Do you want to print business cards to impress potential future clients? Well, I can tell you know, printing business cards yourself which have smudged is not the way to impress!! Is this a familiar scenario you find yourself in?!

Have no fear, I have the answer for you.

Determining the size of the business card is the most important aspect for you. Think about the quality of your business cards. You are however limited by a certain printer model which cater for business cards, etc.

The main tips to follow are:

1/ Remember to set the desired print quality and color on the printer (see print dialog). This can play a crucial role in quality! Always follow the instructions provided with this.

2/ Ensure images and text are located 3mm off the edges. This ensures that any printer imprecision(s) won't spoil your cards.

3/ Use paper that is compatible. For example, NEVER use glossy coated paper with a laser printer. You will end up having to throw your printer out! Trust me on this one.

4/ As the resolution in the printer is higher than the monitor, you you need to use high-resolution images. This will ensure they come out well for you on the cards.

I think the main question that needs to be asked is whether you are going to pay someone else to print the cards for you, or do it yourself? There is no doubt you can produce high quality cards from your home provided you have/buy a printer that's up for the job. Have a look at www.print-quality-guide.com for a huge resource of material on business card printing. You will also find a number of reciommended printers here.

In my personal opinion, investing in a quality printer will ultimately save you money of having to pay a third party who will do the job for you at a profit!

Andrea Jordan-Hughes

www.print-quality-guide.com