Have you ever wanted to design and print your own custom playing cards? Maybe for a new card game you're creating, or just for fun. Printing playing cards at home is easier than you may think.In this beginner's guide, I'll walk you through a simple 7-step process to print playing cards from the comfort of your home. No fancy equipment required!Step 1: Design Your Playing CardsThe first thing you need to do is design the actual cards you want to print. This step is where you can let your creativity run wild!I recommend using design software like Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign. But simpler programs like PowerPoint or Canva also work.Start by setting up your document dimensions to 2.5 x 3.5 inches, the standard poker card size. Then add your card backs, faces, icons, numbers, art, etc.If you're creating a custom card game, don't forget to think about formatting elements like:

• Borders
• Background colors
• Icons for different card types
• Areas for text or numbers

The design process is an art in itself. But the most important thing is that you end up with a set digital playing card designs that you love!​Step 2: Print Using Heavy Card StockNow it's time to turn your digital playing card designs into physical cards.You'll want to print playing cards on heavy card stock paper, not plain printer paper (which is too flimsy).Good card stock options include 14 pt gloss cover or linen cover stock. You can find these at most craft stores or online.As for home printers, inkjet models generally handle card stock best. Though you’ll want to check the specs of your specific printer.Step 3: Carefully Cut Out Each CardWith your cards printed, it's time for the tedious part - carefully cutting out each individual card.Using an accurate paper cutter, trim off any white edges so you're left with just the printed card faces. Then cut down the middle between cards, being sure to keep a straight line.You’ll be left with a stack of roughly cut playing cards, ready for finishing!Step 4: Smooth Edges with SandpaperNow we'll clean up those roughly cut edges so your cards have a smooth finish.Lightly rub each edge with fine grit sandpaper. Enough so card edges are flush, but not so much that you erase intricate design details along the borders.Work over a trash can so discarded paper bits don't make a mess. Once every card edge is smooth, wipe away any leftover debris with a dry cloth.Step 5: Round Corners (Optional)For an extra touch that makes your homemade playing cards look professionally printed, use a corner rounder punch on each card.Poker sized corner punches are cheap and widely available online. Place cards in the punch one at a time, applying even pressure to get a clean cut.Rounded corners help give your deck some flare while also preventing dog-eared cards during shuffling or gameplay.Step 6: Apply Clear Coating (Optional)You can stop after rounding card corners and have a very usable, printable playing card deck.But I like to take things a step further by applying a clear acrylic coating spray. This adds protection and gives the cards a slick, professional feel.Before coating, do a test spray on scrap card pieces to ensure the acrylic adheres and dries properly without damage. Then lay your cards out and apply 2-3 thin coats to both sides, allowing each coat to fully dry before the next.Step 7: Enjoy Your Custom Deck!After all that cutting, sanding, rounding, and coating...Congratulations, you officially have your very own set of printed playing cards!Now it's time to put them to good use. Deal up a hand and play some Go Fish with your family. Break in your new poker set with friends. Or test out the custom card game you designed.Whatever you decide to do with your homemade cards, take pride knowing you crafted something unique with your own two hands. From brainstorming designs to the final clear coat polish, that's something no ordinary deck from the store can match!In ClosingI hope my 7-step guide gives you the confidence to create and print your own playing cards at home. The process sounds complex, but truly only takes an afternoon once you're set up.If you have any questions or feedback on the card printing process, don't hesitate to drop me a comment below! I'm always happy to help a fellow DIY card maker.Now get out there, design some awesome playing card artwork, and start printing with GobookPrinting!