How to print baby cards at home

A few small choices make the difference between a card that looks homemade and one that looks professional. These tips apply to every card made with our baby stats, milestone, flashcard and shower game generators.

PDF or PNG?

Use the PDF for printing. It keeps the paper size exact, so nothing is scaled. Use the PNG to share a card on your phone or in a message.

Choose the paper

• Everyday cards: 160-200 gsm matte card stock feels sturdy and hides fingerprints.
• Photo cards: a satin or silk photo paper gives richer colour, but pick a matte finish if the card will be handled a lot.
• Shower games: normal 100 gsm paper is fine and costs the least.
• Flashcards for newborns: thick card stock lasts longer. Laminating is optional.

Set the printer correctly

• Choose the same paper size as in the generator (A4, A5 or US Letter).
• In the print dialog set scaling to 100% or Actual size, not Fit to page.
• Pick the highest quality and the paper type that matches your paper.
• Print a test page on plain paper first to check the margins.

When to use the bleed option

Cards with a coloured background run to the edge of the paper. Home printers cannot print that far, so a white border appears. If you print at a print shop, tick Add 3 mm print bleed, so the colour extends past the cutting line. At home, print on a larger sheet and trim.

Cutting and finishing

• A paper trimmer gives straighter edges than scissors.
• Round the corners with a corner punch for a softer, finished look.
• Store milestone cards in a small box or a photo album sleeve.

Print shops

Most print shops accept a PDF. Tell them the paper weight and size, ask for no scaling, and request a colour proof if you need many copies.