What to Look for When Buying Playing Cards?

Playing cards are a versatile and timeless tool for entertainment, whether you're hosting a game night, practicing magic tricks, or simply enjoying a casual game with friends and family. With so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right deck. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to look for when buying playing cards. Additionally, consider the benefits of promotional playing cards as a unique and memorable marketing tool for your business.

1. Card Stock Quality

The quality of the card stock is crucial for durability and handling. High-quality cards are usually made from plastic-coated paper or 100% plastic. Plastic-coated cards are more affordable and provide good durability, while 100% plastic cards offer superior durability and are often used in professional settings.

Key Points:

• Plastic-Coated Paper: Affordable and durable for casual use.
• 100% Plastic: Highly durable, resistant to bending and wear, ideal for professional use.

2. Finish

The finish on playing cards affects their feel and how easily they can be shuffled and dealt. The two main types of finishes are:

• Smooth Finish: Offers a sleek feel but can be slippery.
• Textured (Air-Cushion) Finish: Provides better grip and handling, preferred for card tricks and games.

3. Design and Aesthetics

The design of the playing cards, including the artwork and typography, can enhance your playing experience. Some decks feature intricate designs, while others stick to classic styles. Consider what appeals to you visually and matches the theme of your card games or events.

4. Size and Index

Playing cards come in different sizes and index styles:

• Poker Size (2.5" x 3.5"): Standard size for most card games.
• Bridge Size (2.25" x 3.5"): Narrower, easier to handle for smaller hands.
• Standard Index: Traditional, easy-to-read numbers and faces.
• Jumbo Index: Larger numbers and faces, easier to see from a distance.

5. Purpose

Consider the primary use of your playing cards:

• Casual Gaming: Standard decks with classic designs.
• Magic Tricks: Specialized decks with unique features like marked cards.
• Collecting: Limited edition decks with unique artwork.
• Promotional Use: Customized decks with your brand’s logo and message.

6. Brand Reputation

Choose playing cards from reputable brands known for their quality and durability. Popular brands include Bicycle, Bee, and Tally-Ho. These brands offer consistency in card quality and performance, making them reliable choices for both casual and professional use.

Custom and Promotional Playing Cards

Promotional playing cards are not just for playing games; they are also excellent marketing tools. Customizable playing cards can feature your company's logo, message, or unique design, making them a memorable giveaway at events, trade shows, or as part of a marketing campaign. These cards can help increase brand visibility and engagement, offering a fun and interactive way to connect with your audience.

For businesses looking to leverage the appeal of playing cards, QualityImprint offers a wide range of customizable options. These promotional playing cards can be tailored to fit your branding needs, ensuring that your message stands out.

Conclusion

When buying playing cards, consider factors such as card stock quality, finish, design, size, purpose, and brand reputation to ensure you choose the best deck for your needs. Additionally, promotional playing cards offer a unique way to market your brand and engage with your audience. For more information on customizing your own promotional playing cards, call 1-888-377-9339 or email care@qualityimprint.com. Enhance your marketing strategy with QualityImprint today!