Focus on three factors when you buy holiday card designs: card size for mailing, paper weight for feel, and printing method for design fidelity. Match the design to your recipient list and budget.
What to Look For in Holiday Card Designs
- Size and shape: Standard rectangular sizes like A2 (4.25 x 5.5 in), A6 (4.5 x 6.25 in), and A7 (5 x 7 in) mail at first-class rates. Square cards often need extra postage.
- Paper stock: Look for 100 lb cover (270 gsm) or 110 lb cover. A 14 pt to 16 pt cardstock gives a substantial feel. Matte or textured finishes hide fingerprints.
- Printing method: Digital printing works for short runs. Offset printing lowers unit cost for large runs. Foil stamping, letterpress, and embossing add texture.
- Design elements: Check color palette, typography, and imagery. Ensure text is legible. Photo cards and illustrated designs each suit different audiences.
- Envelopes: Confirm the card comes with envelopes. White or colored envelopes change the presentation. Return address printing saves time.
Parameter Bands to Compare
- Quantity: 25 to 50 cards (digital), 100 to 250 (digital or offset), 500 or more (offset).
- Card size: A2, A6, A7, 5x7, 4x6 (photo cards).
- Paper weight: 80 lb text (thin) to 130 lb cover (thick). 100 lb cover is a good middle.
- Printing: Digital (fast, affordable for short runs), Offset (lower unit cost for large runs), Letterpress (premium, limited colors), Foil (metallic accents).
- Finishes: Matte, gloss, soft touch, metallic.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Ignoring postage rules: square or oversized cards cost more to mail.
- Choosing dark backgrounds: they show fingerprints and scuffs.
- Ordering too few: last-minute reprints cost more.
- Skipping a proof: typos and color shifts happen.
- Using thin paper: cards feel cheap.
- Forgetting envelopes: not all cards come with envelopes.
FAQ
How many holiday cards should I order?
Add 10% over your list for extras.
What is the best size for mailing?
A7 (5x7) or A6 (4.5x6.25) fit standard envelopes and mail at first-class rates.
Can I customize a design?
Many printers offer template editing or full custom design.
Digital vs offset printing?
Digital suits short runs. Offset suits long runs.
How much postage?
Check USPS current rates. Standard cards up to 1 oz need one first-class stamp.