Printers are using more digital technology to produce high-quality, short-run prints at a fraction of the cost of traditional offset printing. They have been able to
- automate the processes,
- increase speed,
- improve image quality and
- simplify press operation.
As a result, when I ordered new business cards recently, they cost less than 1/2 the price they cost five years ago.
Business card printing
Consider using onlineprinthouse.com for cards:
Full color on both sides (might as well put something on the back!), with aqueous coating on both sides as well
- 2,500 business cards - $75, plus $17 shipping
I suggest you order free samples to evaluate quality for yourself and see the type of printing available.
Envelope printing
I've found the best prices and great quality at actionenvelope.com:
No. 10 envelopes with 2-color printing on the front
- 1,000 envelopes - $120, plus shipping
(For $39 more you can get peel-n-seal, which I prefer)
You can get the best prices by ordering envelopes and business cards, (and letterhead) from different companies--and I've never had a problem with the colors not matching.