear plastic cards.
When it comes to printing, you have the option to print the cards yourself or use a professional printing service. If printing at home, ensure you have the right equipment, such as a specialised printer, ribbons, and card stock. Alternatively, professional printing services offer convenience, design services, and high-quality results. Compare the costs and benefits of each option to decide which method is best for you.
Finally, don't forget to consider the size and thickness of your plastic cards. The standard size is similar to a credit card (3.375" x 2.125"), and you can choose from various thickness options, such as 30 mil or 40 mil. You can also explore custom shapes to further enhance the uniqueness of your card design.
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Additional features
There are many ways to customise your plastic cards, from colours and finishes to magnetic stripes and barcodes. Here are some additional features you can consider:
Colours and finishes
You can choose from a variety of colours to make your cards stand out. Standard colours include various shades of blue, green, grey, orange, pink, red, tan and yellow. You can also opt for fluorescent colours such as fluorescent yellow, pink, green, orange, blue and red for a brighter option. In terms of finishes, you can select from gloss, satin or matte to give your cards a unique look and feel.
Magnetic stripes
Adding a magnetic stripe to your plastic cards can be useful for gift cards, membership cards or loyalty programs. You can choose between LoCo (Low Coercivity) and HiCo (High Coercivity) magnetic stripes, depending on your specific needs. This feature may only cost you an extra penny or so per card.
Barcodes and QR codes
Including a barcode or QR code on your plastic cards can be a great way to link to a webpage, video or document. QR codes are especially convenient as they can be easily scanned with a smartphone camera, providing quick access to the desired information. However, keep in mind that QR codes may be harder to scan on clear plastic cards due to their transparency.
Personalisation
Personalising your plastic cards with names, member IDs or account numbers can add a special touch. You can also include variable data such as membership tiers (gold, silver, platinum) or expiration dates. Personalisation helps to create a unique and tailored experience for your customers or members.
Printing options
Depending on your budget and requirements, you can choose between printing your own cards or using a professional printing service. If you plan to print your own cards, ensure you have the necessary equipment, such as a specialised printer, card stock and laminator. Alternatively, you can use a full-service solution that offers design, printing and fulfilment services, although this option may be more expensive.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several companies that offer plastic card printing services, including DuraCard, BlankPlasticCards.com, and VistaPrint.
Yes, it is possible to print your own plastic cards at home. However, you will need a printer that is designed specifically for printing on plastic, such as a thermal ID card printer. You will also need to purchase blank plastic cards and thermal ribbons.
Plastic cards can be customized with various design options, including different colours, finishes, and features such as magnetic stripes, barcodes, and personalization. You can also choose from standard sizes or custom shapes.
Plastic cards offer a unique look and feel compared to traditional paper cards, and they are more durable and versatile. They can be used for business cards, loyalty or reward programs, membership cards, gift cards, and more.
