For the DIY client, crop marks?

[Former_Member]

Hi, I'm new to this team, and I don't sell prints yet but I am working on that.

I have had people ask for jewelry cards, which I already make for my own creations, so I am going to try out offering digital downloads of these cards.

I was doing a little digging on Etsy to see if others are selling these types of items, and all I find are jewelry cards in full color with gaps between each card. I however like a simple, seamless, more uniform design, and use crop marks and bleeds. This should be about showing off the jewelry - not the card!

Anyway, in general, do you think that people are willing to use a ruler and blade (xacto) to cut out their cards, or do they prefer these cut-out-with-scissors designs?

Here is a super simple earring card I made for my handmade shop:


I always, always, always use crop marks to cut (uniform card shape with bleeds, less paper waste), that's why I am confused about my findings on Etsy... what are your thoughts?

Thanks for any help :)

[Former_Member]

oops i forgot the link of my (very simple) example:
https://www.etsy.com/listing/151346652/sterling-silver-triangle-drop-earrings?ref=shop_home_feat

[Former_Member]

Hi Misopolis,
I can only talk for myself I don't get on well with the blade and ruler I prefer to cut with long blade scissors but the cropping marks are always helpful. I like your cards!

[SummerWeeds]

Crop marks are always helpful. I always use a blade or a cutter to trim my prints. That nice straight edge makes a difference.

[Former_Member]

Love crop marks. I prefer a blade or cutter :)

[printsforevents]

I prefer crop marks and an x-acto knife myself, but a lot of us are art or design majors or professionals. It's my experience that most "regular" people will just use scissors.

[Former_Member]

I like crop marks myself. I use a rotary cutter to do mine but would be up for the X-acto method. That being said, I totally agree with the gal above me, most people that buy your products are not going to be the artistically-enabled type, that's why they are BUYING art from you, not making it themselves.