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Artist trading cards, or ATCs, began in the tradition of hockey trading cards, with a personal, artistic twist. They can be any medium that can be worked in a suitable size. ATCs are traditionally the size of hockey, baseball, cards and other trading cards,. You can use the old paper playing cards. New playing cards are plastic and not workable and not the correct size.. They're a fun way to exchange your own one-of-a-kind artistic flair with other ATC traders you meet. You don't have to be an artist.
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QuestionWhat do I put on the reverse side?Community AnswerUsually this would include: Your name, a website/ blog or email address, A name for the collection or piece of art if it is just one card and a number (say if you have a set of five, you can put 1 of 5, 2 of 5, etc.).
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QuestionHow do I find someone to trade with?Community AnswerIf you can't find a place in your community or nearby there's always The International Card Deck Swap. Look it up - they're always welcoming new people.
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QuestionCan an artist trading card be made with rounded corners, or must they be square?ZebraZoeyDrawsCommunity AnswerATCs can be made with square or rounded corners. It's really up to you and your personal preferences.
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Tips
- Always try to exchange trading cards. It's up to you if you want to give some away without receiving any in return, but never take ATCs without permission, and try to give one anytime you receive one.Thanks
- If you find yourself with a card or cards you especially like, you could scan them before trading them, or simply keep those for yourself and make more.Thanks
- Because ATCs are small, they are an easy and fun way to try a new medium or technique.Thanks
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About This Article
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Reader Success Stories
- "I'm not new to arts and crafts, but I didn't know the purpose of artist trading cards. This article helped me to understand them. I'm on a fixed income, and going to make some to use as business cards. Hopefully these will help me to get my name and info out there." ..." more
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"I'm not new to arts and crafts, but I didn't know the purpose of artist trading cards. This article helped me to understand them. I'm on a fixed income, and going to make some to use as business cards. Hopefully these will help me to get my name and info out there."
..."
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"Although I have seen ATC cards I've never made one as I am not a painter or an Artist. But then I saw on this site that pretty much anything goes. I recently entered this division for our Fall Fair and needed some ideas in which I received. :)"
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"What a wonderful idea for unlocking 'artist's block', a bit like writers block, I suppose! This is the first time I've come across these, and find them stimulating enough to give them a go. Here is where one's imagination can fly!"
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"I think this is a terrific idea to get back into the art community. It is difficult for me to get artist supplies, because I live remotely. Something small like this is very doable and encourages me to get started."
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"Your step-by-step on how to make an Artist Trading Card was so helpful! What to do with them, their size, numbering them, etc. all made this a worthwhile article to read!"
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