Postcard Printing in Black Mountain

When Postcard Printing Makes Sense

Postcards serve two broad purposes: mailing and handing out. The design and specifications differ depending on which you need.

Direct mail marketing
Postcards are one of the most cost-effective direct mail formats. They do not require envelopes or inserting, and they can be mailed at postcard rates if they meet USPS size requirements. Local businesses use them to announce sales, promote new services, or remind customers that they exist.

Event promotion
A postcard can promote a grand opening, a festival, a workshop, or a seasonal event. It is substantial enough to be kept on a desk or refrigerator, unlike a thin flyer that gets discarded.

Customer appreciation and reminders
Thank-you cards, appointment reminders, or seasonal greetings. A printed postcard feels more personal than an email and does not get lost in an inbox.

Handouts and take-aways
Postcards work as take-away materials at events, trade shows, or in-store displays. They are sturdier than flyers and can carry a coupon or a QR code on the back.

If you need a folded piece, a brochure or booklet may suit your project better. Postcards are specifically for single-sheet, unfolded printed cards.

Standard Postcard Sizes and Specifications

The size of your postcard affects both the postage rate and how much information fits on the card.

Common sizes
The most common postcard sizes are 4″ x 6″, 5″ x 7″, and 6″ x 9″ . The 4″ x 6″ size is the standard for direct mail and typically mails at the lowest postcard rate. Larger sizes may mail at letter rates or require different handling . When you request a quote, tell us whether the postcard is for mailing or handouts, and we can help you choose a size that fits your budget and purpose.

Paper stock
Postcards are printed on cardstock, not standard paper. The weight of the stock affects how the card feels and how well it survives the mail. Heavier stocks feel more substantial and resist bending and worn edges. The specific stocks available depend on current supply, and we can discuss options when you request a quote.

Coating and finish
Postcards can be printed with glossy, matte, or uncoated finishes. Glossy finishes make colors pop and protect the surface. Matte finishes reduce glare and are easier to write on. Uncoated stocks have a natural feel and are practical if you want recipients to be able to jot notes on the card.

Single or double-sided
Postcards for mailing must be printed on both sides, because the back needs space for the address, postage, and possibly a barcode. Handout postcards can be single-sided if you only need an image and message on one side.

Designing a Postcard That Works

A postcard has limited space and a specific job. The design should account for both.

For mailing postcards: the back matters as much as the front.
The USPS requires space on the back for the address and postage. If you are mailing your postcards, leave the right half of the back clear for the address and postage area, and include a strip along the bottom for the postal barcode . Your design should account for this from the start. If you are not mailing the cards yourself, this may not apply.

The front should communicate in seconds.
The image, headline, and main message should be readable at a glance. Postcards are not read like letters. They are scanned quickly. A strong image, a clear offer, and a call to action (a phone number, a website, a QR code) do more than dense text.

Bleed and safe areas.
If your design extends to the edge of the card, you will need bleed—extra image area that gets trimmed off during production. Text and important elements should stay inside a safe margin so they are not cut off. When you request a quote, we can tell you what specifications to use for your file.

File preparation.
Vector files (such as .AI, .EPS, or .PDF) work best for postcards because they handle text and logos cleanly. High-resolution images (300 DPI at the print size) are necessary for any photos. If your artwork is a low-resolution image or a document assembled in a word processor, it may need adjustment before printing.

How the Postcard Printing Process Works

You do not need to have every detail decided before you contact us. Here is what the process generally looks like.

1. You tell us about the postcard and its purpose. Is it for mailing or handouts? What is it promoting? Who is the audience? Share any existing design files or describe what you want the postcard to communicate.

2. We discuss size, paper, and quantity. The size affects postage if you are mailing. The paper affects how the card feels. The quantity depends on your distribution plan. We will help you choose options that fit your situation.

3. Your artwork is prepared for print. If you have a print-ready file, we will check that it meets the specifications for the size and finishing you have chosen. If not, we can discuss what adjustments are needed.

4. You approve a proof. Before we print, you will see a proof showing how the card will look. This is your chance to check the layout, the text, the colors, and the placement of any mailing elements.

5. We print and prepare your order. Once approved, we produce the postcards and have them ready for pickup at our shop in Black Mountain.

What Affects Cost and Timeline

Postcard pricing depends on several factors. We do not publish fixed prices because every project is different, but these are the considerations that matter:

• Size — Larger postcards use more material and may affect postage rates if mailed.

• Paper stock — Heavier or specialty stocks cost more than standard cardstock.

• Coating and finish — Glossy, matte, or specialty finishes add cost.

• Quantity — Per-card cost generally decreases with larger quantities.

• Artwork readiness — A print-ready file moves through production faster than one that needs adjustment.

• Mailing services — If you need addressing, list processing, or postage handled, that adds cost and time. Confirm with us whether mailing services are available.

When you request a quote, we will give you a clear breakdown based on your specific project and timeline.

What to Bring When You Request a Quote

Having a few details ready helps us give you an accurate quote and a realistic timeline.

• The postcard’s purpose and whether it will be mailed or handed out

• Your design file (PDF, AI, EPS, or a high-resolution image) if you have one

• Your logo and any text you want included

• The quantity you need

• Any size or paper preferences if you have them

• Your deadline or mailing date

If you are unsure about size, paper, or mailing requirements, that is fine. We can help you work through the options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common postcard size for mailing?
The 4″ x 6″ size is the standard for direct mail and typically mails at the lowest postcard rate. Larger sizes like 5″ x 7″ and 6″ x 9″ are also common, but they may mail at letter rates or require different handling . Tell us if you are mailing the cards so we can help you choose a size that fits your budget.

Can you mail the postcards for me?
Mailing services depend on what the shop offers. We can print the postcards, but addressing, list processing, and postage are separate services. Ask when you request a quote whether mailing assistance is available.

What file format should I send for postcard printing?
A print-ready PDF is ideal. AI and EPS files also work well. If you only have a JPEG or PNG, the image may need to be high resolution enough to print clearly at the card size.

Can I print on both sides of the postcard?
Yes. Postcards for mailing must be printed on both sides, because the back needs space for the address and postage. Handout postcards can be single-sided or double-sided depending on your preference.

What is bleed, and do I need it for postcards?
Bleed is the extra image area that extends beyond the final trim size. If your design goes to the edge of the card, you need bleed so the color does not stop short when the card is cut. We can tell you the exact specifications to use when you request a quote.

How long does postcard printing take?
Turnaround time depends on the quantity, the paper and finish you choose, and our current production schedule. When you request a quote, we can give you a realistic timeline based on your project and deadline.

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