Stationery
How to buy printed stationery and get the proof right first
Print pricing is quantity-driven and non-refundable once approved, so the two things that decide value are the per-finished-piece cost and how carefully you check the proof.
What to look for
Compare per finished piece, delivered
Include envelopes, printed return addresses, trimming, rush fees and shipping. A $0.95 card with $0.40 of add-ons loses to a $1.15 all-in card.
Know your quantity break
Unit cost drops sharply at 50, 100 and 250. Ordering 10% extra is almost always cheaper than a reorder, and you will need spares.
Pick paper weight for the job
110–120 lb cover for invitations, 80 lb text for programs and folded orders of service, 100 lb gloss for photo cards. Thin stock is the most common regret.
Match print method to budget
Digital is cheapest and fine for most work; letterpress and foil add $1–$3 per piece and days of turnaround. Thermography is a mid-price alternative to engraving.
Always pay for or request a proof
Check names, dates, times, spelling of surnames and bleed/trim. Approved proofs end your recourse — retailers will not reprint your typo for free.
Traps that inflate the total
- Templates that reflow text when you change quantity or paper.
- Envelope liners and addressing priced as separate SKUs.
- "Free shipping" on a 7–10 business day service you can't actually use.
- Sale prices that apply only to the base card, not the size you configured.
What you should expect to pay
Typical ranges: 100 flat invitations $70–$180, 100 folded programs $90–$220, 250 business cards $20–$60, 100 thank-you notes $50–$120, foil or letterpress upgrade +$1–$3 per piece.
Now compare the actual prices
Every offer is ranked by landed cost — price plus shipping — so the cheapest badge is honest.
Open the Stationery comparison