Kraft Business Cards
Short answer
The kraft substrate becomes part of the design. Areas left unprinted show the paper colour unless a separate white-print or other suitable process is agreed. Start with contrasting text and an actual stock sample. A brown appearance does not establish recycled content or environmental superiority.
Choose kraft for its appearance and texture, not an unsupported eco promise. Shade, surface and composition vary between stocks. A design approved against white needs another assessment on kraft, particularly when it includes brand colours, pale graphics, a photograph or a compact QR code.
Key facts
- Background
- Actual substrate shade
- Logo
- Contrast and agreed colour expectations
- Writing
- Pen test on the selected surface
- Composition
- Material evidence rather than appearance
Logo and light colours
Ordinary CMYK printing does not add white ink. Assess pale colours and tonal images together with the paper background rather than relying solely on a screen preview. If a logo requires a white or bright base, compare another stock or a separately agreed printing method and its cost.
QR and handwritten fields
Keep a clear area around the QR code and avoid making it excessively small on a textured background. Test at the actual size on the chosen stock. If the card also holds an appointment date, separately check pen drying and ink spread; successful QR scanning does not establish handwriting performance.
Material evidence and finishing
Describe recycled-fibre content or certification only from documentation for the actual stock. Heavier paper does not mean waterproof paper, and lamination can change texture and recycling requirements. Verify support for any environmental statement before printing it on the card or accompanying packaging.
Kraft design decisions
| Element | Check |
|---|---|
| White logo | Substrate colour or separate white process |
| Colour photo | Tone and detail on an actual sample |
| QR | Contrast, clear margin and scanning |
| Environmental claim | Documentation for the specific stock |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is kraft always recycled paper?
How will a white logo appear?
Is kraft necessarily cheaper?
Must I remove a photograph or colour logo?
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