Designing your own business cards on the computer is not hard to do, and it will also save you some money. You can use a photo quality inkjet printer and create colorful cards that even contain photographs without having to bear the expense of a professional printer. It is the objective of this article to deal briefly with the history of business cards and reveal some available options in print-it yourself business cards.

Visiting cards, or calling cards, were the forerunner of what is known today as business cards. The first business cards appeared in China during the 15th century and later in Europe during the 17th century. These cards were used in accordance with a set of sophisticated rules. Visiting cards eventually evolved into other types of cards, including trade cards and greeting cards.

The first business cards, which were called visiting cards, appeared in England during the 17th century. London merchants were the first to use the cards. They helped direct potential customers to the merchant’s location and also advertise goods or services.

There was a significant difference between visiting cards and business cards in the United States during the 19th century. Society's elite mainly used visiting cards to show that they had honored their social duties. On the other hand, business cards were used solely for the purposes of business, just like the name implies. It was highly improper to use a business card instead of the required visiting card after making a social call.

In today’s world, business cards are a staple and come in multiple colors and materials. In a business man's arsenal, they remain some of the most important tools.

There are numerous stock options available when choosing to print your business cards. There are a wide variety of colors available for blank and uncoated cards, including business cards with photo matte coating. There are a variety of cards available with different background and border designs. Fortunately business cards are a standard size, which makes it simple to print them yourself.

Software programs usually have templates designed specifically for business cards creation. The most popular program for this is Microsoft Word®. To find the templates go to tools > letters & mailing > envelopes & labels > options > Avery 3612 Business Cards. The great advantage of this is that you can print as many as you need for the time being and can reprint more in the future.

Business cards may be small, but they have a powerful effect.

About the Author:
John Oberhauser manages The Image Shop, which carries several types of printable paper. If you want to make your own business cards, The Image Shop is the place to go. From Lion Office Products to invitation paper, you can print designer invitations, printable paper, and business cards for less.