Business Card Paper & Finish Guide: Which Card Is Right for You?

Name: Devon Printing Inc.
Address: 3118 W Devon Ave, Chicago, IL, 60659, US
Telephone: +1-773-465-2788
Price range: $$

16pt vs 14pt, UV vs matte, spot UV, raised foil and painted edges — a plain-English guide to choosing the right business card.

By Devon Printing Team · October 20, 2026 · 1 min read

Your business card is often the first physical thing a customer keeps from you. The paper and finish say as much as the design. Here's how to choose.

Thickness: 14pt vs 16pt vs ultra thick

14pt is a solid, professional card. 16pt feels noticeably sturdier and is our most popular choice. Ultra-thick sandwich and painted-edge cards are for brands that want to be unforgettable.

Coatings

UV gloss: vibrant colors and a shiny, durable surface.
Matte: soft, elegant and glare-free.
Uncoated: a natural feel you can write on — great for appointment cards.

Premium finishes

Spot UV adds gloss only where you want it, like your logo. Raised foil adds gold, silver or rose gold you can feel. Combine them for maximum impact.

Our recommendation

For most businesses, 16pt with UV on both sides is the best value. For luxury, real estate and beauty brands, spot UV on velvet or raised foil makes a lasting first impression.