Certificates

Paper stock and finish for a formal certificate

A certificate has a different job to almost anything else we print: it needs to look formal and considered, often for a one-off moment such as an award, a course completion or a school achievement, rather than being handled repeatedly like a business card or menu.

That usually means a heavier, more textured paper stock than standard flyers or letterheads — a linen or laid finish is a common choice, giving a certificate a tactile quality that plain uncoated paper doesn't have. Borders, foiling or a printed seal can add to the formal feel, and these are worth deciding on before your final print run rather than after.

Personalising and proofing a batch of certificates

Because certificates are usually personalised with a recipient's name, date and specific wording, proofing matters more here than on most products — a spelling mistake on a certificate is harder to laugh off than one on a flyer. If you're ordering a batch for a course or event, send us your full list of names in good time so we can check formatting is consistent before anything is printed.

Adding a formal, official finish

A textured or watermarked stock, or a subtle printed border, can help a certificate look official and harder to casually reproduce, which matters for anything from a professional qualification to a competition prize. It's a small detail, but it's often what separates a certificate that looks considered from one that looks like it was run off on an office printer.

For a batch of certificates with different names, dates or grades, send us a clear list in a simple format, one row per recipient is easiest, so we can check formatting and spelling before anything is printed. Catching an error at proofing stage is far easier than reprinting after a course or awards evening has already happened.

If certificates are being awarded at an event, order a small number of spares beyond your exact recipient count, last-minute name changes or printing errors are far easier to handle with a spare on hand than by reprinting under time pressure.

About Certificates

Order certificates from Star Printers in Tooting, London. Pricing depends on your exact requirements — call 020 8123 6699 or contact us for a quote.

Paper-based print covers most of what a business or individual needs day to day: business cards, flyers, leaflets, letterheads, loyalty cards and certificates. The main decisions are paper weight, finish and whether the item is printed on one or both sides. Heavier stock and a matt or gloss lamination give a more premium feel, while a standard uncoated card is a practical, cost-effective choice for short-term use such as flyers and leaflets.

Best for

business stationery, promotional handouts, menus and everyday professional print.

What to confirm

Final size, paper stock, sides, quantity and whether your artwork is ready for print.

Need help with your file?

Not sure about bleed, resolution or the best material, or don't have finished artwork at all? We offer a free design service to get your file print-ready. Call 020 8123 6699 or contact us before placing the order.

Can I order for a tight deadline?

Call us with the product, artwork and deadline before travelling or arranging delivery. We will confirm the production options available for your job.

Certificate Sizes & Stock

Sizes	A4 as standard, A5 on request
Stock	Heavier premium card, 250gsm-350gsm, matt, gloss or textured
Finish	Optional gold or silver foil or border on request

Not sure what suits your job? Call 020 8123 6699 or contact us and we'll confirm before you order.

Certificates: frequently asked questions

Can you match a specific certificate template or border style?

Yes, send us your design or ask about our free design service to create one.

What paper feels most "official"?

A heavier textured or matt card, around 300gsm, is the most common choice for certificates and awards.

Can each certificate have a different name?

Yes, we can personalise each certificate with a different name or recipient detail.

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