Playing cards are more than just a deck that enables games, they are intricately designed works of art. The material playing cards are printed on plays a key role in bringing these designs to life. As creators and designers, understanding playing card paper leads to better printing results. Follow these 5 tips when selecting and working with custom playing cards printing.

Use Card Stock Paper

Playing cards need a high quality paper stock to stand up to repeated use. Look for card stock paper, which is thicker than regular paper. Card stock runs between 67lb to over 100lb, compared to the 20lb paper used for basic printing. The higher weight means durability, so choose 80lb or higher. Brands like Neenah and French Paper Company specialize in paper for playing cards.

Card stock also comes in different finishes, from a smooth finish to a textured linen texture. Finish impacts how designs look and how the cards feel. When printing intricate designs, smooth card stock shows off the details better. Textured paper obscures fine details but has an appealing aesthetic.

Pay Attention to Paper Brightness

Paper brightness measures how white a paper is, from dull recycled paper to bright bleached paper. Brighter paper makes colors pop while duller stock mutes hues. Brighter white sets off your playing card illustrations, but isn’t necessarily better. Muted colors have vintage appeal.

When reviewing paper brightness, higher isn’t always better. A 100 brightness card stock diffuses light, losing contrast between dark colors. Brightness around 90 reflects better. Where vintage looks suit your cards, an antique matte paper with lower brightness adds charm.

Consider Paper Coatings

Coatings applied to card stock seal the paper so ink doesn’t soak in. The smooth surface accentuates details. From glossy to matte and opaque coatings, each create a different effect. Glossy coated paper has a wet ink look, while matte coatings have an elegant silky finish.

Varnished papers feel slick and slippery, which enhances handling. Pair gloss coatings with intricate designs to make the details stand out. Matte varnish mutes colors for a softer effect. Flocking powder sprinkled onto wet varnish creates a velveteen texture.

Confirm Digital Printing Compatibility

Offset lithography has traditionally printed cards, but digital printing excels for shorter runs, letting creators print as needed. Ensure any paper works with digital printers before ordering to avoid issues.

Many card stocks work with both offset and digital technology, but some specialty papers don’t run well through digital printers. Check requirements on texture, thickness, ink absorption and more. When uncertain, order a few sheets to test. It saves discovering problems after the full order arrives.

Request Paper Samples

Specifications only reveal so much about a paper stock. Contact manufacturers to request physical samples showing paper colors, textures, thickness, and appearance. Samples give a realistic idea of each paper’s look and feel.

View samples in different light conditions, especially sunlight and shade, to see how that impacts appearance. Shuffle sample cards and bend them slightly to test durability. Note which enhance your designs best and request larger samples of those to print test designs. Zero in on your perfect paper before placing a full order.

Following these simple tips when working with playing card paper streamlines the material selection process. Finding a paper stock that pairs beautifully with your designs makes printed playing cards look as incredible as your creative visions. Use samples and testing to confirm papers work with planned printing methods. This small upfront effort ensures stunning final results.