Single vs Double‑Sided Cards: Pros & Cons

Quick Recommendation

If you need extra space for a longer message or want a printed interior, double‑sided cards are worth the extra cost. For brief notes, simple thank‑you’s, or tight budgets, single‑side cards deliver the same premium feel with lower expense.

Printed cards come in two basic orientations: a single‑side design with a blank interior, or a double‑sided layout that prints on both front and back. Understanding the trade‑offs helps you match the card to the occasion and your budget.

In this comparison we look at cost, design flexibility, and production considerations, using real examples from Lucky Horse Press’s catalog.

Cost Considerations

Single‑side cards typically cost less because only one side requires ink, registration, and quality control. Lucky Horse Press prices its single‑side cards at $3.00 each, with a comparison price of $6.00, reflecting the savings from a blank interior. Double‑sided cards add the expense of printing a second side, which can increase the per‑card price by 30‑50% depending on ink coverage.

When budgeting for large batches, the cost difference compounds. If the message fits comfortably on one side, the single‑side option stretches your dollars further while still delivering a premium letterpress feel.

• Calculate total cost per card, not just per sheet, to see true savings.

Design Flexibility

A single‑side card gives you a clean canvas on the front and leaves the interior free for handwritten notes. This works well for thank‑you cards, quick birthday wishes, or any situation where a personal touch is valued. The interior remains completely blank, allowing you to add a hand‑written message, doodle, or even a small photo.

Double‑sided cards let you pre‑print a message, illustration, or pattern on the back, ensuring consistency across all copies. This is ideal for formal invitations, corporate announcements, or when you want a fully designed piece that doesn’t rely on handwriting.

• Choose single‑side for maximum personalization; choose double‑sided for uniform branding.

Production & Shipping

Because only one side is printed, single‑side cards often have a shorter turnaround time. Lucky Horse Press can press and ship these cards quickly, especially when the interior is left blank. Double‑sided cards require an additional printing pass, which may add a day or two to production.

Shipping weight is essentially the same for both options, but double‑sided cards sometimes need extra protective packaging if the printed back includes delicate foil or embossing.

• Factor in any extra lead time if you need double‑sided cards for a tight deadline.

Key Trade‑offs at a Glance

• Cost: Single‑side cards are cheaper per unit; double‑sided add ink and processing costs. Pick single‑side if budget is a priority.
• Design Space: Single‑side leaves the interior blank for personal writing; double‑sided offers a pre‑designed back. Choose double‑sided when you need a consistent message on both sides.
• Production Time: Single‑side generally prints faster; double‑sided requires an extra pass. Opt for single‑side for tighter deadlines.

Real‑World Card Examples

• Best Mom Biking Bears: Letterpress printed on a 100 lb recycled cover for a premium, tactile feel. Generous size of 4.25" × 5.5" when folded, offering ample space for your message. Blank interior lets you write a personal, customized greeting. Shows how a single‑side card can still feel luxurious while giving you full freedom to handwrite a note.
• Thank You Polka Dot Plant: Letterpress printed on a 100 lb. recycled paper cover for a tactile, high‑quality feel. Compact folded size of 4.25" × 5.5" fits standard envelopes. Blank interior provides space for a personal handwritten note. Includes a matching envelope for a polished presentation. Demonstrates the cost‑effective nature of single‑side cards that still include a matching envelope for a finished look.

Which Option Fits Your Needs?

Best For

• Short, handwritten thank‑you notes
• Budget‑friendly bulk orders
• Events where personal touches matter

Not Ideal For

• Formal invitations that need a printed message on both sides
• Corporate branding that requires consistent back‑side design
• Tight timelines where extra printing steps could cause delays

Both single‑side and double‑sided cards have their place. Use single‑side for flexibility and cost savings, and double‑sided when you need a fully designed piece. Match the format to your message, budget, and timeline for the best results.