The Passion of the Card Leadlight Series

Designing Business Cards with a Stained Glass Touch

Rebecca Burt, the creative mind behind this project, was inspired by her father, an influential figure in her life who was one of the last individuals in New Zealand to complete an apprenticeship for making stained glass windows. The Passion of the Card Leadlight Series serves as a tribute to her father's memory and his craftsmanship.

What sets these business cards apart is the meticulous process involved in their creation. Each card is silk screen printed on a clear plastic stock, with each color dried one at a time. This hands-on approach, akin to the craftsmanship required for stained glass windows, ensures that every card is virtually handmade.

The design incorporates a technique called Opaque Barrier, where clear is treated as a color to create a myriad of effects. The result is a stunning interplay of transparent and opaque colors that come to life when the cards are held up to a light source, much like the vibrant hues of a stained glass window.

To complete the design, a pearlescent seal and a UV overgloss are added, enhancing the visual appeal and durability of the cards. The final product is not only visually striking but also long-lasting, surpassing the wear and tear of traditional paper cards.

Rebecca Burt's meticulous attention to detail extends to the technical aspects of the design as well. The clear effects are carefully designed into the PVC plastic, unlocking the full potential of the clear base stock. The artwork is formatted using a unique and highly-skilled process to ensure accurate registering of colors, positioning, and the sequence of ink layers.

Despite the challenges involved in the production process, the end result is a testament to the designer's dedication and creativity. The Passion of the Card Leadlight Series showcases the beauty and versatility of plastic business cards, elevating them to a work of art.

Designed and printed in Auckland, New Zealand, this project took six weeks from design to production completion. The images captured by photographer Aaron Lang beautifully showcase the intricate details and vibrant colors of the cards, further highlighting their unique qualities.

The Passion of the Card Leadlight Series has received recognition for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Graphics, Illustration, and Visual Communication Design category in 2020. This prestigious accolade acknowledges designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and technical excellence, contributing to improvements in quality of life.

Rebecca Burt's innovative approach to business card design in The Passion of the Card Leadlight Series not only showcases her passion for the craft but also provides a unique and memorable way for individuals to make a lasting impression.