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sprouts1115 wrote:...For a long time, only the AoS was embellished. More and more I'm seeing all 4 Aces customized...

Really?

http://www.a.trionfi.eu/WWPCM/decks06/d04640/d04640.htm
http://www.a.trionfi.eu/WWPCM/decks09/d07232/d07232.htm
http://www.a.trionfi.eu/WWPCM/decks08/d06878/d06878.htm
http://www.a.trionfi.eu/WWPCM/decks05/d02767/d02767.htm
http://www.a.trionfi.eu/WWPCM/decks06/d04745/d04745.htm
http://www.a.trionfi.eu/WWPCM/decks06/d04864/d04864.htm
http://www.a.trionfi.eu/WWPCM/decks02/d00321/d00321.htm
http://www.a.trionfi.eu/WWPCM/decks02/d00651/d00651.htm
http://www.a.trionfi.eu/WWPCM/decks02/d00639/d00639.htm
http://www.a.trionfi.eu/WWPCM/decks02/d00859/d00859.htm
http://www.a.trionfi.eu/WWPCM/decks07/d05182/d05182.htm
http://www.a.trionfi.eu/WWPCM/decks02/d00409/d00409.htm
http://www.a.trionfi.eu/WWPCM/decks03/d01233/d01233.htm
http://www.a.trionfi.eu/WWPCM/decks08/d06140/d06140.htm
http://www.a.trionfi.eu/WWPCM/decks03/d01425/d01425.htm
http://www.a.trionfi.eu/WWPCM/decks07/d05388/d05388.htm
http://www.a.trionfi.eu/WWPCM/decks04/d03388/d03388.htm
http://www.a.trionfi.eu/WWPCM/decks03/d01771/d01771.htm

etc. and etc. - check companies, countries, years. Embellished aces are more natural standard for really custom (collection, collectable, souvenir - all terms were invented years and years ago) playing cards. Simple aces are for traditional playing cards which should be an instrument (not luxury) for appropriate game. Thus, they shouldn't divert players from their game -> minimal embellishments + maximum simplicity and highest possible functionality. A custom ace in such decks (not necessarily the Ace of Spades) is a result of first marketing ideas (branding) and tax stamps on aces (as you have underlined - a lot of free space -> comfortable to stamp).

Ace of Spades embellishments is strictly from USPCC and other US makers. Typical Euro decks had three jokers, elaborate aces and sometimes ID on the Jack of Clubs, not sure why. Many olderGerman decks are that way.

Hey there! We finally joined this forum and though we're already in touch with some of the members, it's great to read all the opinions and to have your support We should have joined and interacted with you sooner but better late than never. Btw I'm the designer in Bona fide Playing Cards so I appreciate any kind of feedback on the artwork I'll be sharing here the updates with new cards

Just a reminder, only 15 days left so I invite you to check it out on Kickstarter if you haven't yet https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ca ... ying-cards" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;"
I'd like to share with you some of the cards we have so far (you can check out all the artwork in better quality on Kickstarter and our social profiles). Courts of Spades and jokers coming soon

I'd like to comment on why we re-launched with two decks from the start. After we failed to reach the goal with our previous attempt we asked our backers and followers for feedback and there were many and very different opinions. In general, regarding the design, some didn't like that it was too colorful and wanted a simpler look, while others liked it the way it was. The turquoise edition had positive feedback but people didn't like the fact that there was a stretch goal (taking into account we're new to this and that it was hard to meet that goal). That's why we decided to re-launch it this way; There's NOUVEAU for those who like the design but prefer a simpler look and there's Turquoise for those who like a more colorful style.

Welcome to UC, Karin! Awesome decks, let's get them funded!

I added you to the Deck Artist group.

Mike Ratledge wrote:Welcome to UC, Karin! Awesome decks, let's get them funded!

I added you to the Deck Artist group.

Thank you Mike!

I like the original tuck and it's bright cards but I like just the turquoise deck's aces....

Bikefanatic wrote:I like the original tuck and it's bright cards but I like just the turquoise deck's aces....

Thanks Bikefanatic

Btw, I have some doubts regarding the design of the jokers. The original design inlcudes bicycles (if you've been following our previous project then you probably remember that it was a Bicycle deck). It would be either to keep this design or change it a little, removing the bicycles. I'd rather keep the original design but I'm not sure if it will fit in this deck as it's not Bicycle anymore. It would be great to have your opinion on this (I'm attaching sketches)

BfPC- Your Jokers are fine. The joker is a funny card. You can do anything you want with it. Usually, there is red and an black joker. I guess so you can substitute the card quickly if you lose or damage a card. Some games use the jokers and need a high and low Joker when playing a game. The red joker is more dominate.

I like both jokers.

sprouts1115 wrote:BfPC- Your Jokers are fine. The joker is a funny card. You can do anything you want with it. Usually, there is red and an black joker. I guess so you can substitute the card quickly if you lose or damage a card. Some games use the jokers and need a high and low Joker when playing a game. The red joker is more dominate.

Collector wrote:I like both jokers.

Thank you sprouts1115 and Collector

Hey guys!
Just a reminder, only 8 days left to get your limited edition deck, check it out here https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ca ... ying-cards" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Since my wife and I both really like these cards, I have backed them, and I have been trying to promote them; but liking them as much as we do makes it hard for me to understand why they are having a hard time getting support from a larger number of collectors.

Can some of you who are not buying these tell me what it is that is keeping you away from them?

I'm just curious, because I seem to quite often be at odds with the majority around here.

WillHart CthulhuWho1 wrote:Since my wife and I both really like these cards, and I have backed them, plus I have been trying to promote them; but liking them as much as we do makes it hard for me to understand why they are having a hard time getting support from a larger number of collectors.

Can some of you who are not buying these tell me what it is that is keeping you away from them?

I'm just curious, because I see to quite often be at odds with the majority around here.

Thank you again Will Hart for the support and interest you've shown along the way! And you're right about that, I'd love to have your opinions guys, to know what are we doing wrong and where could we improve the deck or the campaign. I think that there's too much work behind it to just give up. Obviously we're missing something and I'd seriously appreciate your feedback so we can improve in every way we can

You have a very niche theme. It's lovely, intricate artwork but I find it a little stuffy. Not the type of deck I'd buy multiples of because I don't see myself breaking these out at parties. Showing them off? Absolutely, but not playing with them to be honest.

Eoghann wrote:You have a very niche theme. It's lovely, intricate artwork but I find it a little stuffy. Not the type of deck I'd buy multiples of because I don't see myself breaking these out at parties. Showing them off? Absolutely, but not playing with them to be honest.

Thank you Eoghann Yeah, it's not the first time we've been told that. I think that it's the theme we chose. It turned out to be mainly a collectionists' deck

You can also take the easy road. Here's how!:

People are suckers for limited stuff. Can be actual limited or artificial limited. Start putting numbered seals and make super limited tuck swaps and watch those pledges fly! Woooosh!

Just look at Buskers.
First project: Two regular decks Sol/Luna = FAIL
Second project: One regular Sol deck + "ONLY 1000 EVER PRINTED EVERRRRRR" renamed Exclusive Luna deck = SUCCESS

If artwork alone isn't cutting it, it's a fantastic way of getting the backers to pledge for more than they need to!
Just tack on a super limited deck to a brick of standards and you're set!

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In all seriousness: if you're going to make some kind of limited edition, don't let it be the driving force behind the success of your projects. Unless it's an actual limited release like Venexiana Gold and ICONS. But I'm just splitting hairs now.

Unfortunately i think this deck just isn`t Art Nouveau enough
while there are some very small elements of Art nouveau ,i personally don`t think there is enough to justify the name Nouveau.

Eoghann wrote:You can also take the easy road. Here's how!:

People are suckers for limited stuff. Can be actual limited or artificial limited. Start putting numbered seals and make super limited tuck swaps and watch those pledges fly! Woooosh!

Just look at Buskers.
First project: Two regular decks Sol/Luna = FAIL
Second project: One regular Sol deck + "ONLY 1000 EVER PRINTED EVERRRRRR" renamed Exclusive Luna deck = SUCCESS

If artwork alone isn't cutting it, it's a fantastic way of getting the backers to pledge for more than they need to!
Just tack on a super limited deck to a brick of standards and you're set!

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In all seriousness: if you're going to make some kind of limited edition, don't let it be the driving force behind the success of your projects. Unless it's an actual limited release like Venexiana Gold and ICONS. But I'm just splitting hairs now.

Thank you Eoghann, those are some useful advices Will Hart and other members already commented on the limited issue. We'll think about what you said regarding the numbered seals and super limited tuck swaps, I think it's a good option in our situation

Jock1971 wrote:Unfortunately i think this deck just isn`t Art Nouveau enough
while there are some very small elements of Art nouveau ,i personally don`t think there is enough to justify the name Nouveau.

I honestly don't know what to say about that Jock1971; I tried to keep the essence of Art Nouveau when designing the cards but probably missed part of it along the way

I was being sarcastic about actually taking that path.
But the sad truth is that the formula works however gross it may be.

Eoghann wrote:I was being sarcastic about actually taking that path.
But the sad truth is that the formula works however gross it may be.

lol yeah I got the sarcastic side, I was talking about the general idea of limited editions and very limited decks, it seems to be a real issue and a hype

BfPC wrote:

Eoghann wrote:I was being sarcastic about actually taking that path.
But the sad truth is that the formula works however gross it may be.

lol yeah I got the sarcastic side, I was talking about the general idea of limited editions and very limited decks, it seems to be a real issue and a hype

This might be a backwards step in trying to get the deck funded but I personally loved the previous version's Bicycle-branded deck. I know that USPCC (especially Bicycle-branded decks) is more expensive than Expert's but maybe there's some allure to the fan boys like me? Who would jump on in a heartbeat simply by seeing the all-familiar logo. Don't get me wrong- I will continue to pledge for this deck no matter who prints it or how many campaigns it takes! Just dropping my two cents..

vasta41 wrote:

BfPC wrote:

Eoghann wrote:I was being sarcastic about actually taking that path.
But the sad truth is that the formula works however gross it may be.

lol yeah I got the sarcastic side, I was talking about the general idea of limited editions and very limited decks, it seems to be a real issue and a hype

This might be a backwards step in trying to get the deck funded but I personally loved the previous version's Bicycle-branded deck. I know that USPCC (especially Bicycle-branded decks) is more expensive than Expert's but maybe there's some allure to the fan boys like me? Who would jump on in a heartbeat simply by seeing the all-familiar logo. Don't get me wrong- I will continue to pledge for this deck no matter who prints it or how many campaigns it takes! Just dropping my two cents..

Thanks vasta41 We don't know yet what to do, we're thinking about different options. Not sure what are the right steps to take

I'll chime in here, as I'm also someone who might normally pledge for this deck but am not doing so.

So, why might I "normally" back this kind of deck? I find the pattern on the back appealing, and I like customized courts.

But, why am I not? Because there's nothing particularly special about the customized courts. Nothing pops out at me. The colors are washed out and dull. The theme here doesn't resonate for me.

I tend to favor either very strong themes or designs. Decks that have had themes that have resonated with me include Chris Ovdyenko's "Calaveras" (not colorful, but not washed out, either!), Steve Minty's "Muertos", or the Edgy Brothers' "Dia De Los Muertos" decks -- while I have no direct experience or attachment to the Day of the Dead celebrations, as such, I find all three decks to be very involving interpretations of the Day of the Dead theme. RJ Tomlinson's "Unrest" series of decks also maintained consistent themes of historical conflicts (I *was* a history major in college) that were presented in era-appropriate designs. I've never been to Venice, but Lotrek's passion for his subject matter produced artwork that sang of the mysteries and excitement of "Venexiana." Jackson Robinson's "Federal 52" series combined both strong thematic elements (money) with strong design elements (money.) And there's Uusi, who hit it out of the proverbial ballpark when it comes to fantastic design in their Royal Optik decks. Muted colors *can* work. Rick Davidson and Paul Carpenter have used muted colors to great effect in their Origins and Signature decks, respectively.

While the Nouveau decks are thematically *consistent*, they are not thematically *strong*. The designs, while being decent, do not grab me. There's nothing particularly wrong with these decks, per se, but there's not enough going on to really jump out at me as being particularly right, either. I like the design (in general) of the backs, but what if they used color more effectively (as in Randy Butterfield's Draconian decks, or Johnny PowPow's Occults)? The illustrated courts are fine, but what if there were more passion or mystery in the facial expressions? What if the colors made bolder statements? If such ideas are counter to the style of what you were going for (I'm not familiar with the "nouveau" style in the least, so I have no sense of what it's supposed to be), then perhaps this is just a case of this not being a theme that resonates with me. (I don't tend to find "cthulu" or pirate decks particularly interesting, even though those have been very popular themes; not all themes will appeal to all collectors.)

Just some thoughts. I nonetheless wish you success with your future projects! You obviously have some talent; now you just need to zero in on your target.

If you kept the original red tuck and red backs but have the turquoise deck's cards as bright at the original deck, that would be the perfect deck imo.

rousselle wrote:I'll chime in here, as I'm also someone who might normally pledge for this deck but am not doing so.

So, why might I "normally" back this kind of deck? I find the pattern on the back appealing, and I like customized courts.

But, why am I not? Because there's nothing particularly special about the customized courts. Nothing pops out at me. The colors are washed out and dull. The theme here doesn't resonate for me.

I tend to favor either very strong themes or designs. Decks that have had themes that have resonated with me include Chris Ovdyenko's "Calaveras" (not colorful, but not washed out, either!), Steve Minty's "Muertos", or the Edgy Brothers' "Dia De Los Muertos" decks -- while I have no direct experience or attachment to the Day of the Dead celebrations, as such, I find all three decks to be very involving interpretations of the Day of the Dead theme. RJ Tomlinson's "Unrest" series of decks also maintained consistent themes of historical conflicts (I *was* a history major in college) that were presented in era-appropriate designs. I've never been to Venice, but Lotrek's passion for his subject matter produced artwork that sang of the mysteries and excitement of "Venexiana." Jackson Robinson's "Federal 52" series combined both strong thematic elements (money) with strong design elements (money.) And there's Uusi, who hit it out of the proverbial ballpark when it comes to fantastic design in their Royal Optik decks. Muted colors *can* work. Rick Davidson and Paul Carpenter have used muted colors to great effect in their Origins and Signature decks, respectively.

While the Nouveau decks are thematically *consistent*, they are not thematically *strong*. The designs, while being decent, do not grab me. There's nothing particularly wrong with these decks, per se, but there's not enough going on to really jump out at me as being particularly right, either. I like the design (in general) of the backs, but what if they used color more effectively (as in Randy Butterfield's Draconian decks, or Johnny PowPow's Occults)? The illustrated courts are fine, but what if there were more passion or mystery in the facial expressions? What if the colors made bolder statements? If such ideas are counter to the style of what you were going for (I'm not familiar with the "nouveau" style in the least, so I have no sense of what it's supposed to be), then perhaps this is just a case of this not being a theme that resonates with me. (I don't tend to find "cthulu" or pirate decks particularly interesting, even though those have been very popular themes; not all themes will appeal to all collectors.)

Just some thoughts. I nonetheless wish you success with your future projects! You obviously have some talent; now you just need to zero in on your target.

Thank you rousselle for your opinion I think that here taste comes into play, mainly because of the style (aside from the quality of the design, of course). Though I personally like this style and the theme we picked for this deck, I'm also aware that probably it wasn't the best choice to start. We should have decided on a theme with a bigger fanbase among magicians, cardists and collectors (or in general). As for the style and colors, though I probably didn't manage to perfectly transmit the Art Nouveau essence, it's true that it's characterized by the use of muted colors.
I don't think we can compare our deck with the ones you mentioned because the styles are just way too different, but as I said before, it's true that this theme wasn't the best choice, at least for our first deck.
Btw, I really like Edgy Brothers' Dia de los muertos decks. In fact all the decks you mentioned are hands down amazing. I can't say anything about your opinion on them because you're absolutely right

So, what if we all give Kariné a few suggestions and see if we can't get a deck funded? One deck, maybe a second as a stretch goal for a first time artist is the only realistic way to go. If that were what this campaign had from the start, it would have easily funded.

Nobody is going to make a universally liked deck right out of the gate, a first time funder just has to be more conservative in their expectations. At the risk of repeating myself (again), a first time funder either buckles down and busts their arse for 30 days in a row or endures the pain until (if) they cancel.

This deck should have funded, especially considering some of the junk we have seen that does just because they had thousands of fan boys who would buy a poop on the premise that you can pick up the clean end. This is a great deck, not spectacular but surely it should have our support. Donna & I want to have a bit of Nouveau in our collection, and almost everyone we have talked to agrees.

The fact that these decks weren’t funded just kills me.

Mike Ratledge wrote:... This deck should have funded, especially considering some of the junk we have seen... This is a great deck...