The Search for Excellence: What Defines the Best Paper for Calling Cards?
1. Integral Pulp-Dyed Color
2. Structural Rigidity and Weight
3. Compatibility with Luxury Finishes
GF Smith Colorplan: 47 Iconic Shades of Distinction
| Category | Popular Colorplan Shades | Brand Impression |
| The Classics | Ebony Black, White Frost, Real Grey | Authority, Precision, Timelessness |
| Deep and Rich | Claret, Imperial Blue, Forest Green | Luxury, Heritage, Stability |
| Vibrant and Modern | Marrs Green, Bright Red, Factory Yellow | Innovation, Creativity, Energy |
| Subtle and Organic | Natural, Cashmere, Stone |
Approachability, Elegance, Craftsmanship |
Because these colors are pulp-dyed, they offer a depth and saturation that printed colors cannot replicate. There are no dot patterns, no ink scuffing, and no fading—just pure, archival-quality color.
Engineering the Ultimate Card: The Power of Duplex Construction
At OddPlanPrint, we believe that the best paper for calling cards should be as durable as it is beautiful. To achieve this, we utilize a specialized duplex construction method. Instead of using a single thin sheet, we laminate two premium Colorplan sheets together.
This process creates a card with exceptional thickness:
- 540gsm (approx. 30pt ): Created by laminating two 270gsm sheets.
- 700gsm (approx. 38pt): Created by laminating two 350gsm sheets.
Why Duplex Matters
Duplexing does more than just add weight; it unlocks new design possibilities. You can choose to have the same color on both sides for a monolithic, ultra-thick look, or you can pair two different colors—such as a dark navy front with a crisp white back. This creates a striking 'sandwich' effect that reveals the card's quality the moment it is viewed from the side.
Explore these options further on our Colorplan Business Cards product page.
Precision Finishing: Elevating the Substrate
When you start with the best paper for calling cards, you don't need to over-design. The paper itself does the heavy lifting. Our finishing techniques are designed to interact with the physical properties of Colorplan to create a multi-sensory experience.
Applying metallic or matte foils against the deep, tactile surface of Colorplan creates a luminous contrast. Matte gold on Claret or white foil on Ebony Black are perennial favorites for high-end branding.
2. Blind Debossing and Embossing
Because Colorplan is so thick (especially in 700gsm), it can hold deep, crisp impressions. Blind debossing (pressing into the paper without ink) creates a subtle play of light and shadow that invites the recipient to run their fingers across the card.
For brands that require absolute color accuracy for their logos, we use Pantone spot colors. Unlike CMYK printing, Pantone inks are mixed specifically for your order and sit beautifully on Colorplan's uncoated surface, resulting in a velvety, matte finish.
Why Professionals Choose OddPlanPrint for Colorplan Cards
Finding the best paper for calling cards is only half the battle; the other half is expert execution. At OddPlanPrint, we combine the heritage of GF Smith Colorplan with modern precision engineering.
- Free Professional Layout Assistance: Don't have a design file? Our team will help you create a professional layout that maximizes the impact of your chosen Colorplan stock.
- Global Shipping: We deliver our premium cards to professionals worldwide, ensuring that no matter where you are, your first impression is world-class.
- Commitment to Quality: Every order undergoes a rigorous review process to ensure that the final product meets our exacting standards for alignment, impression depth, and color consistency.
Related Guides
If you are exploring premium printing these guides may also help.
→ Handmade Business Cards vs Digital Printing | Brand Quality Guide
→ Why Colored Paper Looks More Premium Than Colored Printing
→ Business Card Paper Guide: Cotton, Black, Thickness and Premium Stocks
FAQs - Best Paper for Calling Card: Why GF Smith Colorplan Stands Out
Q. What is the best thickness for a luxury calling card?
While standard cards are often around 14pt to 16pt, luxury calling cards typically start at 30pt (540gsm). For those who want a truly substantial, unbendable feel, we recommend 38pt (700gsm).
Q. Can I have different colors on the front and back of my card?
Yes! Through our duplex construction process, you can select any two colors from the 47-shade Colorplan range to create a unique front-and-back contrast.
Q. Does Colorplan paper work well with QR codes?
Absolutely. While Colorplan is a tactile, uncoated paper, we ensure that QR codes are printed with high contrast (such as black ink on a lighter stock or white foil on a darker stock) to ensure they remain perfectly scannable.
Q. What is the difference between Colorplan and standard colored cardstock?
Standard colored cardstock is often just white paper with ink printed on the surface. Colorplan is pulp-dyed, meaning the color is consistent throughout the entire sheet, including the edges. It also offers a superior tactile texture that feels much more premium than smooth, commercial stocks.
Q. How many colors are available in the Colorplan range?
There are 47 iconic shades available, ranging from vibrant primaries to sophisticated neutrals and deep, dark tones.