A standard business card (350 gsm board, 85 x 55 mm, CMYK double-sided) costs from EUR 25 for 100 pieces; a premium version with foil stamping, spot UV or soft-touch lamination runs EUR 60-120 for 100 pieces. This guide covers paper selection, dimensions, finishing options and file preparation — so you get professional results without overpaying.
Paper — Weight and Coating
The standard business card is printed on 350 gsm card. Thick enough to feel solid, yet compatible with both digital and offset presses.
| Weight | Use | Feel |
|---|---|---|
| 300 gsm | Economy card | Thin, everyday |
| 350 gsm | Standard card | Solid, professional |
| 400 gsm | Premium card | Thick, prestigious |
| 600 gsm+ (duplex) | Luxury card | Substantial, exceptional |
Coating: Matt (elegant, understated), gloss (vivid colours, contrast), uncoated (kraft, natural feel). For cards with foil stamping or spot UV, choose matt coating — the contrast between a matt base and glossy finishing is visually most effective.
Dimensions and Formats
Standard size in Slovenia and the EU: 85 x 55 mm. Alternatives:
- 90 x 50 mm — more compact, popular in creative industries
- Square 55 x 55 mm — unconventional format that stands out
- Folded — double the surface area, suitable for menus, price lists, maps
- Rounded corners — softer look, +EUR 0.02/pc
Finishing That Makes the Difference
A basic card costs EUR 25 for 100 pieces. A premium card with finishing runs EUR 60–120 for 100 pieces. The difference in impression? Enormous.
| Finishing | Effect | Extra cost (100 pcs) |
|---|---|---|
| Foil stamping (gold/silver) | Metallic sheen, premium feel | +EUR 15–25 |
| Spot UV varnish | Glossy highlights on matt base | +EUR 10–20 |
| Soft-touch lamination | Velvety feel | +EUR 8–12 |
| Embossing/debossing | Raised/recessed relief | +EUR 20–35 |
| Rounded corners | Softer, modern look | +EUR 2–5 |
| Edge painting | Coloured card edge | +EUR 15–25 |
File Preparation
- Format: PDF/X-1a or AI
- Size: final dimensions + 3 mm bleed on each side
- Safety margin: 5 mm from trim edge — text and logos must not be closer
- Colour space: CMYK
- Image resolution: 300 dpi
- Fonts: converted to outlines
Prices by Quantity
| Quantity | Standard (350 gsm, CMYK) | Premium (400 gsm, matt lam + foil) |
|---|---|---|
| 100 pcs | EUR 25 | EUR 65 |
| 250 pcs | EUR 35 | EUR 85 |
| 500 pcs | EUR 45 | EUR 110 |
| 1,000 pcs | EUR 55 | EUR 140 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does business card printing take?
Standard cards: 3-5 working days. With finishing (foil, embossing): 5-7 working days. Express without finishing: 24-48 hours.
Can I print just 1 business card?
Yes. With digital printing, you can print from 1 card — for example, a test copy or prototype. The price for 1-10 cards is around EUR 5-8.
What is the difference between matt and gloss lamination?
Matt lamination gives a discreet, elegant look and is better for cards with foil stamping or spot UV. Gloss lamination enhances colours and contrast but shows fingerprints more readily.
Full overview: Complete Guide to Printing in Slovenia
Last updated: April 2026
Posodobljeno: 12-04-2026