Backgrounds
Use the following suggestions to help you select a background for a professional‐
looking card. For best results, make sure the background design does not
emphasize the location of card features, such as embedded electronics.
Consider using a white background for the card to achieve consistent
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professional results.
Consider using smaller blocks of color, patterned areas, or gradients to
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highlight printed card features such as a name, photo, or logo.
Avoid using a solid‐color background or halftone over a large area of the card.
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It can show flaws on the card (such as an uneven surface) or the location of
card features (such as a smart card chip).
Avoid halftones, especially gray, which can highlight the location of card
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features and flaws.
Image Placement
Use the following suggestions to help you locate
important images, such as a photo, logo, or bar code.
When placing images, avoid uneven areas and areas
of high wear, which can result in inconsistent print
quality.
Do not place an important image on the front of
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the card in the same area as a magnetic stripe or
other machine‐readable feature. Frequent use of a card in a reader can wear
away the image on the opposite side of the card.
Do not place an important image directly on the other side of a signature
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panel. Residue from the panel can cause printing problems on an adjacent
card. Place the image above, below, or to the side of the panel.
Do not place an important image directly on the other side of a smart card
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chip. The card might not be as flat in that area, and printing voids can occur.
26
Elements of Card Design