UnitedCardists.com - The forum for Cardistry, Magic, Custom Decks and All Things Playing Cards.

I was wondering what is the process that you do when making custom cards?

I know this is a broad question so I shall narrow it down to some questions I would appreciate if they were answered:

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  1. How do you come up with a back design?
  2. How do you come up with the design of the court cards?
  3. How do you design the tuck boxes?
  4. What software (if any) do you use to make your cards look so professional?
  5. Regardless of whether or not a software is used, do you freestyle draw your cards or do you use some sort of template?
  6. If there is a template, what is it and where can one find it?
  7. Are there any tips that you would give to a beginner who is creating their first custom deck?

Thank you in advance.

1. You have to have some inspiration to come up with a back design. Usually, it starts from an idea or concept.
2. You have to adapt the faces and court cards with the concept of the deck. Let's say you have a concept of "Horror" deck - you have to implement some details to the faces so it will go with the concept. Or go with standard faces, that's usually the standard and it allows easy gameplay.
3. Same as above, go with something that matches the concept or the direction of the deck.
4. Adobe Illustrator (vector drawing) or Photoshop (300dpi image).
5. You should start designing your deck on the template provided by the card company that will produce the deck. You can also freestyle, scan and adapt to the template.
6. Again, ask the card company that will produce the deck. If you need, I can send you the templates from USPCC if you want. But if you go with Cartamundi or others, ask them for their templates so that you not do the design work twice.
7. Hmm.. ask yourself what do you want from a deck of cards or what are you missing at a deck that you love and start from there. Also, find out what details you like at other decks and implement that in your design or manufacturing (stock, finish, seals, etc).

Good luck!