A custom scratch off card gives customers a small action to take before they see your message. For a business promotion, the best design starts with the offer and what the recipient should do next. Once those are clear, choosing the card size, scratch off area, and artwork becomes much easier.
Explore custom scratch off card packages to compare sizes and quantities as you plan.
1. Define the goal and the reveal
Decide where the card will be handed out and what you want someone to do after scratching. A grand opening card might reveal an in-store offer; a trade show card might direct visitors to a product demonstration; an employee reward card might reveal a specific perk.
- Write the hidden message: Keep prizes, codes, or instructions short enough to read at a glance.
- Set the terms: Decide when and where an offer can be redeemed, and put essential conditions where recipients can find them.
- Plan your quantities: If cards have different outcomes, decide how many of each version you need before submitting the order details.
For promotional offers, have your team review any applicable campaign terms before distribution.
2. Choose a card size for the way you will use it
A 2″ × 3.5″ card is easy to hand out, tuck into an order, or include with printed materials. A larger card gives you more room for a photograph, instructions, a QR code, or a stronger offer presentation. Compare the sizes and quantities available in the custom card packages before finalizing the artwork.
Keep the most important information visible without making someone scratch: your business name, what the promotion is, and how to take the next step. Reserve the covered area for the part that benefits from being a surprise.
3. Design around the scratch off area
Choose the scratch off area early. Its size and shape determine how much text can fit beneath it and how much clear space the surrounding artwork needs. Avoid putting essential instructions under the sticker if readers need those instructions to understand the promotion.
If you are preparing your own print files, review the artwork requirements before designing. They explain file format, bleed, safe area, and spacing around the machine-applied scratch off area. Contact us before designing if you are unsure about placement.
4. Make the next action unmistakable
After someone scratches the card, they should know exactly what to do. Add a short instruction such as “Bring this card to our store by October 31” or “Visit the URL on the back to claim your reward.” Use a readable URL or QR code when a digital action makes sense. Test a printed proof of any code or QR code before approval.
5. Choose your package and review the proof
- Select a custom card package that fits your card size and quantity.
- Provide your business name, artwork or design direction, exact hidden messages, and the number of cards needed for each variation.
- Review the digital proof carefully for spelling, offer terms, contact details, QR codes, and the placement of the scratch off area.
- Approve the proof when every detail is correct so the order can move forward.
Standard production is approximately 14 business days after all design information is received. This is an estimate, not a guaranteed delivery date; allow additional time for proof revisions and shipping. If you have an event deadline, share it before ordering so the team can discuss available options.
Examples of business scratch off campaigns
- Grand opening: Give visitors a card with a revealed offer redeemable during the opening period.
- Trade show: Pair a reveal with a product demonstration or follow-up invitation.
- Package insert: Include a card that encourages a future purchase with clear redemption terms.
- Employee recognition: Reveal a specific reward or thank-you message.
Want more ways to use the format? Read our guide to scratch off cards for business promotions and rewards.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to supply finished artwork?
Check the design options included with the custom package you select. If you plan to provide artwork, use the print-ready artwork requirements and contact our team before designing if you need help with the setup.
Can different cards reveal different messages?
Plan the messages and the number of cards for each variation when you prepare your order details. The options available depend on the package and quantity you choose.
When should I order for an event?
Start early enough for design information, proof review, estimated production, and shipping. Standard production is approximately 14 business days after all design information is received, and that estimate is not a delivery guarantee.
Ready to plan your card?
Compare custom scratch off card packages, then gather your offer, artwork direction, and desired quantities. Our team can help you work through the details before the proof is finalized.
Make your idea happen
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