How To Make Playing Cards #3: Specifications To Print Playing Cards

The third step in creating your own custom playing cards is to print them. This is the most technical and practical part of the process, as you get to choose the best printing options and services for your deck.

 

In this section, we will provide you with comprehensive information about ACELION's custom playing card printing services, also available at Printing Guide. This includes details about card sizes, stocks, and finishes, as well as various customization options and helpful resources.

 

How To Make Playing Cards?

 

1. Choose Card Sizes & Stocks

 

Choose the perfect size for your deck – standard poker size, mini cards for portability, or even jumbo cards for visual impact. ACELION offers a variety of card stocks, from classic linen to premium plastic, each impacting the feel and durability of your deck.

 

Card Size

 

 

 

The card size is the measurement of your cards, such as the length and width. It affects the portability and usability of your cards, as well as the amount of space you have for your design. You can choose from the following card sizes:

 

- Poker Size: This is the standard and most common card size, measuring 2.5 x 3.5 inches (63 x 88 mm). It is ideal for most card games and purposes, as it is easy to handle and shuffle, and it has enough room for your design.

 

- Bridge Size: This is a slightly smaller card size, measuring 2.25 x 3.5 inches (57 x 88 mm). It is ideal for card games that require a lot of cards, such as bridge or rummy, as it is easier to hold and deal, and it saves some space for your design.

 

- Tarot Size: This is a standard tarot card size, measuring 2.75 x 4.75 inches (70 x 120 mm). It is ideal for 78 card deck tarot, which is suitable for reading.

 

- Oracle Size: This is a standard tarot card size, measuring 3.48 x 4.98 inches (88 x 126 mm). It is ideal for card decks that require more visual detail, such as oracle or large card game, as it has more room for your design, and it creates a more impressive look.

 

For more custom sizes, please see our Design & Buy.

 

Card Stock

 

 

 

The card stock is the material and thickness of your cards, such as the paper type and weight. It affects the strength and flexibility of your cards, as well as the print quality and feel. You can choose from the following card stocks that mostly used:

 

- 300gsm Smooth Blue Core: This is a smooth and glossy card stock, weighing 300 grams per square meter. It is ideal for promotional card games that require a lot of shuffling and handling, such as poker or blackjack, as it is durable and slick, and it has a good print quality and feel.

 

- 350gsm Linen Art Paper: This is a textured and matte card stock, weighing 350 grams per square meter. It is ideal for card games that require a lot of detail and elegance, such as tarot or Jumbo, as it is sturdy and refined, and it has a high print quality and feel.

 

- 330gsm Linen Black Core: This is the best and opaque card stock, weighing 330 grams per square meter. It is ideal for card games that require a lot of quality and security, such as magic or casino, as it is robust and discreet, and it has a premium print quality and feel.

 

2. Choose Card Finishes

 

 

 

The card finish is the coating and treatment of your cards, such as the varnish or lamination. It affects the protection and enhancement of your cards, as well as the appearance and feel. You can choose from the following card finishes that mostly used:

 

- Glossy: This is a shiny and smooth card finish, that creates a bright and vivid appearance and feel. It is ideal for card games that require a lot of color and contrast, such as fantasy or comic, as it enhances the visual impact and appeal of your cards.

 

- Matte: This is a dull and rough card finish, that creates a soft and subtle appearance and feel. It is ideal for card games that require a lot of detail and elegance, such as art or history, as it enhances the visual depth and sophistication of your cards.

 

- UV: This is a special and protective card finish, that creates a durable and resistant appearance and feel. It is ideal for card games that require a lot of quality and security, such as magic or casino, as it enhances the visual clarity and longevity of your cards.

 

- Special finishes: There are many options for special decorations, such as embossing and debossing add texture and depth to your cards, while pearlescent finishes create a magical sheen. Also, you can experiment with holographic foils or metallic inks for an extra touch of luxury.

 

3. Design Templates & Resources

 

 

Don't start from scratch! ACELION provides free, downloadable design templates for various card sizes and layouts. These templates ensure compatibility with their printing process, saving you time and frustration.

 

Just find the card size you want to customize, press the "Start Your Design Online" button to start your design easily! We have also prepared a wealth of free commercial materials for you to use. Check out the Design Guide to learn more.

 

4. Ordering & Turnaround

 

Ordering your deck on ACELION is a breeze. Simply upload your design files, choose your desired options, and watch your creation come to life. ACELION offers competitive pricing and transparent turnaround times, so you can hold your masterpiece in your hands sooner than you think.

 

Order Process:

 

- Step 1: After designing, click on the "Submit" button and proceed to the payment page, where you can choose your preferred payment method, such as PayPal, credit card, or bank transfer. You can also apply any coupon codes or discounts that you have.

 

Step 2: After your order passes our review, it will enter the production stage. You will receive an email confirmation with your order number and details.

 

- Step 3: When your order is completed and shipped, you will receive an email again containing your tracking number and related information.

 

Turnaround Time and Shipping:

 

- Production Time: This is the time that it takes for ACELION to print and pack your order, after you have confirmed your proof and order. It usually takes 7-14 business days, depending on the complexity and quantity of your order, as well as the workload and schedule of ACELION.

 

- Shipping Time: This is the time that it takes for your order to be shipped and delivered, after it has been dispatched by ACELION. It varies depending on your location and chosen shipping method, such as standard, express, or priority. It usually takes 7-14 business days for standard shipping, 3-7 business days for express shipping, and 1-3 business days for priority shipping.

 

- Shipping Cost: This is the fee that you pay for your order to be shipped and delivered, based on your location and chosen shipping method. It includes the cost of postage, packaging, and handling. It varies depending on your location and chosen shipping method, such as standard, express, or priority.

 

Congratulations, you have successfully completed this guide on how to design and print your own custom playing cards. You have learned how to choose a theme and style, tell a story and inject your voice, design individual card elements, select the best printing options and services, and order your cards.

 

You have also seen some examples of successful themed decks, and used some design templates and helpful resources. Hope you can create a stunning and professional-looking deck of cards that reflects your vision and personality.