Priya Kapoor
MTG proxy cards are printed, homemade copies of MTG cards with different art or abilities, or a custom card that doesn't exist in Magic. They are often used for playtesting and allow players to simulate games with cards they do not own or are considering purchasing. MTG proxies are also used to foster an inclusive, respectful, and engaged community of players. When creating MTG proxy cards, it is important to respect the game's creators and legal boundaries. While the community generally accepts proxies for personal use, it is illegal to reproduce copyrighted material without permission and proxies are not allowed in official tournaments or events. To create high-quality MTG proxies, players will need to gather specific materials and use a template from a real Magic card to ensure accuracy in size and placement of artwork and text. The standard size of an MTG card is 2.5 x 3.5 inches (63.5 x 88.9 mm).
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| MTG Proxy Card Size | 2.5 x 3.5 inches (63.5 x 88.9 mm) |
| DPI | 300 |
| Pixel Count | 818 x 1111 or 746 x 1039 with a 36-pixel bleed area on all 4 sides |
| Template | Use a template from a real Magic card to ensure accuracy in size, placement, and artwork |
| Printer | Use a high-quality printer and cardstock paper |
| Finish | Use a glossy finish with a clear spray sealer or laminate the cards |
| Foil Backing | Optional, but makes the proxy more authentic |
| Legalities | Do not sell or pass off as genuine cards to avoid violating copyright laws |
| Usage | Generally accepted for personal use and casual settings, but not allowed in official tournaments or events |
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What You'll Learn
MTG proxy cards should be 2.5 x 3.5 inches
When creating MTG proxy cards, it is essential to respect the game's creators and stay within legal boundaries. Proxy cards should not be sold or passed off as genuine cards, as this violates copyright laws and undermines the integrity of the game. The MTG community generally accepts proxies for personal use, especially in casual settings, but it is important to note that they are banned from official tournaments and sanctioned events.
To create high-quality MTG proxy cards, gather the necessary materials, including a template of a real Magic card to ensure accurate sizing and placement of artwork and text. Use image editing software to add the card artwork and text, and consider using a glossy finish or laminating the cards for a more authentic feel. Additionally, a foil backing can make the proxies more challenging to distinguish from real cards.
It is worth noting that while proxy cards are modified versions of MTG cards or completely custom creations, they differ from counterfeit cards. Counterfeit cards are intended to be indistinguishable from genuine MTG cards and are created for sale or distribution, which is illegal as Wizards of the Coast owns all rights to the card's artwork. Proxy cards, on the other hand, are for personal use and should not infringe on the creator's rights or harm the value of genuine cards.
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DPI is important for home printing
MTG proxy cards should be the same size as a regular MTG card, which is 2.5 x 3.5 inches. When creating your own, you can use a template from a real Magic card to ensure the size and placement of the artwork and text are accurate. You can also use the official MTG Card Archive Image Gallery to find card artwork for your proxies.
Now, onto the importance of DPI in home printing. DPI stands for dots per inch and is a measure of the resolution of an image. It refers to the physical dot density of an image when it is reproduced onto a physical medium, such as paper. In simple terms, it tells us how many individual dots can be placed within a span of one inch.
DPI is important because it directly impacts the quality of the final image. A lower DPI means a lower quality image, while a higher DPI will result in a better quality image. The ideal resolution for printing is considered to be around 300 DPI, as it is about the limit of the human eye. Starting with a high DPI is generally recommended because it can always be reduced later in the process if needed.
However, it's worth noting that DPI is not the only factor that determines print quality. Other factors include the type of paper used, the line ruling (Lines Per Inch or LPI), colour profiles, and the space used in the artwork. Additionally, the quality of the printer itself plays a role, as some printers may lower the resolution during the printing process due to storage limitations or other technical constraints.
In summary, DPI is an important consideration in home printing as it affects the resolution and overall quality of the printed image. By understanding the relationship between DPI and image quality, you can make informed decisions to achieve the desired results for your MTG proxy cards or any other printing projects.
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Use a template from a real Magic card
To ensure your MTG proxy cards are the correct size, it is recommended to use a template from a real Magic card. The official Magic: The Gathering website has a Card Image Gallery that contains images of all Magic cards, which can be used as a template.
To create your own template, open a high-resolution scan or image of a real Magic card in image editing software like Photoshop. Use the paint bucket tool to fill in the areas where the artwork and text will go. Save the template as a high-resolution image file. Then, print it out and use it as a guide when creating your MTG proxies.
When printing your proxies, use a high-quality printer and cardstock paper. This will ensure that the colours on the proxies are vibrant and the cards are sturdy. Print the completed proxy templates onto cardstock paper, making sure that the size and placement of the artwork and text are the same as on the original card.
You can also use online card printing services like Printing Proxies, MPC, or MTG Proxy, which offer more realistic-looking cards. For example, Printing Proxies prints their proxy cards on similar cardstock as actual MTG cards. Alternatively, use a service like MTG Print to print your proxy cards on your home printer.
It is important to note that while proxy cards are allowed in casual games with friends, they are generally not permitted in official Magic: The Gathering tournaments. However, some local tournaments may allow proxies for basic lands, and proxies may be used as replacements for damaged cards during tournament play.
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Use a glossy finish to make proxies feel more authentic
To make authentic-looking MTG proxy cards, it is important to pay attention to the details. Firstly, ensure that your proxy cards are the correct size, which is 2.5 x 3.5 inches. Using a template from a real Magic card can help you achieve accurate sizing and placement of the artwork and text. When selecting card images, opt for high-resolution images that closely resemble the actual card. You can use the official MTG Card Archive Image Gallery or online resources like MTG Print and ScryFall to find suitable templates. However, be cautious when using online templates as their quality may vary.
After designing your proxy cards, the next step is printing. Use a high-quality printer and cardstock paper to ensure vibrant colours and sturdy cards. If you are using paper, consider choosing glossier options such as photo paper to achieve a glossy finish. Once printed, you can further enhance the authenticity of your proxy cards by applying a clear spray sealer or laminating sheets to give them a glossy finish and a more authentic feel. This step is optional but can significantly improve the overall appearance of your proxies.
It is important to note that while proxy cards can be used in casual games with friends, they are generally not allowed in official Magic: The Gathering tournaments due to copyright and legality concerns. Always respect the intellectual property rights of Wizards of the Coast, the company that owns Magic: The Gathering, and refrain from selling proxy cards or using them for commercial purposes. Additionally, be transparent with your peers about the nature of your proxy cards to maintain a fair and enjoyable gaming experience for all.
By following these steps and using high-quality materials, you can create MTG proxy cards that not only look the part but also feel authentic thanks to the glossy finish. Remember to use proxy cards responsibly and always check with tournament organisers or game store policies before using proxies in any official capacity.
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Don't sell or pass off proxies as genuine cards
When creating an MTG proxy, the recommended size is 2.5 by 3.5 inches, or the standard size of an MTG card. It is important to ensure that the proxy fits seamlessly into a card sleeve and does not stick out, as this may lead to accusations of marked cards.
Now, onto the topic of selling or passing off proxies as genuine cards. It is important to understand the risks and responsibilities associated with selling Magic: The Gathering (MTG) proxies. While these unofficial replicas of Magic cards can be useful for testing decks, casual play, or protecting expensive cards, they are not meant to be passed off as official cards.
Firstly, it is essential to label your items clearly as proxies or custom cards. Failing to do so can lead to accusations of counterfeiting, which is illegal. By attempting to sell proxies as official cards, you risk infringing on the intellectual property rights of Wizards of the Coast, the company that holds the rights to Magic: The Gathering.
Additionally, selling proxies that closely resemble official cards without proper labelling can result in legal trouble. It is crucial to be transparent with buyers and state explicitly that the product is a proxy and not an official card. Selling proxies as genuine cards can also lead to negative feedback from disappointed customers who find out that their purchases are not what they expected.
Furthermore, it is important to consider copyright laws when creating and selling MTG proxies. Using official artwork or copyrighted material without permission is illegal and can lead to legal issues. To avoid this, some proxy creators use third-party art or original pieces, always ensuring they have the necessary permissions.
In conclusion, while selling MTG proxies can be a profitable venture, it is crucial to follow ethical guidelines and legal requirements. Passing off proxies as genuine cards is not only dishonest but also illegal and can lead to negative consequences for both the seller and the buyer. Always be transparent, label your products accurately, and respect the intellectual property rights of Wizards of the Coast and other artists.
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Frequently asked questions
MTG proxy cards should be 2.5 x 3.5 inches or 63.5 x 88.9 mm.
A DPI of 300 is recommended for home printing.
Yes, it is illegal to reproduce copyrighted material without permission. Proxy cards are allowed for personal use but are not allowed in official tournaments or events.
