Business Card Design Software

Q: I'm looking for advice and info on MS-Windows based software packages to design and print business cards. Apparently there are several out there and come with special stationary to print them on using laser printers. I'd like to get one of these, either from the public domain or from commercial vendors. At current prices, is it cheaper to design and print your own business cards using such software, or get it made at your friendly neighborhood printshop ? For reference, I live in the Calif Bay area, US of A.

A: -In lots of 1000 or more cards, a print shop is cheaper, especially if you shop around. But the convenience of being able to make small quantities of cards with a laser, quickly, makes it something to consider, too. Also, perforated laser stock for cards is kind of expensive, and available in only a few dozen designs. I suggest you pick up a copy of Flash magazine, if you haven't seen it already. You'll like it. -Q: I'm looking for advice and info on MS-Windows based software packages to design and print business cards. A: As others have mentioned, the

business cards done by computer are generally a bit more expensive and less appealing than those done by professional printers. I create my own using Microsoft Word and the Avery Laser Business Cards which is stock 5371. I do this as I don't use a great deal of cards and I like to be able to customize them dynamically depending upon the audience. Most good word processing software will provide you with the ability to print on the business card stock and Avery includes instructions in the box for a variety of packages. There are other business card stock available which is more appealing to the eye than the Avery stock and is just as easy to use. It's just more expensive.