Frequently Asked Questions — PlasmaDesign (2024)

Free Design Service

1. Is your design service really free?
2. Do you use templates?
3. How does the design process work?
4. How many revisions will you undertake?
5. Will you post a physical proof to me?
6. How long does the design process take?
7. Do you keep the design on file for future use?
8. Will you reuse my design for other clients?
9. Will you send me the source artwork?

Ordering & Payment

1. I'm happy with the proofs. What's next?
2. How much do your business cards cost?
3. How do you accept payment?
4. What credit cards do you accept?
5. Will you provide an invoice?
6. What happens once payment has been made?
7. Will you begin production of my cards before payment has been received?
8. Do you offer an account facility?
9. I am an EU resident. Can you zero-rate the VAT?

Shipping & Delivery

1. How much does shipping cost?
2. How long does shipping take?
3. What courier do you use?
4. Can I request a different courier?
5. Will you provide tracking details?
6. How do you package my order?

Translucent Plastic Cards

1. How long do the translucent plastic cards take to manufacture?
2. How thick are the translucent plastic cards?
3. What are the dimensions of a translucent plastic card?
4. Is it possible to split a batch between different names?
5. What ink colours are available for use on the translucent plastic cards?
6. Is it possible to change the colour of the translucent plastic?
7. Can you print a QR code on to the translucent plastic?
8. Can a signature strip be added to the translucent plastic cards?
9. Do metallic inks cost more than regular pigment inks?
10. Is it possible to print photos, gradients or full colour images on the translucent plastic cards?
11. Are there any limitations that need to be taken into consideration when creating a design for the translucent plastic cards?
12. Are you able to die cut the translucent plastic cards?
13. Aren't your translucent plastic cards bad for the environment?

Satin Plastic Cards

1. How long does it take to manufacture the satin plastic cards?
2. What thickness are the satin plastic cards?
3. What are the dimensions of a satin plastic card?
4. Is it possible to split an order between different names?
5. Are you able to die cut the satin plastic cards?
6. What ink colours can be used on the satin plastic?
7. Can you add a QR code to the satin plastic cards?
8. Can a signature strip be added?
9. Do metallic inks cost more than pigment inks?
10. Is it possible to print photographs, gradients or full colour graphics on to the satin plastic cards?
11. Are there any other factors that need to be taken into consideration when designing for the satin plastic cards?

Tinted Translucent Plastic Cards

1. How long does it take to produce the tinted translucent plastic cards?
2. How thick care the tinted translucent plastic cards?
3. What are the dimensions of a tinted translucent plastic card?
4. Is it possible to split a batch of cards between different names?
5. Are you able to die cut the tinted translucent plastic cards?
6. What ink colours are available for use on the tinted translucent plastic cards?
7. What plastic colours are available?
8. Can you match a specific colour?
9. Can you print a QR code on to the tinted translucent plastic cards?
10. Can a signature strip be applied to the tinted translucent plastic cards?
11. Do metallic inks cost more than pigment inks?
12. Is it possible to print photographs, gradients or full colour images on to the tinted translucent plastic?
13. Are there any limitations that need to be considered when designing a tinted translucent plastic card?

Full Colour Plastic Cards

1. How long does it take to manufacture the full colour plastic cards?
2. How thick are the full colour plastic cards?
3. I am not familar with 'microns' in relation to the full colour plastic cards. Can you please explain?
4. What are the dimensions of the full colour plastic cards?
5. Is it possible to split a batch between different names?
6. Are you able to die cut the full colour plastic cards to any shape?
7. Do these cards have a gloss or matte finish?
8. Can metallic inks be added to the full colour plastic cards?
9. Is it possible to print photographs and gradients on the full colour plastic cards?
10. Can the full colour plastic cards be personalised?
11. Can a signature strip be added to the full colour plastic cards?
12. Is it possible to punch a hole into the full colour plastic cards?

Metal Cards

1. How long does it take to produce the metal cards?
2. What type of metal is used to manufacture the cards?
3. How thick are the metal cards?
4. I'm not familiar with 'microns'. Can you give me a point of reference please?
5. What are the dimensions of the metal cards?
6. Is it possible to split a batch of metal cards between different names?
7. Are you able to cut the metal cards to any shape?
8. Is it possible to etch both sides of the metal cards?
9. Can you change the colour of the steel?
10. Is it possible to print photographs on to the metal cards?
11. Can the metal cards be personalised?
12. Can QR codes be added to the metal cards?
13. Can a signature strip be added to the metal cards?

Mini Metal Cards

1. How long does it take to manufacture the mini metal cards?
2. What type of metal is used?
3. How thick are the mini metal cards?
4. I'm not familiar with 'microns'. Can you explain?
5. What are the dimensions of the mini metal cards?
6. Is it possible to split a batch of mini metal cards between different names?
7. Are you able to cut the mini metal cards to a custom shape?
8. Is it possible to etch on both sides of the metal?
9. Is it possible to print photographs on To the mini metal cards?
10. Can the mini metal cards be personalised?
11. Are there any other limitations to consider when creating a design for a mini metal card?

Is your design service really free?

Yes. We provide a free design service to customer purchasing their business cards from us. More details on our free design service can be found here.

Do you use templates?

No. Each card design is bespoke. We tailor the artwork to your companies needs. We believe it's the only way to ensure that the card is as unique as the person or organisation it represents.

How does the design process work?

We understand that ordering a bespoke product can be a little daunting. We try to make the process as painless as possible. Once we have collected a few pieces of information, our design team puts together an initial concept and first draft. We then generate a photo-realistic digital mockup using our innovative proofing system. This shows exactly how the card would look once produced. Then, using your feedback, we make revisions until you are 100% happy with the layout.

How many revisions will you undertake?

We do not place a limit on the number of revisions we are prepared to undertake. Our only stipulation is that you, as the client, provide constructive feedback for each proof submitted. This helps ensure we can move the process forward and edge closer to a design you are happy with.

Will you post a physical proof to me?

I am afraid not. With many of our products, it is simply not viable to manufacture just one or two as proofs. Instead, we have developed a state of the art digital proofing process that shows exactly how the design would look once manufactured. We are also happy to post physical examples of previously manufactured comparable products to you. Along with the digital proof, this should allow you to form an accurate vision of how the final product will look once it arrives.

How long does the design process take?

An up to date lead time for our free design service is available here. Please bear in mind that the total time needed to complete the design process will heavily depend on the number of revisions we need to undertake before you are 100% happy with the layout.

Do you keep the design on file for future use?

Yes. We store the artwork in our database for a minimum of 3 years.

Will you reuse my design for other clients?

We do not reuse artwork or graphics that are specific to your company (logos, etc). We reserve the right to reuse more generic graphics that we have created (e.g. icons, watermarks, etc).

Will you send me the source artwork?

We do not release source artwork. However, we are happy to send elements of the artwork that are specific to you and your company (logos etc) once an order has been placed.

I'm happy with the proofs. What's next?

Simply drop us an email confirming the quantity required and the billing/shipping address along with the approved proof. We will then email an invoice to you that will allow you to complete the order online, or by phone.

How much do your business cards cost?

Prices for all of our products can be found here.

How do you accept payment?

We can accept payment online using all mainstream credit cards and PayPal. We can also accept payment over the phone. Our contact number is available here. We can also accept payment by bank transfer. Please contact us for banking details.

What credit cards do you accept?

We accept VISA, Mastercard and AMEX.

Will you provide an invoice?

Yes. Once you have confirmed the quantity required we will send you an invoice by email. We'll also send a second copy marked "paid" once the order has been placed.

What happens once payment has been made?

Once payment has been received we will email a receipt to you and begin manufacturing your order. An up to date lead time for our products can be found here. Once manufacturing is complete we will ship your order using a reputable courier with track and trace capabilties. More information on shipping can be found here.

Will you begin production of my cards before payment has been received?

No. We require payment at the time the order is placed. The manufactured product is unique to you and cannot be restocked. As such we require payment before production begins.

Do you offer an account facility?

No. We do not currently offer an account facility.

I am an EU resident. Can you zero-rate the VAT?

VAT is no longer payable on goods imported to EU from UK from 1st January 2021. Please note that you may be liable for import duties levied by your local customs authority.

How much does shipping cost?

More details on shipping, as well as price guidance, can be found here.

How long does shipping take?

Once the product has been manufacured we ship the order using a reputable courier with track and trace capabilities. Shipping to US and Canadian addresses generally takes 24-48 hours. Shipping to UK addresses takes 24 hours. Shipping to Eurozone countries generally takes 48-72 hours. Please allow 48-72 hours for consignments to other countries. More details on shipping can be found here.

Which courier do you use?

For UK orders we use Fedex UK or Interlink Express. For all other countries we use Fedex International Priority service.

Can I request a different courier?

I am afraid not. We insist on using the courier of our choice.

Will you provide tracking details?

Yes. We will email a tracking number to you on the day the order is collected from us.

How do you package my order?

UK orders are shipped in sealed boxes that are protected with bubble wrap. Order to all other countries are shipped in sealed boxes that are protected inside a strong Fedex box. Padding inside the Fedex box will be used if required. Every order shipped is packed by the team member responsible for producing your batch of cards.

How long do the translucent plastic cards take to manufacture?

Up to date manufacturing lead times for all of our products can be found here.

How thick are the translucent plastic cards?

Our translucent plastic cards are all 760 micron thick. This is the same thickness as a standard credit card.

What are the dimensions of a translucent plastic card?

Our translucent plastic cards all measure 86mm x 54mm. This is the same dimensions as a standard credit card.

Is it possible to split a batch between different names?

Yes. In cases where a batch needs to be split between multiple names we charge the listed price for the total volume of cards and then add just the cost of the additional print plates required.

What ink colours are available for use on the translucent plastic cards?

We carry a wide range of ink colours suitable for use on our translucent plastic cards. A swatch of the most commonly used is available here.

Is it possible to change the colour of the translucent plastic?

It sounds as though you may be interested in our tinted translucent plastic cards. More information on this type of card is available here.

Can you print a QR code on to the translucent plastic?

Yes. We can print a QR code on our translucent plastic cards. However, it is important to print the QR code using a high contrast ink (black, dark blue etc).

Can a signature strip be added to the translucent plastic cards?

Yes, but bear in mind that whatever is printed on the back is easily visible when viewed from the front.

Do metallic inks cost more than regular pigment inks?

No. Metallic inks are priced the same as pigment inks.

Is it possible to print photos, gradients or full colour images on the translucent plastic cards?

No. To print these types of cards we first etch the artwork into a metal plate. We then heat up that plate and apply it under pressure to the blank plastic. Between the two runs a large ink ribbon. The heat and pressure transfer the ink from the ribbon to the plastic card. This printing system allows us to use beautiful metallic inks and provides a good bond between the ink and plastic. But it prevents us from reproducing full colour graphics like photographs. However, we do produce a full colour plastic business card that is more suited when reproducing photographs etc. More details can be found here.

Are there any limitations that need to be taken into consideration when creating a design for the translucent plastic cards?

Yes. The process used to print our translucent plastic cards differs from more conventional methods (CMYK etc). We advise reading through our documentation. We are happy to offer advice and technical assistance and will do our best to make the process as painless as possible.

Are you able to die cut the translucent plastic cards?

We do not currently have the ability to cut our plastic cards to custom shapes.

Aren't your translucent plastic cards bad for the environment?

No. Since June 1st, 2018, all of our translucent plastic cards have been produced using environmentally friendly polymer and vegatable-based inks. The plastic is biodegradable, compostable and recyclable.

How long does it take to produce the tinted translucent plastic cards?

Up to date manufacturing lead times for all of our products can be found here.

How thick are the tinted translucent plastic cards?

Our tinted translucent plastic cards are all 760 micron thick. This is the same thickness as a standard credit card.

What are the dimensions of a tinted translucent plastic card?

Our tinted translucent plastic cards all measure 86mm x 54mm. This is the same dimensions as a standard credit card.

Is it possible to split a batch of cards between different names?

Yes. In cases where a batch needs to be split between multiple names we charge the listed price for the total volume of cards and then add just the cost of the additional print plates required.

Are you able to die cut the tinted translucent plastic cards?

We do not currently have the ability to cut our plastic cards to custom shapes.

What ink colours are available for use on the tinted translucent plastic cards?

We carry a wide range of ink colours suitable for use on our tinted translucent plastic cards. A swatch of the most commonly used is available here.

What plastic colours are available?

We currently produce the tinted translucent cards in smoked grey, cyan, blue, magenta, purple, orange, yellow, red, lime and green.

Can you match a specific colour?

Not at present. We are working on this.

Can you print a QR code on to the tinted translucent plastic cards?

Yes. We can print a QR code on our translucent plastic cards. However, it is important to print the QR code using a high contrast ink (black, dark blue etc).

Can a signature strip be applied to the tinted translucent plastic cards?

Yes, but bear in mind that whatever is printed on the back is easily visible when viewed from the front.

Do metallic inks cost more than pigment inks?

No. Metallic inks are priced the same as pigment inks.

Is it possible to print photographs, gradients or full colour images on to the tinted translucent plastic?

No. To print these types of cards we first etch the artwork into a metal plate. We then heat up that plate and apply it under pressure to the blank plastic. Between the two runs a large ink ribbon. The heat and pressure transfer the ink from the ribbon to the plastic card. This printing system allows us to use beautiful metallic inks and provides a good bond between the ink and plastic. But it prevents us from reproducing full colour graphics like photographs. However, we do produce a full colour plastic business card that is more suited when reproducing photographs etc. More details can be found here.

Are there any limitations that need to be considered when designing a tinted translucent plastic card?

Yes. The process used to print our tinted translucent plastic cards differs from more conventional methods (CMYK etc). We advise reading through our documentation. We are happy to offer advice and technical assistance and will do our best to make the process as painless as possible.

How long does it take to manufacture the satin plastic cards?

Up to date manufacturing lead times for all of our products can be found here.

What thickness are the satin plastic cards?

Our satin plastic cards are all 760 micron thick. This is the same thickness as a standard credit card.

What are the dimensions of a satin plastic card?

Our satin plastic cards all measure 86mm x 54mm. This is the same dimensions as a standard credit card.

Is it possible to split an order between different names?

Yes. In cases where a batch needs to be split between multiple names we charge the listed price for the total volume of cards and then add just the cost of the additional print plates required.

Are you able to die cut the satin plastic cards?

We do not currently have the ability to cut our plastic cards to custom shapes.

What ink colours can be used on the satin plastic?

We carry a wide range of ink colours suitable for use on our satin plastic cards. A swatch of the most commonly used is available here.

Can you add a QR code to the satin plastic cards?

We can print a QR code on our satin black plastic cards. However, it is important to print the QR code using a high contrast ink (white, light blue etc).

Can a signature strip be added?

Yes. We can add a signature strip to the satin plastic cards.

Do metallic inks cost more than pigment inks?

No. Metallic inks are priced the same as pigment inks.

Is it possible to print photographs, gradients or full colour graphics on to the satin plastic cards?

No. To print these types of cards we first etch the artwork into a metal plate. We then heat up that plate and apply it under pressure to the blank plastic. Between the two runs a large ink ribbon. The heat and pressure transfer the ink from the ribbon to the plastic card. This printing system allows us to use beautiful metallic inks and provides a good bond between the ink and plastic. But it prevents us from reproducing full colour graphics like photographs. However, we do produce a full colour plastic business card that is more suited when reproducing photographs etc. More details can be found here.

Are there any other factors that need to be taken into consideration when designing for the satin plastic cards?

Yes. The process used to print our satin plastic cards differs from more conventional methods (CMYK etc). We advise reading through our documentation. We are happy to offer advice and technical assistance and will do our best to make the process as painless as possible.

How long does it take to manufacture the full colour plastic cards?

Up to date manufacturing lead times for all of our products can be found here.

How thick are the full colour plastic cards?

Our full colour plastic cards are available in three thicknesses (420, 680 and 760 micron).

I am not familar with 'microns' in relation to the full colour plastic cards. Can you please explain?

Sure. A micron is 1000th of a millimetre. The thickest card is 760 micron. This is the same as a standard credit card. 680 micron is very slightly thinner and slightly more flexible. However, it takes a trained eye to spot the difference unless you have examples of each thickness in each hand. 420 micron is considerably thinner and far more flexible.

What are the dimensions of the full colour plastic cards?

Our full colour plastic cards all measure 86mm x 54mm. This is the same dimensions as a standard credit card.

Is it possible to split a batch between different names?

Yes. In cases where a batch needs to be split between multiple names we charge the listed price for the total volume of cards and then add just the cost of the additional print plates required.

Are you able to die cut the full colour plastic cards to any shape?

We do not currently have the ability to cut our plastic cards to custom shapes.

Do these cards have a gloss or matte finish?

Our full colour plastic cards are available with either a glossy or matte finish. The choice of finish does not affect the price.

Can metallic inks be added to the full colour plastic cards?

Under certain circ*mstances it is possible to apply metallic inks to the surface of the full colour cards. Please contact us for a custom quotation.

Is it possible to print photographs and gradients on the full colour plastic cards?

Yes. Our full colour plastic cards are printed using a conventional CMYK digital printing process that is suitable for reproduction of photographs and gradients.

Can the full colour plastic cards be personalised?

Yes. We can print variable data or sequential numbering on to this type of card.

Can a signature strip be added to the full colour plastic cards?

Yes. We can apply a signature strip to the surface of the full colour plastic cards.

Is it possible to punch a hole into the full colour plastic cards?

Yes. We can punch a hole or a slot through this type of card..

How long does it take to produce the metal cards?

Up to date manufacturing lead times for all of our products can be found here.

What type of metal is used to manufacture the cards?

We use rolled 304 grade stainless steel.

How thick are the metal cards?

Our stainless steel and black metal cards are available in three thicknesses (300, 500 and 800 micron). The gold and rose gold metal cards are available at 300 and 500 micron.

I'm not familiar with 'microns'. Can you give me a point of reference please?

Sure. A micron is 1000th of a millimetre. An average credit card is 760 micron thick (0.76 of a millimetre). The 300 micron metal cards are thinner than a standard credit card but because they are manufactured using stainless steel, they have about the same rigidity when flexed between thumb and finger. The 800 micron cards (the thickest we produce) are extremely rigid and difficult to flex. The 500 micron sits somewhere between the two.

What are the dimensions of the metal cards?

We are able to produce the metal cards in a range of sizes and shapes.

Is it possible to split a batch of metal cards between different names?

Yes. In cases where a batch needs to be split between multiple names we charge the listed price for the total volume of cards and then add just the cost of the additional tooling required.

Are you able to cut the metal cards to any shape?

Yes. The metal cards can be cut to the shape of your choosing. As long as the perimeter of the card does not exceed the standard 86mm x 54mm there is no extra charge.

Is it possible to etch both sides of the metal cards?

Yes.

What colours are available?

Our original and mini metal cards have a silver finish. We also produce a matt black metal card as well as yellow gold and rose gold options..

Is it possible to print photographs on to the metal cards?

No. We do not print on to the metal cards. We etch into the surface or cut all the way through the card (or a combination of both).

Can the metal cards be personalised?

Yes. We can add variable data or a sequential number to the cards. There are a couple of different methods of acheiving this with varying degrees of additional cost associated with each. Please contact us for more details.

Can QR codes be added to the metal cards?

We can print a QR code in black on our metal cards. We recommend that the QR measures at least 20mm x 20mm.

Can a signature strip be added to the metal cards?

We can etch a panel into the surface of the metal that will allow the cardholder to sign the card. However, please be aware that care much be taken when choosing a suitable pen. For example, a biro, commonly used to sign credit cards, will not work.

How long does it take to manufacture the mini metal cards?

Up to date manufacturing lead times for all of our products can be found here.

What type of metal is used?

We use 304 grade rolled stainless steel.

How thick are the mini metal cards?

Our mini metal cards are available in three thicknesses (200, 300 and 500 micron).

I'm not familiar with 'microns'. Can you explain?

Sure. A micron is 1000th of a millimetre. An average credit card is 760 micron thick (0.76 of a millimetre). The 200 micron metal cards are thinner than a standard credit card but because they are manufactured using stainless steel, they have about the same rigidity when flexed between thumb and finger. The 500 micron cards (the thickest we produce) are extremely rigid and difficult to flex. The 300 micron sits somewhere between the two.

What are the dimensions of the mini metal cards?

Our mini metal cards measure 65mm x 35mm.

Is it possible to split a batch of mini metal cards between different names?

Yes. In cases where a batch needs to be split between multiple names we charge the listed price for the total volume of cards and then add just the cost of the additional tooling required.

Are you able to cut the mini metal cards to a custom shape?

Yes. The metal cards can be cut to the shape of your choosing. As long as the perimeter of the card does not exceed the standard 65mm x 35mm there is no extra charge.

Is it possible to etch on both sides of the metal?

Yes.

Is it possible to print photographs on To the mini metal cards?

No. We do not print on to the metal cards. We etch into the surface or cut all the way through the card (or a combination of both).

Can the mini metal cards be personalised?

Yes. We can add variable data or a sequential number to the cards. There are a couple of different methods of acheiving this with varying degrees of additional cost associated with each. Please contact us for more details.

Are there any other limitations to consider when creating a design for a mini metal card?

Yes. The process used to manufacture our metal cards differs from more conventional methods. We advise reading through our documentation. We are happy to offer advice and technical assistance and will do our best to make the process as painless as possible.