Business Card Printing in Oakham: Paper, Finishes and Prices

⏱️ Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Getting Your Business Cards Just Right in Oakham

Let’s be honest: your business card is often the first tangible impression you leave behind. Whether you’re networking at a local event in Oakham or simply handing one over during a meeting, the feel and look matter. At Newstyle Print, we know how important it is for your card to stand out without breaking the bank.

Business cards might seem like a small detail in today’s digital age, yet they carry weight—sometimes more than a flashy website or social media profile. When you hand someone a card, it’s a physical reminder of your brand and professionalism. This guide is designed to help you navigate through the choices—from paper types and finishes to pricing considerations—so you can select business cards that truly represent your brand’s identity and make a lasting impression.

⏱️ Reading time: 7 minutes · Updated for 2025 · UK Printing Guide

Choosing the Right Paper for Your Business Cards

It’s easy to underestimate how much the paper itself can influence the perception of your business card. The weight, texture, and finish all contribute to the tactile experience, which in turn affects how your brand is received. Most business cards hover around 350gsm, which strikes a comfortable balance between sturdiness and flexibility. However, pushing that weight up to 400gsm or even 600gsm adds a noticeable heft that can suggest premium quality.

At Newstyle Print, we typically offer a variety of paper stocks, each bringing something different to the table:

• Uncoated Paper: This option is perfect if you want a natural, earthy vibe. Uncoated stocks have a slightly rough surface that’s pleasant to touch and doesn’t glare under light. Many eco-conscious businesses prefer this for its understated, authentic feel. For example, a local artisan bakery or a handmade crafts shop might choose uncoated cards to reinforce their artisanal brand story.
• Coated Paper (Silk or Gloss): Coated stocks are smoother and offer a more finished look. Silk coating provides a soft, satin-like texture with a gentle sheen that’s elegant without being flashy. Gloss coating, on the other hand, makes colours pop dramatically, which works well for vibrant designs or photographic elements. Think of a photography studio or a graphic designer whose cards benefit from that vivid punch.
• Recycled Stocks: Sustainability is increasingly a consideration for many businesses. Using recycled paper stocks shows environmental responsibility and can resonate well with like-minded customers. These stocks don’t necessarily compromise quality; rather, they can be just as sturdy and stylish as virgin fibers, especially when paired with the right finish.

Choosing the right paper might feel overwhelming given all these options, but it’s worth thinking about how you want your brand to be experienced. Are you aiming for approachable and organic, sleek and modern, or environmentally conscious? Each choice sends subtle signals to your audience.

Finishing Touches: Elevate Your Business Cards

Paper is just the foundation. Finishes can add personality, protect your cards, and make certain elements pop. Depending on your budget and style, you can opt for one or combine several finishes to create a distinctive card.

• Lamination: This protective layer comes in matt, silk, or gloss finishes. Matt lamination lends a sophisticated, understated matte look that’s less prone to fingerprints. Silk lamination has a soft, tactile quality that feels luxurious without the shine, whereas gloss lamination boosts brightness and makes colours vibrant. For example, a wedding planner might choose silk lamination to convey elegance, while a tech startup might prefer gloss for a sleek, modern aesthetic.
• Spot UV: This finish selectively applies a glossy coating to specific areas—often logos or key text—set against a matt background. The contrast creates a subtle yet striking effect that draws attention without overwhelming the card. It’s especially effective if you want to highlight your logo or slogan.
• Foil Stamping: If you’re after a touch of luxury, foil stamping is hard to beat. Metallic pigments in gold, silver, or bronze catch the light and add a tactile shimmer. This technique is commonly used for high-end brands or those wanting to signal exclusivity. Picture a boutique jeweller or premium consultancy firm opting for gold foil to emphasize quality.
• Embossing and Debossing: These techniques add a three-dimensional element by raising (embossing) or pressing down (debossing) parts of your design. It’s a subtle way to give your card depth and texture, making it memorable not just visually but physically. It’s often combined with foil stamping for maximum impact.

Bear in mind that while these finishes can dramatically enhance your cards, they might increase production time and cost. It’s a balancing act between your desired look and budget constraints. In some cases, less can be more—overdoing finishes risks looking gaudy or detracting from the core message.

What to Expect When It Comes to Pricing

Pricing for business cards isn’t a fixed number—it fluctuates based on choices like paper stock, finish, quantity, and turnaround times. Generally, ordering in bulk reduces the price per card, which is advantageous if you anticipate handing out many at events or to clients.

For instance, a batch of 250 cards printed on 350gsm silk laminated paper will usually cost less per unit than a smaller batch of 100 cards with foil stamping and embossing. The latter involves extra steps and materials, which naturally bump up the price.

At Newstyle Print, we pride ourselves on transparency and competitive pricing. We avoid hidden fees and provide clear quotes upfront. Plus, we offer free artwork checks to make sure your files are print-ready. This service helps prevent delays or additional charges caused by last-minute fixes.

It’s worth mentioning that turnaround times can also affect cost—if you need your cards in a rush, there might be an expedited fee. Planning ahead usually saves money and stress.

Case Study: How a Local Oakham Startup Got Their Business Cards Right

Not long ago, we collaborated with a café that had just opened in Oakham’s town centre. They wanted business cards that reflected their warm, rustic atmosphere and commitment to sustainability. Together, we chose a 400gsm uncoated recycled stock paired with matt lamination to maintain a natural feel but add durability for frequent handling.

We also helped refine their artwork to ensure the earthy tones in their logo printed accurately and consistently. The end result was a card that felt substantial and authentic—just like their brand. The café owners reported that these cards were a hit at local markets and community events, helping them make a memorable impression on visitors. It’s a solid example of how thoughtful paper and finish choices can align perfectly with brand storytelling.

Final Thoughts: Making Your Business Cards Work for You

Business cards remain a powerful tool for personal connection and brand reinforcement. They say a lot about your professionalism and attention to detail. Taking the time to select the right paper, finish, and quantity might feel time-consuming, but it pays off by giving you confidence that your cards truly represent your business.

If you’re thinking about printing your own cards, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Newstyle Print. We can review your artwork, discuss options tailored to your brand, and provide a no-obligation quote. Whether you’re ordering a handful or a large batch, our goal is to help you get it right the first time—with a free artwork check to keep surprises at bay.

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Updated on 29 January 2026

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