Business cards are still one of the simplest ways to share your contact details and leave a lasting impression. People value something they can hold and keep, especially at meetings, events and first introductions.
This guide covers the standard business card size in Kenya, how to set up bleed for printing, free templates versus custom design, what to put on each side and what business cards cost.
Why Business Cards Still Matter
A business card carries your name, phone number, email and business name. Even in a digital world, it works because it is easy to share in person, quick to read and easy to keep. A well-designed card builds trust immediately; a poor one is ignored or thrown away.
Business Card Size in Kenya
- Standard size in Kenya: 85 × 55 mm
- US size: 89 × 51 mm
Bleed (very important): add 3 mm on every side, so you design at 91 × 61 mm. Keep text and logos at least 3 to 5 mm inside the trim line. This stops anything important being cut off when the cards are trimmed.
Wrong sizes and missing bleed are the most common reasons business cards come back from the printer looking wrong.
What to Put on a Business Card
Front:
- Logo or business name
- Optional short tagline
Back:
- Your name and job title
- Phone number (and WhatsApp if different)
- Email address
- Website or office location
- Optional QR code that saves your details to a phone
Some designs fit everything on one side; using both sides gives a cleaner layout. A free vCard QR code on the back lets people save your contact in one scan. Learn more in our guide to what a vCard is.
Business Card Design Tips
- Use one or two clean, readable fonts, never smaller than about 7 pt.
- Don't overcrowd: include only essential details.
- Use your brand colours consistently.
- Add your logo as a vector file so it prints sharply.
- Leave white space around the text and QR code.
- Print a test sheet before the full run.
Paper and Finishes
Ask your printer about:
- Thickness: heavier card (around 300 to 350 gsm) feels more professional.
- Matt or gloss lamination: matt looks modern and is easy to write on; gloss makes colours pop.
- Spot UV or foil: a raised gloss or metallic detail on the logo for a premium feel.
- Rounded corners: a small detail that makes cards stand out.
Free Business Card Templates
Templates on Canva or Adobe Express are a quick, low-cost starting point: you edit the text and export a print file.
Advantages: fast, free and easy for beginners.
Limitations: the designs are not unique, many businesses use the same layouts, and you have limited control over branding. Check that the template is set to 85 × 55 mm with bleed before printing.
Custom Business Card Design
A custom card is made for your business only. You get a unique layout that reflects your brand, proper spacing and balance, consistent colours and typography, and print-ready files. It matters most for businesses that rely on trust, such as consultants, agencies, medical providers and professional services.
Free Templates vs Custom Design
| Option | Best for | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Free template | Individuals, new startups, temporary use | Free, plus printing |
| Custom design | Businesses that want to look professional and stand out | From KES 1,000 for design |
How Much Do Business Cards Cost in Kenya?
Design typically costs KES 1,000 to 5,000. Printing depends on quantity, card thickness and finishes. Our packages:
- Starter Card Design: KES 1,000. A clean, simple design, delivered print-ready.
- Business Cards + Print: KES 2,500. Design and printing, ready to use.
- Premium Cards + Print: KES 3,500. A high-end finish for a more premium feel.
See all packages for details.
Business Card FAQs
What is the standard business card size in Kenya?
85 × 55 mm. Design at 91 × 61 mm to include 3 mm bleed on each side.
Should I print on one side or both?
Both sides usually look cleaner: logo on the front, contact details on the back. One side is fine for a very simple card.
Should I put a QR code on my business card?
Yes, if it saves your contact details or opens your website. Print it at least about 2 cm wide so phones scan it easily.
What file should I send to the printer?
A high-resolution PDF with bleed and crop marks, in the colour mode your printer asks for (usually CMYK).
What Should You Choose?
If you need a card for immediate use, a free template will do. If you are building a business and want to be taken seriously, a custom design is the better long-term choice. Many businesses start with a template and upgrade as they grow. Ready for yours? See our print design service.
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