There are several methods that can be used to choose the format for the layout of your business card. The format can be determined through custom designing or by selecting a template in various programs.
Custom Designing provides you with many more options when determining how your business card will look. You can create just about whatever your imagination allows. Copy placement, typestyles, ink colors and paper types are only limited by what your printer has available. While a custom design will cost you more, there is a greater chance of your prospect keeping a uniquely designed card.
If you are on a limited budget, using a template to create your business card may be a suitable option. Templates can usually be found in word processing software such as Microsoft Word or stand-alone programs. There are also several companies on the Internet that will lead you through the process. Templates are usually limited to certain graphics, backgrounds, colors, size and paper type. Text is usually limited to certain areas of the card and often you can combine the graphics you want with the text layout you prefer. Because of this, it is often easy to recognize a template created card, but the price is usually right.
Printing Options
In the label section of most office supply stores you will find packages of business cards that can be printed with your laser or ink-jet printer. They normally come pre-perforated, ten cards to a sheet. Label companies like Avery give away template software to help you design your cards and print them out. While this is the least expensive option, it is very easy to see that the cards were torn apart. While this may be okay for a personal card, it looks very unprofessional for a business.
Your second option is to use an on-line printing company like vistaprint.com that will allow you to use their template system or you can upload your own that you had designed for you or created in software like Photoshop. You are limited as to sizes, shapes and card stock, but they have many options like matte or glossy finish (pay the extra for glossy), printing on the back and other matching products.
The third option is to use the services of a local printer. I would choose a locally owned printer over the big national companies. The big companies generally send all their work out to big commercial printers, so you won't get a lot of help in designing your card. A local printer should be able to show you a portfolio of business cards that he has printed for his other clients. If you like the work he has done to help others design their cards, then work through all of the options with him to design the layout you are satisfied with. Be sure to bring a printed copy of your logo/graphics, as well as a digital copy of the artwork for him to use. While this may be the priciest option, don't be afraid to speak with several printers and compare prices. Finding a local printer that you feel comfortable with and develop a relationship with could save you a lot in the future when it comes time for more extensive advertising.