From Networking to Novelty: 10 of the Best Ways to Repurpose Old Business Cards

Written by UPrinting    ●    Updated on October 13, 2023

In today's digital age, the humble business card might seem like a relic of the past. Yet many of us still find ourselves with stacks of them tucked away in desk drawers and office cabinets. Overordered on business cards or finally got that big promotion? Congratulations are in order either way! But what do you do with those now-outdated pieces of cardstock? Before you think about tossing them in the recycling bin, let's explore some innovative and eco-friendly ways to repurpose them and give them a second lease on life.

1. Bookmarks – Slide an old business card between the pages of your current read. Their size is ideal for marking your spot without damaging the pages. Business cards are also sturdy, making them more durable than traditional paper bookmarks. Plus, it's a handy way to keep a memorable contact close.

2. Gift Tags – Punch a hole at one end of a business card, thread some decorative ribbon, and voila! You now have a personalized gift tag. It's a great way to recycle business cards and a creative alternative to purchasing new gift tags. Plus, the writable backside is perfect for a short message.

3. Note Cards – You can use old business cards to jot down quick notes or to-do lists. It's the perfect size for brief, important reminders, and a waste-free method of keeping notes. The compact size makes them easy to store and carry.

4. Miniature Art Canvases – Use the blank backside or even the printed front for mini artistic creations. Perfect for budding artists to practice or for creating mini mementos. Their small size challenges creativity, and they can be displayed as a collection for a unique art showcase.

5. Scrapbooking – Incorporate business cards into your scrapbook layouts. They can serve as decorative elements or memory markers for milestones. It’s a novel way to remember places, events, or people, especially if the business card is from a memorable contact or trip.

6. Learning Flashcards – Use old business cards for quick study sessions. Whether it’s vocabulary words, historical dates, or math problems, the card’s compact size is perfect. Since they are sturdier than paper and can withstand repeated use, the cards are ideal for study sessions on-the-go.

7. DIY Puzzle – Paste a picture onto the blank side and then cut it into smaller, puzzle-like pieces. You can even work with larger images and use multiple cards. It’s an innovative and personalized way to challenge yourself or entertain kids.

8. Jewelry Holder – Never lose jewelry again. Place earrings through them to keep pairs together or wrap delicate necklaces around to prevent tangling. The rigidity of business cards prevents jewelry from bending out of shape, and the card size is convenient for storage.

9. Organizational Labels – Use old business cards to label bins, drawers, or folders. Write or print directly onto the card or affix a printed label. Their sturdy nature ensures they won’t easily tear or fade over time, keeping your organization system intact.

10. Gardening Markers – Stick them in the soil next to plants as markers. Write down the plant name or care instructions. Business cards are often laminated, offering some protection against moisture. They’re a perfect size to be seen but not overshadow your plants.

As we wrap up, it's evident that the potential of a business card extends far beyond its primary role as a networking tool. Whether you've climbed the corporate ladder or simply printed more than you need, your cards are a canvas waiting for transformation. With a dash of creativity and a touch of eco-consciousness, those seemingly outdated cards can find new purposes that are both functional and delightful. So, the next time you stumble upon that stash of business cards, see it not as clutter but as opportunity knocking at your door.