Creating your own deck of playing cards is an exciting and rewarding experience. Whether you’re designing a custom deck for a card game, creating oracle or affirmation cards, or making educational flashcards, this guide will walk you through the entire process. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right size to setting up your design file correctly. Let’s get started!

Why Make Your Own Playing Cards?

There are many reasons to make playing cards, whether for fun, business, or creativity. Custom decks are great for:

• Card game creators looking to prototype or sell their game.
• Coaches and educators who need personalised coaching or educational flashcards.
• Artists and designers wanting to create unique tarot or oracle cards.
• Businesses looking for promotional playing cards.
• Gifts and personal use, such as family photo playing cards.

Now, let’s start into the step-by-step process to create your own playing cards.

Step 1: Choose the Right Card Size

Before designing, it’s crucial to decide on the card size. Here at Spingold, we offer a variety of sizes to make playing cards:

• Poker Size 63.5mm x 88.8mm (2.5″ x 3.5″) – Standard playing card size.
• Bridge Size 57mm x 88.8mm (2.25″ x 3.5″) – Slightly narrower, great for trick cards.
• Flash Size (A6) – 105mm x 148.5mm (4.1″ x 5.8″)  – Ideal for educational flashcards.
• Education Size 89mm x 146mm (3.5″ x 5.75″) – Larger for easy reading and handling.
• Tarot Size 70mm x 120mm (2.75″ x 4.72″) – Perfect for tarot and oracle decks.
• Trump Size 62mm x 100mm (2.44″ x 3.93″) – Popular for collectible card games.
• Jumbo Size (A5) – 148.5mm x 210mm (5.8″ x 8.26″) – Large playing cards, excellent for events or educational purposes.
• Jumbo Size (A4) – 148.5mm x 210mm (5.8″ x 8.26″) – Large playing cards, excellent for events or educational purposes.
• Double Poker Size 89mm x 127mm (3.5″ x 5.0″) – Larger than standard poker cards for unique designs.

Need a more bespoke format?

Contact us

Step 2: Set Up Your Design File (Templates & Bleed)

To ensure your cards print perfectly, you need to set up your file correctly.

Use Our Free Templates

We offer free templates for every card size, which you can import into design software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, GIMP, or Canva. These templates include safe zones, cut lines, and bleed areas.

Understanding Bleed

• Trim line – The final cut line of your card.
• Bleed area – Extends beyond the trim line (3mm) to avoid unwanted white edges.
• Safe zone – Keep important text and elements inside this area to ensure they’re not cut off.

You can download the templates from our product pages – see links in Step 1.

Step 3: Design the Front and Back

Designing the Front

Your design should be engaging and clear. If you are making oracle or affirmation cards, consider using readable fonts and inspiring imagery. For game cards, ensure the icons and text are distinct.

Don’t Forget the Card Back!

Many first-time designers forget to design the back of their cards! Whether you want a simple colour, a pattern, or a custom logo, make sure to create a separate design file for the card back.

Step 4: Export Your File Correctly

Once your design is ready, export your file in 300 DPI resolution in CMYK colour mode (not RGB) for accurate colours. Save your design as a PDF, PNG, or JPG following our template guidelines.

Step 5: Upload and Print

Once your designs are ready, email them to us or use WeTransfer for larger file sizes.
We use our standard high-quality card stock. 320gsm professional playing card grade Stock
Request a free sample pack here – to see and feel the quality of our cards.

Creative Ideas for Custom Playing Cards

Need inspiration? Here are some ideas:

• Personalised Family Decks – Use photos of family members for a unique twist.
• Affirmation Cards – Include daily positive messages.
• Coaching Cards – Help clients reflect and engage in self-improvement.
• Learning Flashcards – Perfect for kids and language learners.
• Tarot & Oracle Decks – Create beautiful divination decks.
• Board Game Expansions – Design your own game cards.
• Corporate Branded Decks – Great for marketing and gifts.

Evaluate Your Design Before Printing

Before submitting your order, ask yourself:

• Are the text and images within the safe zone?
• Have I included bleed margins?
• Are the colours in CMYK mode?
• Is the back of the card designed?

Double-checking these points will ensure a perfect print every time!

Start Making Your Playing Cards Today!

Now that you know how to make playing cards, it’s time to bring your ideas to life! Browse our Playing Cards available sizes, download a template, and start designing today.
Ready to print? Visit our website and get started!

Get creative and design your perfect deck now!

If you have any more questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Selecting the right size for your custom playing card size is a critical step in ensuring they’re perfect for your needs. To help, we’ve compared the standard poker card size (63.5mm x 88.8mm) with a variety of popular alternatives. We’ve also created GIFs and templates to make it even easier for you to visualise the differences and start designing.

Let’s explore each size and how it stacks up against the standard poker card.

Understanding Different Playing Card Sizes

• Poker Size vs Double Poker Size
• Poker Size vs Bridge Size
• Poker Size vs Education Size
• Poker Size vs Flash Size
• Poker Size vs Tarot Size
• Poker Size vs Trump Size

1. Poker Size (63.5mm x 88.8mm) vs. Double Poker Size (89mm x 127mm)

Double Poker cards are significantly larger than the standard poker size, offering plenty of space for bold designs and larger text.
This size is ideal for special occasions, promotional decks, or educational purposes where readability and impact are key.

Animated Playing Card Sizes Comparison Guide : Standard Poker Size vs Double Poker Card Size

Best For:

• Promotional or branded decks
• Cards with large, detailed artwork or text
• Games for younger or older players who benefit from larger visuals

Template Available: Download the [Double Poker Template]. vs [Poker Cards Template]
Click here for more info and prices for Double Poker Playing Cards
Click here for more info and prices for Poker Cards

2. Poker Size (63.5mm x 88.8mm) vs. Bridge Size (57mm x 89mm)

Bridge cards are narrower than poker cards, making them easier to handle, especially for players with smaller hands.
While they maintain the same height as poker cards, their slim profile makes them ideal for games requiring a large hand of cards.

Animated Playing Card Sizes Comparison Guide : Standard Poker Size vs Bridge Card Size

Best For:

• Games like Bridge or Canasta
• Players with smaller hands
• Sleek and compact deck designs

Template Available: Download the [Bridge Size Template]. vs [Poker Cards Template]
Click here for more info and prices for Bridge Playing Cards
Click here for more info and prices for Poker Cards

3. Poker Size (63.5mm x 88.8mm) vs. Education Size (89mm x 146mm)

Education cards are notably larger than poker cards, offering an expansive canvas for text-heavy designs or graphics.
These cards are perfect for flashcards, learning tools, or card games with detailed instructions.

Animated Playing Card Sizes Comparison Guide : Standard Poker Size vs Education Card Size

Best For:

• Flashcards and learning tools
• Large-scale educational games
• Cards requiring extended instructions or visuals

Template Available: Download the [Education Size Template] vs [Poker Cards Template]
Click here for more info and prices for Education Cards
Click here for more info and prices for Poker Cards

4. Poker Size (63.5mm x 88.8mm) vs. Flash Size (105mm x 148.5mm)

Flash cards are even bigger than education cards, almost the size of a postcard.
Their size makes them perfect for presentations, teaching aids, or oversized card games that demand maximum visibility.

Animated Playing Card Sizes Comparison Guide : Standard Poker Size vs Flash Card Size

Best For:

• Group learning or presentation aids
• Oversized promotional cards
• Games where clarity and space are essential

Template Available: Download the [Flash Size Template] vs [Poker Cards Template]
Click here for more info and prices for Flash Cards
Click here for more info and prices for Poker Cards

5. Poker Size (63.5mm x 88.8mm) vs. Tarot Size (70mm x 120mm)

Tarot cards are slightly taller and narrower than poker cards, creating a sophisticated and elegant profile.
This size is widely used for tarot decks and oracle cards, as well as any designs with a premium feel.

Animated Playing Card Sizes Comparison Guide : Standard Poker Size vs Tarot Size

Best For:

• Tarot or oracle card decks
• Artistic or premium-quality decks
• Designs with intricate, vertical artwork

Template Available: Download the [Tarot Size Template]. vs [Poker Cards Template]
Click here for more info and prices for Tarot Cards
Click here for more info and prices for Poker Cards

6. Poker Size (63.5mm x 88.8mm) vs. Trump Size (62mm x 100mm)

Trump cards are similar to poker cards in width but slightly taller.
This size is often associated with classic trump card games and offers a unique alternative to the standard poker format.

Animated Playing Card Sizes Comparison Guide : Standard Poker Size vs Trump Size

Best For:

• Traditional trump card games
• A slightly taller and unique design
• Collectible or themed card decks

Template Available: Download the [Trump Size Template] vs [Poker Cards Template]
Click here for more info and prices for Trump Cards
Click here for more info and prices for Poker Cards

GIF Comparisons: See the Differences in Action

We hope our Playing Card Sizes Comparison Guide was helpful with the GIF animations, so you could see clearly the differences in dimensions.
These animations make it easy to choose the size that’s right for you. If you have more questions or need a more custom size of playing cards. Please don’t hesitate to contact us here or at 01206 262751

How to Choose the Perfect Size

• Choose Double Poker Size for bold, oversized decks with impact.
• Go with Bridge Size for sleek, narrow cards that are easy to handle.
• Pick Education or Flash Size for learning tools or cards with detailed text.
• Select Tarot Size for artistic, elegant designs.
• Try Trump Size for a taller, classic look.

Start Designing Your Deck Today

Download the templates for your preferred playing card sizes and start customising your cards. Whether you’re creating an educational tool, a personalised gift, or a promotional product, we’re here to help you make it perfect.

Get started today and bring your unique playing card vision to life!

Request – Free Sample Pack

Contact us if you have any more questions

Overview of all playing card sizes we do:

Affirmation cards have become an essential tool for personal empowerment, self-care, mindfulness, and creative inspiration. These simple yet powerful cards are more than just words on paper—they are reminders of positivity, hope, and strength that help us navigate life’s challenges. At Spingold, we believe in the transformative power of custom affirmation cards, and we’re here to inspire and guide you in creating your own unique deck.

What Are Affirmation Cards?

Affirmation cards are small, beautifully designed cards featuring uplifting messages, affirmations, or prompts that encourage positivity and self-reflection. They can be used daily to inspire confidence, focus, or a sense of calm. These cards are perfect companions for mindfulness practices, meditation, or simply as a source of encouragement during difficult moments.

Whether you’re seeking motivation, clarity, or a creative spark, affirmation cards offer a tangible way to reconnect with your inner self.

Why Create Personalised Affirmation Cards?

Creating your own affirmation cards allows you to tailor the messages and visuals to your unique journey. Your deck can reflect your values, challenges, and aspirations—making it a deeply personal tool for growth. Whether you want to address themes like overcoming fear, cultivating gratitude, or sparking creativity, personalised affirmation cards make the experience meaningful and impactful.

With Spingold’s downloadable templates for affirmation cards, you can seamlessly bring your vision to life. Our pre-designed templates in the perfect size—89mm x 146mm—are easy to load into popular design software, allowing you to focus on what matters most: your inspiration.

How to Create an Affirmation Card Deck

1. Define Your Purpose

   • What do you want your affirmation cards to achieve?
   • Are they for personal empowerment, mindfulness, or creative inspiration?
   • Choose a central theme for cohesion.

2. Craft Your Messages

   • Write affirmations that resonate with you or your audience. Examples include:
     • “I am capable of achieving my dreams.”
     • “Every challenge is an opportunity for growth.”
   • Keep the messages short, impactful, and positive.

3. Design the Cards

   • Use our affirmation card template to streamline the design process.
   • Choose colours, fonts, and imagery that align with your theme.
   • Include unique elements like hand-drawn illustrations or personal photography for a custom touch.

4. Select High-Quality Materials

   • Opt for durable card stock or laminated finishes to ensure longevity.

5. Print and Package

   • Once your designs are complete, contact us here or at 01206 262751.
   • Create a beautiful box with our templates.

Using Affirmation Cards in Daily Life

1. Morning Routine: Start your day by drawing a card to set a positive tone.
2. Mindfulness Practice: Use them during meditation or journaling to deepen your focus.
3. Creative Boost: Draw a card when you need fresh ideas or inspiration.
4. Overcoming Challenges: Carry a favourite card with you as a reminder of your resilience.

Stories of Transformation Through Affirmation Cards

Emma’s Journey to Self-Care
Emma was overwhelmed by the demands of her career. She decided to create her own affirmation card deck with messages focused on self-compassion and balance. Each morning, she’d draw a card and reflect on its message. Over time, her stress reduced, and she found joy in small, mindful moments.

David’s Path to Positivity
David struggled with self-doubt after starting his own business. He crafted a deck of affirmations centred on confidence and perseverance. Seeing his affirmations daily boosted his self-belief and helped him face challenges with courage.

Start Creating Your Affirmation Cards Today

At Spingold, we make it easy to bring your ideas to life with our affirmation card templates. Download a template, load it into your design software, and start creating a deck that reflects your unique journey.

Let your affirmation cards inspire, empower, and transform—not just for yourself, but for others who may need your words of encouragement.

Ready to get started? Explore our affirmation card resources and unleash your creativity today.

Whether for personal use, as a gift, or for your business, affirmation cards are a powerful way to spread positivity and hope. With Spingold’s support, the possibilities are endless. Take the first step toward creating your custom affirmation cards, and let your imagination shine!

Learn More and Get Started

Card games hold a timeless appeal, from the high-stakes thrill of poker to heartwarming family game nights. But what if you could elevate the experience by personalising the playing cards themselves? Customised decks not only make gameplay more engaging but also turn a simple game into something sentimental, creative, and unforgettable.

In this post, we’ll explore how to design unique playing cards for poker and other games. Plus, we’ll share inspiring stories of personalised decks and how they’ve added meaning to special occasions.

Why Choose Personalised Playing Cards?

1. Express Creativity: Your deck can reflect your unique style, interests, or sense of humour.
2. Memorable Gifts: A custom deck makes a meaningful present for birthdays, weddings, or corporate events.
3. Enhanced Gameplay: Tailor your cards for poker or other games, making the experience truly immersive.
4. Cherished Keepsakes: Personalised decks preserve memories, from family moments to special milestones.

Designing Playing Cards for Poker

Poker is a game of strategy and skill—and a custom deck adds a touch of sophistication to any poker night. Whether you’re creating a bespoke design or choosing a theme, here’s how to get started:

1. Select a Theme

Think about the story your deck will tell. Some ideas include:

• Vintage Elegance: Classic fonts, muted colours, and ornate patterns.
• Pop Culture: Incorporate elements from favourite TV shows, movies, or games.
• Personal Highlights: Add photos or designs representing milestones like anniversaries, travels, or achievements.

2. Card Design Essentials

• Suits & Ranks: Ensure your designs keep the cards easy to read and play.
• Jokers: These cards are perfect for quirky illustrations or personal symbols.
• Card Backs: Add a repeating logo, a meaningful image, or a creative pattern.
  

3. Choose High-Quality Materials

Opt for premium card stock with a linen finish for durability and a professional look.

4. Go Bigger with Double Poker Cards

For a more striking and versatile option, consider Double Poker Cards. These larger cards provide extra space for showcasing intricate designs, making them ideal for bold themes or detailed customisation. Perfect for adding a unique flair to your games while ensuring maximum readability and impact.

Inspiring Stories of Personalised Card Games

Wedding Poker Night

For their wedding, Alice and James designed custom playing cards featuring their travels. Each suit told a different chapter of their story, and guests took home the decks as keepsakes after a lively poker night at the reception.
For more inspiration: Wedding Playing Cards

A Creative Tribute

Emily honoured her late grandfather’s love for poker by creating a deck using his artwork. Each card featured one of his sketches, turning every family poker game into a touching reminder of his legacy.

Team Spirit Decks

A tech startup created personalised poker cards for their annual retreat. Each suit represented a department, and team leaders were illustrated on the face cards. The decks became a fun, morale-boosting tool for the company.

Tips to Create Your Personalised Card Games

At Spingold, we simplify the process of creating custom playing cards. Whether it’s a poker deck for game night or a bespoke pack for a special event, we’ve got you covered with our templates and design services.

1. Explore Our Templates

Start with our easy-to-use templates, perfect for personalising with photos, text, or graphics. Compatible with Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or similar tools, these templates ensure a seamless design process.
You find our templates on following pages:

Poker Cards – 63.5mm x 88.8mm (2.5″ x 3.5″)
Bridge Cards – 57mm x 88.8mm (2.25″ x 3.5″)
Trump Cards – 62mm x 100mm (2.44″ x 3.93″)
Tarot Cards – 70mm x 120mm (2.75″ x 4.72″)
Double Poker Size – 89mm x 127mm (3.5″ x 5.0″)
Education Cards – 89mm x 146mm (3.5″ x 5.75″)
Flash Cards – 105mm x 148.5mm (4.1″ x 5.8″) (A6)
Jumbo Cards – 148.5mm x 210mm (5.8″ x 8.26″) (A5)
Jumbo Cards – 210mm x 297mm (8.26″ x 11.69″) (A4)
Game Cards – Custom Size

2. Work with Our Design Experts

Looking for something truly unique? Let our professional designers craft a bespoke playing card pack tailored to your vision. From intricate illustrations to themed layouts, we’ll bring your ideas to life.

3. Select Your Finish and Packaging

Choose from a range of premium finishes and custom packaging options to enhance your deck. Add a gift box or a personalised message for an extra-special touch.

4. Simple Ordering Process

• Submit Your Artwork: Email designs under 15MB or use services like Wetransfer for larger files. (See our FAQ for instructions)
• Preview and Approve: Review a digital proof of your deck to ensure every detail is perfect.
• Place Your Order: Confirm your order and select the quantity needed.
• Delivery: Relax while we print and ship your custom playing cards to your door.

Why Personalised Playing Cards Matter

Custom playing cards are more than just a game accessory—they’re about creating connections, sharing stories, and preserving memories. Whether you’re designing a poker deck to impress your friends or crafting a heartfelt gift, personalised cards add depth to every shuffle and deal.

Ready to Create Your Deck?

Explore our Poker Cards and Double Poker Cards to get started. Reach out to us for design assistance or more information at 01206 262751, or contact us here. Let’s make your next game night extraordinary!

The Magic of Branded Corporate Gifts: Impress, Connect, and Inspire

Personalised Wedding Favours: Unforgettable Gifts for Every Guest

Custom Playing Cards for Themed Parties: Bring on the Fun!

Unique and Customised Event Branding Ideas

Elevate Your Event with Spingold Design & Print

Why Choose Personalised Playing Cards for Kids?

Popular Kids’ Themes for Personalised Cards

Customisation Options for Personalised Kids’ Cards

Educational Uses for Personalised Flash Cards

Conclusion

Hosting a game night with friends or family is an excellent way to unwind, enjoy friendly competition, and create lasting memories. But if you’re looking to take the fun to the next level, personalised game decks are the perfect addition! Custom-designed cards can transform any ordinary game night into a memorable experience. Let’s explore creative ideas and customisation options to design personalised decks that will elevate your next gathering.

Why Personalised Decks Are Perfect for Game Nights

Adding a personal touch to game night decks enhances the atmosphere and reflects the unique personalities of the players. Whether you’re bringing people together for a special occasion or just a casual hangout, a customised deck of cards creates excitement and personal connections that standard game cards simply can’t match.

Key Benefits of Personalised Game Decks:

Creative Ideas for Personalised Game Decks

When designing a custom deck for game night, the possibilities are endless. Here are some inventive ways to personalise your cards and add a special twist to the games:

1. Themed Decks for Special Occasions

Celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or holiday? Create a deck specifically themed around the occasion. For example, a Halloween-themed deck could feature spooky illustrations, while a birthday deck could include pictures of past celebrations with friends and family. This makes each game night more festive and relevant to the event at hand.

Popular Themes:

2. Personal Memory Decks

Create a game deck that revolves around shared memories, making each card a snapshot of a special moment. This idea works perfectly for family reunions, weddings, or milestone anniversaries, turning the game into a nostalgic journey through time.

For example:

3. Inside Jokes & Custom Messages Deck

Nothing brings friends closer together than shared humour. A deck filled with inside jokes, funny nicknames, or quirky catchphrases unique to your group can keep everyone laughing throughout the night. Tailoring your cards with sayings or quotes that only your circle understands adds an intimate touch to the game.

4. Custom Game Rules & Wildcards

Custom rules are perfect for groups that love to modify classic games. Create your own deck with cards that introduce special rules, wildcards, or challenges for a twist on traditional games like Uno, Poker, or Go Fish. Each new card can introduce exciting turns, forcing players to adapt in real time.

Examples of Custom Rules:

5. Trivia & Puzzle Decks

For groups that love mental challenges, creating trivia or puzzle cards can add an educational or competitive edge to game night. Each card could pose a question, puzzle, or challenge, and players earn points based on how quickly or accurately they solve it.

Ideas for Trivia/Puzzle Decks:

6. Personalised Educational Decks for Kids

Game nights aren’t just for adults! Personalised decks designed for younger players can make learning fun. For example, you can create flashcards with custom designs that teach math, vocabulary, or even social skills through play.

Ideas for Kids’ Decks:

Customisation Options for Your Personalised Deck

Once you’ve settled on your theme or concept, it’s time to choose the physical design elements that will make your deck stand out. From materials to finishes, you have plenty of ways to make your deck unique.

1. Material Finishes: Gloss, Matte, or Linen

Choosing the right finish for your cards is crucial to how they feel and function. Here are the most popular options:

2. Personalised Card Sizes & Shapes

Custom card sizes are available to suit the needs of different types of games or players. You can opt for:

3. Full-Colour Printing & Artwork

Bring your personalised deck to life with full-colour printing options. Whether you want intricate designs or simple colour schemes, full-colour printing ensures your deck stands out. Include original artwork, photos, or illustrations that match your theme.

4. Text, Photos, Logos, and More

Maximise customisation by adding text, logos, or photos to every card. Whether it’s a funny quote, a company logo for corporate events, or a family photo, including these elements adds extra layers of meaning and personalisation to your cards.

Where to Get Personalised Game Cards for Your Next Game Night

Creating personalised game decks has never been easier. Our Personalised Game Cards service offers a range of customisation options, including various finishes like gloss, matte, and linen, as well as different card sizes to fit your preferences. With high-quality materials and full-colour printing, you can craft the perfect deck for any occasion.

Conclusion

Personalised decks are a fantastic way to elevate any game night. Whether you’re designing a theme-based deck for a special occasion, incorporating family photos for a nostalgic touch, or crafting unique game rules, custom game cards make the experience more engaging and memorable. With endless design possibilities, from custom finishes to unique card sizes, you can ensure every game night feels special and tailored to your group’s dynamic. Ready to start creating your custom deck? Visit our Personalised Game Cards page today and bring your game night vision to life.

Request – Free Sample Pack

Why Choose Corporate Branded Playing Cards?

Benefits of Corporate Branded Playing Cards

Customisation Options for Corporate Branded Playing Cards

1. Card Material and Finish

2. Custom Card Designs

3. Personalised Card Types

Creating Your Custom Corporate Playing Cards

Templates and Design

Popular Themes for Corporate Playing Cards

• Corporate Milestones: Celebrate your company’s milestones with a special edition deck.
• Product Launches: Use your playing cards to educate clients about a new product or service.
• Team-Building Events: Custom decks can be tailored to match the theme of your event, whether it’s a trivia night or an office poker tournament.

Why Choose Us for Your Corporate Branded Playing Cards?

Final Thoughts

Why Choose Personalised Wedding Playing Cards?

Ideas for Using Wedding Playing Cards

Personalisation Options for Wedding Playing Cards

Creating Your Perfect Deck of Wedding Playing Cards

Why Choose Custom Playing Cards?

Custom Playing Cards by Type

Customisation Options for Your Playing Cards

Templates for Easy Designing

Create a Deck That Tells a Story

Ready to Design Your Custom Playing Cards?