Business cards remain relevant even in this digital era, proving to be a timeless tool for sharing your contact information with others.
While hiring a designer can be expensive, there’s a cost-effective solution. You can create your own business cards using Google Docs, even if you’re not familiar with design software like Photoshop or InDesign.
Google Docs is a free, user-friendly tool with various visiting card templates, making it easy to create professional visiting cards without the need for complex image editors. You don’t have to spend money or time learning design software to make impressive visiting cards.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to create your own free business cards using Google Docs, and we’ll also provide some helpful tips.
How to create business cards in google docs?
Designing a business card in Google workspace docs is straightforward, especially if you use a template. This method is ideal if you have minimal design experience. Follow these simple step by step procedure to create a business card using a Google Docs template:
Setting up your document in Google Docs
To start creating business cards in Google Docs, follow these steps:
- Open Google Docs: Begin by opening a new document in Google Docs.
- Adjust the page size: Set the page size to 3.5 inches by 2 inches to match standard business card dimensions. Go to file > page setup to adjust this.
- Set margins and orientation: Modify the margins and page orientation under file > page setup to fit your design preferences.
Choose a template
While Google Docs allows custom templates, this feature is limited to Business Standard, Business Plus, educational, and non-profit accounts.
To use a template, click “Template Gallery” and either select from existing options or upload your own by choosing “Submit template.” You can also design your card from scratch using shapes and text boxes if you prefer.
Adding and formatting text
- Double-click the text box or highlight the text to edit.
- Enter your name, job title, company name, and contact details.
- Drag the text boxes to position them as desired on your card.
- Adjust font styles, sizes, and colors to align with your brand’s identity.

Inserting Images and logos
- Click on “Insert” in the menu, then select “Image.”
- Upload your company logo or relevant images from your computer or Google Drive.
- Resize and reposition the images to fit your card layout.
Customizing colors and fonts
- Use the “Custom” option in the color palette to select colors that match your brand’s scheme.
- Experiment with different fonts and sizes to ensure readability and professionalism.
Related: Best colors for business cards
Arranging and aligning elements
- Use the alignment tools to position text and images left, center, right, or justify as needed.
- Ensure that all elements are aligned neatly for a polished and cohesive appearance.
Save and export
- Once your design is complete, go to the “File” menu and select “Print” to print using high-quality paper and a good printer.
- Alternatively, save the file as a PDF and use a printing service like Print To Brand for quality printing and delivery.
How to design a business card on Google Docs using Google Drawings?
There is another way to create free business cards using Google tools and they are Google Drawings and Google Slides. Google Drawings is easy for simple designs, while Google Slides offers extra features like colorful themes and add-ons for more advanced options.
Setting up your business card in Google Drawings
- Log in to Google Drive and select “New” → “More” → “Google Drawings.”
- Set the page size to standard business card dimensions (8.9 x 5.1 cm or a 1.75 ratio), noting that sizes may vary by region.
- Go to “File” → “Page setup” → “Custom,” enter the size in centimeters, and click “Apply” to adjust the page.

Choose your background color
- The canvas in Google Drawings starts out transparent. Right-click on it to pick a background color.
- You can choose from a solid color, gradient, or even an image. For printing, a solid color is generally more efficient.
- To save on ink, avoid using colors that require a lot of coverage, especially if you’re not using a high-capacity printer.

Allow rulers and guides
- Google Drawings offers tools like guides and rulers to help you position elements accurately on your business card.
- To improve precision, turn on “Snap to Grid” and “Snap to Guides” for better alignment.
- Access these options by going to “View” → “Snap To” and selecting “Grids” or “Guides.”
Customizing your business card design
- Now that your canvas is set, you can start adding your personal touch. Utilize shapes, text boxes, and images to craft your business card.
- Simply drag and position these elements where you want them. For precise adjustments, hold down the Shift key and use the arrow keys to move items incrementally.
- Enhance your design with various graphics options available in Google Drawings, like lines and shapes.
- To access more formatting choices, right-click on any element and select “Format Options” from the menu.

Best practices for printing
- Choose quality paper: Use high-quality business card stock for a professional feel and durability.
- Check printer settings: Ensure your printer is set to the correct paper size and quality settings for optimal results.
- Print a test copy: Always print a test version on plain paper to check alignment and colors before using final cardstock.
- Consider professional printing: For the best results, consider using a professional printing service, especially for high-volume needs.
How to print a visiting card in Google Docs?
Once you’ve completed both sides of your visiting card, you’re ready to print. Download your design as a PDF, JPEG, or vector image from the “File” → “Download” menu.
Alternatively, you can send the design directly to your printer. Ensure your printer is set up for double-sided printing if needed, and test the design on regular paper before using higher-quality card stock.
Effective tips for creating a business card using Google Docs:
Here are few tips to design a professional looking business cards:
- Use clear and sharp images: Choose high-resolution images to make sure your logo and other design elements are crisp and legible.
- Embrace simplicity: A clean and straightforward design helps highlight essential information. Avoid clutter by minimizing extra elements and maintaining ample white space.
- Select the right template: Choose a template that aligns with your brand’s style. If your business name is lengthy, consider a two-sided layout to ensure all details are displayed clearly.
Conclusion
Business cards are still a powerful way to network and leave a lasting impression, even in our digital age. Thankfully, creating your own professional business cards is simpler and more affordable than ever.
With Google Docs, you can design and print your cards without needing advanced graphic design skills or expensive software.
By using Google drive documents’ templates or creating custom designs in Google Drawings, you can craft a card that looks polished and reflects your personal or business brand.
Answering your questions
You can create business cards by using templates or designing your own in Google Drawings. Simply search for "business card templates in Google Docs" to find editable options. You can also use Google Drive to store and share your designs.
Yes, free templates are available. Search for "free business card templates Google Docs" to find customizable options that help you create professional visiting cards easily.
Absolutely. Design each side separately using Google Slides or Google Drawings to make a two-sided business card. This way, you can include different information on the front and back.
You can use Google drive docs, Google Slides, or Google Drawings to design your business cards. Choose a template or create a layout from scratch, then personalize it with your text, colors, and images.