Design and print your business stationery

The stationery you use says a lot about your business. It's an important part of building and projecting your image. High-quality stationery that displays attention to detail reflects well on your business. Cheap-looking stationery with no real design values detracts from your image and you may even lose customers.

Make sure that the business image you present is consistent. The different items of stationery you use should match each other, and your stationery should also match your signage, website and other marketing material. Your image should communicate your unique brand. See branding for your business. 

Develop your business image

You should think about the following factors when designing your stationery - each will make an impression on your customers and other contacts:

• specific typeface and font
• your logo and letterhead design
• a particular colour or palette of colours
• the text to be included - such as your address, phone number and any business slogan
• paper stock - heavier paper can create a higher quality image, but it's more expensive

The right business name is crucial to conveying the right impression to customers and potential customers. Read more about choosing the right name for your business.

Design in-house or outsource

Small businesses that need low volumes of simple, text-only stationery may be able to design and print in-house to help you save on costs.

However, if you need a logo, and if image and design are important to your business, then it's worthwhile using a professional designer. They can create a brand identity and apply it across the stationery you use. The designer can also advise you on print options and sourcing an appropriate printer.

Read more about how to choose and work with a designer.