Awesome EU Fabryka Kart Printer Review!:D

Last week was Great Surprise as I was awaken by delivery call with parcel for me to realize it’s Sample Parcel Awesome Printer Company I Discovered few days ago send me day before arriving within only 2days!✨🎁💖 Wow! How Cool is That for Fast Shipping to my part of the world And Best part this Big 3kg parcel shipping seems affordable with UPS service they used & I will update this review with more info if I find good shipping provider in Poland that can do shipping for me & other deck creators (aka fulfillment= deliver all decks worldwide after printing with good rates & tracking!💕

so, this Big Box I Got turn out to be my B day & Christmas Gifts 🎁as there was plenty of super tiny & other boxes & Cards inside all shrink wrapped & cell wrapped for me to open!😃🎁💖💕🧡❤

Note: here you can see All I Got Here!^^ Yey!^^ Super Happy Bday to me!😃🎁💖💖✨✨✨

Starting with this Superfancy Katalog I Like & you can download here: https://www.fabryka-kart.eu/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/katalog_EN.pdf

it’s same as printed version I’ve got only Super quality paper much thicker than your standard paper & with UV Gloss effect applied on some pages design elements as seen here!

                                    

What I like about this company; https://www.fabryka-kart.eu/

✔fact it’s Super Advanced Card Printer with Long Tradition & Experience in Card Industry!✨
✔Located in Europe aka it saves us shipping time cost & import tax & other fees for EU parcels! 👍 & fact they can print puzzles & other wooden & plastic elements makes it perfect for kickstarter!💖👍 & I would recommend it to my favorite artist Tarot in progress https://www.sylvia-ritter.com/

✔Good Web Presentation that include fb page & youtube videos:

✔Wonderful Product Katalog with plenty options for deck creators including my favorite Pro linen cardstock & fancy Hot & Cold stamping effects as well as Gilded edges & Glitter!✨✨✨ & plenty box option for 2piece box or clam shell box & wooden box!🎁🎁🎁❤

✔Standards Certificates & Forbes Diamond Award 2019 affirm Great printed product quality!✨💕

✔Awesome Costumer service ready to answer All Questions & I have plenty!😁💌💌💌

& Here is my review of All Samples with pictures!

Note: I received plenty of Decks & Boxes of different size & cardstock & finish type & must say all looks professional good quality & all cards shuffle well (I am light shuffler & treat all my cards with care!:) & all prints are perfectly sharp with clear white & deep black & other colors ( it's my camera not being sharp enough & moving at times!:)

as you can tell from this review this is Big pro company working with plenty international clients specialized in game & card production & will work great for most of playing card & other projects requiring hi quality print & box options & extra plastic or wooden elements making it perfect for most Kickstarter projects especially considering fact it will save you shipping time & cost & no extra fees for Europe backers!:)💖

This Big black box with UV Gloss finish for Twilight Zone DVD Special edt Stands Out with

Stylish UV Gloss Design (similar to my favorite True Black Tarot!;)  Note: you can see dvd stand insert inside that is also made of good quality paper cardboard same as all inserts I have here & personally I prefer cardboard over plastic as eco friendly & more classy solution!✨👍👍 

 as seen here top alone is firm enough to keep All my 3kg samples inside while I write this review!😃👍❤✨

Also this big white game box printed with gloss interior & exterior is my fav & recommended as firm & best looking if you aim for modern professional hi gloss DV box style to hold your deck & book!✨ Note: this game is called Dieux & Deesses by Ortho & feat 3 standard size playing card decks for questionnaire game & interesting spiral bound booklet as well as big saddle stitched booklet & plenty of fine firm glossy paper inserts printed full color & can print our Tarot & Oracle booklets in same great quality & full color & No limit for pages!💖

Main Sample box is made from 2piece sturdy cardboard with elegant matt finish with UV gloss effect around logo & interesting drawer style insert (similar to Modern Witch Tarot box!:) with my favorite linen finish easy to open & good fit for All Samples set inside you see here; Note top have printed specification: 1.2 mm-thick gray cardboard, smooth coated paper laminate + UV gloss finish & bottom 1.2 mm-thick white cardboard linen texture coated paper laminate & I find this materials perfect for sturdy quality Tarot & Oracle box!✨

including 2folding board cardboard samples with linen finish:

 & perfect for puzzle punch board cardboard samples of different density also with linen finish!:)

& here is smallest tuckbox with small chip cardboard samples different density & UV Led matt & gloss linen finish!:)

Standard Bridge size card samples of different Cardstock Options:

Nova (ok for most games but you may see through what's printed on other side)

Mono (similar to above but with not transparent option of 500gsm!:)

Pro (for professional games that require complete lack of card transparency!:)

Mentioned card samples as well as all decks sizes i've received all look super quality sharp print & rich colors & feel ok & shuffle well & I Recommend my favorite carbon core Pro 320gsm & 350gsm & carbon core Linen 320gsm & up as Best for Tarot & Oracle decks!👍💖✨✨✨💕 & find Pro 320gsm specification feel & quality similar to my favorite 320gsm cardstock option I use for all my decks selfpublished with US based Print on Demand companies I use & everyone like & recommend: 
thegamecrafter (best UPS international shipping rates!:) & drivethrucards (best US shipping rates!;)
Note both my US PoD use 320gsm linen cardstock with black carbon core for best snap & shuffle!:)

Here is glossy laminated red tuckbox for 7x12cm Card size Standard Tarot size deck

Personally I find this Standard Tarot size card Best & Recommend this company making Tarot size Samples to present different cardstock (starting from 300gsm & up Pro & Mono cardstock) & finish options such as smooth & linen, gloss & matt, as well as UV Gloss, Metallic Hot & Cold Stamping, Glitter & Gilded edges effect to present these options best to Tarot Creators?;) & packed in 2 piece box or maybe something that opens like a book?:) imo it would look simple & easy to make 1 side longer & overlap opening side with this foldingboard cut technique?:)

here is my idea i call *flap box or simple book box!^^ let me know what you think is best or your favorite Tarot box style?;) lol btw you can also see linen texture on folding board top here best!✨

Deck in red matt tuckbox is bit slimmer & shorter card size that may work well for some games but imo anything less than 7x12cm may be to small for Tarot art?;)

I also got 2 game cards decks shrink wrapped without box & card size is wide as previous but bit shorter (Trump title indicate Trump size!:) & imo these proportion may work well for smaller deck:

& title card here have Metallic Golden effect font (think it's metallic foil hot or cold stamping?;) I like that is good quality & hard to scratch (I know, I try!;) lol Note Pic blurred by my camera moving!

& here is My fav America Golden Age Comic Design & Border Color is perfect Vintage i like!:D cards are smooth surface made of good cardstock that shuffles well & no transparency recommended if you prefer smaller Tarot cards!💕💕💕

Smallest Red tuckbox is standard playing card size & printed with Great Quality Embossed Metallic Golden Font I like!👍✨✨💖

& These are Tiny 3x4,5cm playing cards Adorable & Surprisingly Sharp Printed on Good Quality Cardstock I find not different from your Standard Size Good Quality Cards by Piatnik!👍💖💖💖

 Here you see tiny & standard playing card deck & box side by side same design as well!😃🧡🧡

These are 1 of 2decks of playing cards made for popular kinder brand

& these card face are my favorite & same as tiny deck so definitely my game shelf!😃💖👍✨

& These chocolate textured back are yummi!🍫💖

Here you see interesting modern Playing cards design with different Colored Metallic square Mirror effect instead your usual Jack(Copper) Queen(Silver) & King(Gold!:) Must Say These are my favorite Great Job Everyone!✨✨✨👍 will update when I find out technique is this?:)

✨Hi Gloss UV Effect highlighting specific design elements: players silhouette & statistic boxes with numbers with smooth shiny surface that stand out over rest of the rough texture card surface make Bundesliga Quarter Regular Standard Playing Card Game cards Looks interesting to eye & touch Note this Hi Gloss UV effect is Similar to True Black Tarot only non glossy elements here are not soft but rough!;)💖

I also received 5 card games with 2 piece box different size & finish from matt to gloss & my favorite is linen style & I find this company Superb Quality Print Material 2 piece box All Size Good Quality & Sturdy to hold your cards & Recommend to All Tarot & Oracle Creators!✨👍💖❤❤ they all have different inserts options & I prefer paper & cardboard!👍✨💖💖 also you can see plenty of printed mini folded booklets & I find these all good paper & print quality perfect for guidebooks & well fit with decks inside these good box!;)

here are some pic:

Unlock sturdy 2piece box is tallest & my favorite with great linen finish I like & beautiful full color saddle stitch booklet of great paper quality I like will make perfect Tarot & Oracle guidebook!:) card size is around 6x11,2cm (same as 2nd deck i've mentioned here in red matt tuckbox) & all is well fit with colored cardboard insert made with smooth glossy finish that makes smooth storage option!✨

Deckscape sturdy 2 piece box is also my favorite linen texture & deck inside is wider & shorter than Tarot 8,5x11cm card size with smooth finish & imo this size may be perfect for Oracle Cards also there is full color folding booklet with instructions

Misty Beautiful pink sturdy 2 piece box with 3 separate folding booklets in different languages & cards inside are slim & tall 4,5x9cm & illustrations are adorable original so I'm looking forward to playing these with my family!;)

Final 2 piece sturdy box are both black & similar size & style with folded leaflet & 2 standard playing card size decks with inserts:
  
Yooloo 2 piece sturdy box with 2standard playing card decks white cardboard insert & 1small leaf folded instruction

Exploding kittens 2 piece sturdy box with 2 standard playing card decks printed with my favorite linen effect both on card front & backs!:) (btw at first I thought this is odd japanese game but it seems to be super popular kickstarter i only know now?lol +18 so card illustration in pic will give you idea!x,x ;)

& here is another standard playing card game packed in plastic box that is easy to open but personally I prefer hot over morbid anytime & clear plastic boxes from drivethrucards are my favorite!;)

Note: Here you can see picture of Golden Universal Tarot I have & like!😃💖👍❤
 https://www.fabryka-kart.eu/en/kompletne-gry/
& you may notice Shadowscapes Tarot pic in Katalog production line so I will update this review upon receiving confirmation if this company printed Shadowscapes & other Tarot decks?😉

* * * ✨✨✨👍👍👍💖🎁💕💕❤😃👍💖🌟🌞⭐

I Conclude this review with hope there will be part 2 when I have my decks printed by this company & share my print experience with pictures of my decks to show!😀😁💖💖💖

Note

& if you are Deck Creator looking for Best Printer for your deck guidebook box & other kickstarter perks check quotes here: https://www.fabryka-kart.eu/en/formularz-zamowienia/

 Recommended cardstock: Pro 320gsm, Pro 350gsm & Pro 320gsm linen
(Note: All Pro are carbon core cards are pro quality for long use & lower gsm are even better for playing cards as thinner cardstock takes bending better but Tarot Collector have their old fashioned preferences for thicker cardstock that similar to *old fashioned cards?:)
also be sure to ask for rounded corners & any extra you have in mind (booklet, box etc)

Note in your 1^st reply you will get link for pdf file preparation instructions I find well written & easy to understand (I will share Standard Tarot card template & more info about instructions for preparing cards for print with effect soon!:) for now I find 1pdf page for same card back design & 1pdf with pages for each card front design & cards & box quality on level with my favorite EU Print on Demand Ludocards Italy full review here!;)

& if you are Artist or deck creator be sure to check my full guide for printing & publishing your deck here: http://creativenlight.blogspot.com/2020/04/deck-creation-and-what-you-need-to-know.html

& order printed version: https://www.thegamecrafter.com/games/how-to-create-print-publish-your-own-tarot-or-oracle-deck

& the gamecrafter 320gsm linen Tarot size sample cards here: https://www.thegamecrafter.com/games/10-tarot-size-sample-cards-bookmark-set

Hope you find this & my other posts helpful!^^

Feel free to ask me anything!😊

& let me know your experience with this & other card printers you wish to recommend for our Deck Printer List: http://creativenlight.blogspot.com/2020/03/printer-list.html

All Best!
MyLuckyCard
reall/Irena

👍✨💖✨💕✌

Card Printer list

Good printers confirmed/review list;) 

Update 19 jan 2024 to add Disclaimer & Note to check https://www.trustpilot.com/ for more recent reviews of any web page you plan using as this post is written few years back & not fully up to Date!(; I'm still looking for Best printer especially in Europe!;)

: All printer prices & shipping rates are Up & production time is longer!

Concerning fact linen cardstock is near impossible to find & pod linen cardstock quality is declining compared to linen cardstock quality few years back so im trying to figure linen cardstock production in my own country Bosnia Europe but Not EU~0% progress so far!xc

POD(Print on Demand) List;

US based;

https://www.thegamecrafter.com/(aka TGC) best price for best cardstock quality linen 12pt 320gsm black core with UV finish custom made box and option for shop page & best shipping rates worldwide! print books! +big selection of game parts including Transparent & Holographic Cards & all sorts of box, bags & blank cards & sleeves, & discount for creators & larger quantities these are great for DIY & ks projects!:)  Production time is now around 5 to 15 days, Note; their prints may have stronger yellow hue &  drift can be a bit much, so make sure that your important parts are inside the safe zone but otherwise replace defective decks at no cost to the artist.

 

http://www.drivethrucards.com/ (aka DTC aka OneBookShelf) - their Embossed (aka linen) card stock is 320gsm 11pt with good colors and silk UV finish & shipping rates in US, it say Printed in US & offer best costumer support + discount price for  larger quantities+ option for larger prints and poster+ books! and shop page!:)) + best statistic sale/earnings overview & payment options for seller!:) full review here; http://creativenlight.blogspot.ba/2017/01/drivethrucardsonebookshelf-review

downside; outdated web interface, complicated print file preparation & expensive shipping outside US (+20$!x,x) also starting August 2021 discontinued Bridge card size & linen cardstock option for all but Tarot card size!x//

http://superiorpod.com/category/custom-card-decks#.WvWXf4VOKDs offer best options & price for different cardstock box books & more as well as shop option for publisher via Adventure Game Source and Wackadu. This family owned company is taking Big Steps at Top of this list with it's modern automated printing process, plenty different cardstock options including waterproof/tear-proof & holo stock in different sizes, can print round cards, books & stickers & plenty other game & merch, expanding box options to include: regular tuckbox and tuck box that open on the long side for tarot cards as well as envelope style box & rigid two piece box (wrapped & plastic), tins & custom box options for customers!:D web page is handmade & will continue to improve & you can watch regular updates on official fb page: https://www.facebook.com/superiorpod Will Share my full review when I receive my test prints!:) Looking forward to Selfpublishing my decks with these great people in future as both Jeff & Anthony are great to work with & answered all my questions so feel free to contact them if you have any question regarding your print ideas!:)Downside according to their fb it seems their production time is around +20days!?

 

https://www.primoprint.com/ products big selection of printed products including cards, stickers & bookmarks including UV &  foil option!:)

 https://smartpress.com/offering/collated-printing

 

https://www.printplaygames.com/product/cards-tarot/

 

http://store.vervante.com/c/affil/index.html seems to offer best deal for 100decks(not sure about price but they let you sell on amazon & other big bookstore?:)

"offer cards printed on demand, printing in short runs and offset printed on 12 pt C2S stock equivalent to 260 gsm.  Any size with square corners or round.

Short run cards, 100+ decks, are printed on 350 gsm stock and can also be printed any size with square corners or round, with matte or gloss UV.

Can add foil stamp, spot UV, and a variety of other specialty touches for cards that are offset printed  These are usually for 500+ decks.

Offer custom printed tuck boxes for most of decks.  You are also welcome to send us packaging for decks such as tin boxes, drawstring bags, etc.  We can add printed booklets or instruction cards that can be accordion folded depending on the number of panels.  For decks that are packaged in a drawstring bag, we can add printed bag tags or tie charms to the ribbons, etc. "

 

China based;

http://www.makeplayingcards.com/promotional/personalized-tarot-cards.html aka MPC This company is getting great reviews by most people for quality and service & easy upload interface.  Also MPC is only POD offering gilded edge print option as well as different box options including Tarot size tins!:) so if you plan printing 50+ decks it's worth checking as they also offer affordable fulfillment service if you need to ship your decks worldwide to your costumers/backers for around 10-12$ per deck!:) Shipping may be an issue as it's not always traceable but as long as you are paying with paypal you are ok!:)

ETA; my 1st printed deck & mpc tin arrived & I like Big card size & good quality & shipping my only remarks is colors on 300gsm card stock are bit light so better use linen/other option?;) you can read my full review here!:) 

 

https://www.boardgamesmaker.com/ similar design & price as mpc only difference they offer more *game piece options!;)

http://www.printerstudio.com/ - aka PS affordable, easy upload and fast. Similar to MPC above but less cardstock & box options & more other items options. Card Colors may be less bright than original digital files. UPDATE by Lucky Card; just to add link for my review for their linen and plastic stock!:)) http://creativenlight.blogspot.ba/search?updated-min=2015-01-01T00:00:00-08:00&updated-max=2016-01-01T00:00:00-08:00&max-results=6 Note this was before their stock price rise significantly 2016 same as MPC that may be sister company?:) compared to US PODs so you may wish to consider TGC and DTC to be better option for US and worldwide?:) 

 

 

Canada: just find out about these!:) Order Your free Sample Book & Start your Art project here:

https://www.catprint.com Great Selection of different stock & finish options including my favorite Holographic prism effect!:) This is only printer I know offering this Holo & Magnet option!?:) Printers take notice This is How you present yourself! Artist You Need This!=D mini Sample Book is Best I’ve seen with over 40 different cardstock & finish options including Awesome selection of heavy card stock linen & Shimmer & Pearl paper as well as Stickers & Magnetic stock Definitely Perfect Choice for All Your Art Projects!:D I’m printing my Tarot deck limited edt with holo next choice between plastic (*untearable!:) Shimmering & Perl?:) will probably do test print of each moment I have my Art Completed!;D let me know if you would be interested in any of these *Super Sparkly limited edt?!;) also hope to see actual playing cardstock (aka black core) included as well as box & fulfillment option son so I can write full review & recommend this printer as Best (eco & animal friendly!;) to my 

https://www.newprint.ca/trading-cards-printing big selection of various promo items!:)

Australia: 

https://shop.eprintonline.com.au/game-decks/products/ big selection of printed items including cards & booklets With Effect also offering assistance with printer file preparation & demo deck prior to production a huge plus for self publishers full confidence before rolling forward into a full scale production order. Everything is print in house helping support eco awareness fair wages and local economy.

 

https://www.tmcards.com/playingcards-advance.php#formcontent

 

 

Europe; Note imo EU printers are great way to offer better price & faster shipping for EU orders!:)+save your costumers of extra import charges/VAT tax or whatever post is charging for international orders & everyone complains about!:D 

 

Belgium; https://www.makemygame.com/faq

  

France;  https://printeurope.fr/jeux-de-cartes-personnalises_en.html

 

Germany; Note I noticed plenty PoD in Germany have variety of box options including my favorite tins!:)

https://www.spielematerial.de/en/ this company have awesome selection of game parts & best tins I find in Europe!:) also their wikipage mention 320gsm 350gsm & 390gsm cardstock worth checking out!:) will update moment I know more!:)

http://spieleerfinden.de/wiki_en/index.php?title=Cards

 

https://www.quartettbar.de/Produkte/Spielkarten/Andere-Spielkartenkonzepte great selection of boxes including wood!:) 

https://www.piksieben.de/de/spielkarten/100-individuelle-spielkarten this have good poker & bridge size tin box & few larger sizes!:)

 

https://www.printerstudio.de/fotogeschenke/personalisierte-spielkarten.html printerstudio pod in Germany!:) recommended!^^ 

 

https://www.druckdatenloesungen.de/individuelle-spielkarten/

https://www.meinspiel.de/

https://www.spielkarten-druck.de/individuelle-spielkarten/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMItd2d8de04wIVyYbVCh0PvgsXEAAYASAAEgLaifD_BwE#tab-id-3 offer free test prints?;) 

https://yodagames.de/ 

https://www.bod.de/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI3vvorKq04wIVKRbTCh0-FgqOEAAYASAAEgJMNvD_BwE books!;) 

 

.

 

Italy; http://www.ludocards.com/ Update 19 jan 2024 Disclaimer last time I used this printer was 2021 & according to my personal expirience they were & still are Best Card Printer in Europe in spite of complicated file upload requirements & potential issues some people expirienced Please Keep in mind We Don't Have Much Options in Europe & Link me if you find better also check  https://www.trustpilot.com/ for more recent reviews & here is my from 2021!;)

Best printing price & Quality standards for good cardstock Cards (330gsm black core recommended!:)

Sturdy 2piece Box Full Print inside & Out with Metalic foil option & Gilded Edges!:D

Full Color Book Options!:D 

+drop ship service & ship worldwide!:) + you used to get free shipping if you ship All your decks at once to your home address you registered your acc!;)

it's my exclusive EU printer(: I was using drop shipping service from Germany at that time!;)

check out pic of Tarot decks LC printed for me here; https://photos.app.goo.gl/qZ6dZc6J49nUdTVf6

& read my full review here; http://creativenlight.blogspot.com/2019/03/ludocards-best-eu-based-pod-review.html

check their faq here; https://www.ludocards.com/faq

& quotes here; https://www.ludocards.com/quote/custom-cards (note

same page can also generate your required standard or customized card size & box & book preset/pdf template (Note:most printers use 3mm cut/bleed line & for standard Tarot size card preset for 7x12cm printed card +3mm bleed on each side would be around 76x126mm, but LC generator seems to work with 2mm & 74x124mm so you may wish to contact their costumer service to confirm exact card img size in pixel before printing!:) you can download templates I've used here; http://fav.me/dd30ioa but print drift is still possible (like with all printers here!) so avoid borders etc & I'll be not held responsible for any possible misprint resulting from these issues!;) also standard gamecrafter tarot template guidelines are fit & easy to convert to this ludocard Tarot size!:)
 

UK:
https://cardcreator.personalisedplayingcards.com/prices PoD based in UK & offer printing deck & free shipping for UK!:) worth checking out for UK orders 

 

https://generationpress.co.uk/ eco friendly company that printed Oak Ash & Thorn Tarot

https://www.playingcardspersonalised.co.uk/tarot-cards  

https://www.ivorygraphics.co.uk

 

https://aura-print.com/uk/custom-playing-card-printing  playing cards bookmarks & other prints!:)
 
https://thefoilprintingco.com/uk/metallic-foil-playing-card-printing only one in Europe offer foil options for single deck & slim aka bring card size cost is best for +100 decks will test it out for my next deck & provide detail review!:) also big selection of other promo prints such as booklets!:) 

 

https://www.pinksheep.co.uk/

& if you plan printing larger quantities here are some recommendations; 

Europe (the prices mentioned are rough guidelines and where received on inquiry)

• https://www.fabryka-kart.eu/en/ Happy to add this great Poland printer factory with long tradition certificates & awards in card industry they also offer all fancy add ons including: UV Gloss, Metallic Hot & Cold Stamping & Glitter & Gilded edges!:D & sturdy 2 piece slider & clam shell & wooden box options!:D & plenty of cardboard elements such as puzzle & other plastic & wood elements!;D minimum quote is 500 decks read my review here p.s it seems they printed larger gilded Shadowscapes Tarot as well!:D will add more info upon confirmation!;D Downside: only accept Bank Transfer payment option, hopefully will manage to talk them into paypal eventually!;)

•  http://www.cartamundi.com/de / Good quality & price but only if you only print cards there and the box and/or booklet print elsewhere. 1000 decks around 3,70 Euro per deck

• http://www.piatnik.com/ Perfect austrian quality, but also the most expensive one. 1000 decks plus box 6,13 Euro (additional costs not included), only decks without box 5,57 Euro.
   
• https://www.groels.nl/ Netherland
  
•    Hungary https://keskenynyomda.hu/en/printing/boardgame/ Thank You my deck creator friend for link & info provided here!;) Great web design with Enghlish & Germany language & plenty print option including luxury books & boxes as well as cards that are mentioned as board games not much info available without further inquery aside from minimum quote order is 500 decks & regarding printing techniques, they offer almost everything. Their portfolio includes matte and glossy UV varnish, cold foils in a wide color spectrum, metallic colors from the Pantone chart, embossed printing in any simple or metallic color, etc. However, they do not offer gilt edges. They can do any kind of custom packaging and will also assemble your product.
  
•  https://omegadruk.pl/kontakt.html Poland

  

World

http://expertplayingcard.com/#custom Playing Card Company, New York City, New York 10001 professional playing cards with foil & Embossing option 

 

http://www.gamblerswarehouse.com/ printer & fulfillment center in USA
  

www.guruplayingcards.com “GPCC printing company in partnership with one of the top most leading printer. Based out of Australia. The printing and shipping happens from China while the 100% handcrafted and lacquered decks are done in India. Produced 2 (poker) decks till now, both of which received rave reviews. Bharata Major Arcana tarot will be first tarot deck by this company. Given current customers are playing card collectors, quality of printing, card stock etc. is paramount, and rest assured, I take care of each production print personally. Don't offer print on demand and minimum print run is 600 decks. Offer any type of card size as well. Any other question, please feel free to ask. Regards, Sunish”

 

www.imageppm.com/ Recommended by Jay DeForest: Image Printing & Packaging is a company where you will deal directly with an English speaking print manager in China. print card decks, books, boxes and other items. minimum printing quote of 500, but the pricing is much better at 1000 units or more.  

 

https://www.jimiagency.net/ this dynamic duo is based in Korea & offering playing cards with holo effect!:)minimal order per 1design is 200 cards, they also offer bookmarks, postcards & much more so be sure to check out their web page!:)

 

http://jsmccarthy.com/ Personable and professional. 100% of all our electricity purchases are derived from wind power. 

https://legendsplayingcards.com/pages/custom

  

https://plaincards.com/ waiting for review! 

https://www.playingcards.ltd/About-us.html

http://www.printninja.com/printing-products/card-game-printing based in US & print in China, printing options include metallic n foil print!;)

 

https://shuffledink.com/ Formerly known as Quality Playing Cards, this company is a professional card printer. They do any size and number of cards, have a top notch art department, and the quality is exceptional. They do work internationally.

 

https://usplayingcard.com/about-us/

 

more info & good printer list here; http://www.jamesmathe.com/hitchhikers-guide-to-game-manufacturers/

  

 & if you decide to Print your books/box & other add ons separately here are some printers I find online!;)

books simple interface good quotes: https://ridero.eu/en

good quote for color books:  https://bookprinting.eu/?Sheet=Stitched%20brochures

best luxury book options: https://www.graspo.com/en/hardcover/

Books & Everything; https://www.pixartprinting.com/try-us-for-free/

Boxes: https://www.pack.ly/create/en/dieline-box/rollover-hinged-lid-box-standard

& if you are looking for easy alternative for Adobe illustrator to prepare your printer files check:

https://www.canva.com/ platform for designing custom decks, you can switch on bleed if you go to: File > Show print bleed. Then, when downloading the file, Select "PDF Print" file type (switch on crop marks and bleed) - this will give you a print ready file and avoid any artwork fix charges that may be incurred with respective print houses. 

 

 

also be sure to post us here what worked best for you?:)

 

All Best!

reall/Irena

Ludocards Best EU based POD review!:)

Warning; Selfpublishers Only! Following text may be to much to handle if you aren't one!:)

scroll down to see pictures of printed decks & boxes! Keep reading if you are in to *Print & Selfpublish your own deck & wish to know more about BEST EU POD I've find so far!:)) 

 

Update 19 jan 2024 Disclaimer last time I used this printer was 2021 & according to my personal expirience they were & still are Best Card Printer in Europe in spite of complicated file upload requirements & potential issues some people expirienced Please Keep in mind We Don't Have Much Options in Europe & Link me if you find better also check  https://www.trustpilot.com/ for more recent reviews!;) 

 

As promised here is my full review of EU (Italy) based Print on Demand company last used in 2022, 

official web page here; http://www.ludocards.com/

printing & shipping quotes here; https://www.ludocards.com/quote/custom-cards

& read all info at official faq page; https://www.ludocards.com/faq

Disclaimer; My English is Not Perfect & I will only review *services I used & all info presented here are just my opinion  according to experience I have by July 2021 feel free to agree or NOT & feel free to correct me if I'm wrong & if you have any doubt or questions about info presented here note me or best visit official web page & ask directly, with that said here is my review on ludocards POD

if you have any experience with POD especially as publisher (my fav are US based; thegamecrafter & drivethrucards & China; makeplayingcards & printerstudio) you can tell this web don't look similar & there is BIG DIFFERENCE how it works so I'll try sum most of its *perks in hope you'll find it useful deciding is this POD for you as there is plenty of HOW TO differences here that may require some time to get used to I'm testing upgraded ludocards interface & will update this review if needed!:)

first you'll notice minimalistic web & you create your acc by click on person icon in top right corner & fill your email & pass to create acc or log in if you already have one!^^

after log in there is more options available including Instant Quote you access by click on 1st icon:

here you pick specifications & quantity for each component you wish to personalize, review cost, & download templates:

then add to your cart & proceed to add next component accordingly if you plan to use booklet box etc: Side menu displays Total value & detail specifications of each component you add to your cart, I find it useful & wish there is weight/dimension data as well that would allow shipping cost calculation as it would be useful at this stage esp for kickstarter!:)

Note you can see significant price difference between prototype aka single design item & how production cost drop for every 5, 10, 20 etc units!:)

 

when you have all required components in your cart you can review & name your project!:)

for example here you can see my Ancient Lenormand Bridge size deck components quantity & cost

 & Next Extras is where you opt for File check (Recommended!:) & Test prints!:)

You can also add your remark for each component in Notes (: for example I included note I do not wish to ship to my home address & prefer to use drop shipping option for Ludocards to ship my decks directly to costumers worldwide but drop shipping option is not yet fully integrated!://

After proceeding to fill Billing & Shipping address you finally get to Checkout where you pick payment & dispatch option!:) Note EU VAT tax is calculated only if you are in EU!:D but be sure to check your country import regulations as you are likely to be charged import tax & fees if you are receiving big international parcel!:)

Your Order will be confirmed after payment & you can proceed to upload your required printer files for each component by click on person icon & My Orders Option:

Red Circle indicate action needed & green uploaded files you can access & review all details by click!:)

Scheduled dispatch is when your order is expected to ship but it will usually take bit longer depending on how well you are with tech part & preparing printer files so I advise placing your order when you have all files print ready also keep in mind pro printer will usually take around 2 to 3 months to print & ship big number of decks so anything less is better than average esp considering our crazy times!;)

back on topic;

"ludocards print service review & how it differs from standard POD we know (tgc/dtc/mpc/ps) & what you'll need to know to make it work for you;

1. Printing; ludocards will print *ANY number of cards & any size & there is no minimum number of decks you can print with ludocards!:) but more you print better your price per deck/box/book will be!:D & there is discount for larger quantities so that's good news for Selfpublishers!:) & whatever number of decks you decide to print you can ship it 2 ways;

2. Shipping, options;

A) by default ludocards will SHIP ALL your PRINTED DECKS AT ONCE TO YOUR HOME ADDRESS with FREE SHIPPING worldwide, or if you prefer;

B) DROP SHIPPING OPTION is supposed to allow you to ship your decks orders directly from printer to costumers worldwide all with tracking number & best available shipping provider at the moment I was told it was supposed to ship bi weekly, but it's not fully functional yet so in future hopefully!:)

 C) ship All your decks at once for free to fulfillment or pro shipping service like https://www.mbe.it/en or mailboxde.com that'll do further drop shipping job for you!:) read my full review here etc also keep in mind your order will ship in 1 big heavy pallet (unless you agree differently with your printer!;) so be sure pallet size & weight is within limit you/your storage provider can accept & handle!;)

back on topic ludocards ,,,

Most important & Main Reason i'm using this printer service because; ALL DECKS ARE PRINTED & SHIP FROM ITALY/EU SAVING YOUR EU COSTUMERS ANY EXTRA IMPORT CHARGES & POST COLLECTING FEES Great for ks esp as EU started taxing even small value parcels July 2021!:)

3. Creating your (publisher) account on ludocards is now simple!:D after that you can log in to your ludocards acc where you can check quotes & review your info & order details & upload print files interface here is greatly improved but may need some time to get used to!:)

4. Print file preparation aka; "How to set up your card images properly" instructions here: https://www.ludocards.com/instructions.pdf is tricky as you are expected to upload several separate pdf files (after you log in to your ludocards acc & click *Orders & *Open file list button) ;

1 pdf with all images of your cards front & backs saved as pages,

1 (or 2 pdf depending on your option) for box design (unless you opt for no box or blank/white box)

2 pdf for booklet cover & interior pages 

all with set with specific color profile at the moment Jul 2021 Fogra 39

I downloaded here: https://www.color.org/registry/Coated_Fogra39L_VIGC_300.xalter

& instructions how to use it here: https://helpx.adobe.com/photoshop/using/working-with-color-profiles.html

You start preparing your print files by inserting your deck specifications (mm or inch, card size & number of cards in deck & your box option!:) & downloading your auto generated templates here; https://www.ludocards.com/quote/custom-cards

Note; even it say: "will print any size" best to pick 1 offered preset or keep it within *normal EU sizes (aka your card size numbers should be whole cm & mm as it's easier to print precisely!:)

if it seem complicated in my experience ludocards have good print control & you will be contacted by costumer service if they notice any possible printing mistake/disaster!:P ;)

but just in case be aware of mistake I noticed on their template generator page;

*Card design instruction button will tell you so called *bleed area (aka part of your card img that is cut out in printing process!) is 2mm on each card side but imo it's more likely standard 3mm as mentioned in their instruction pdf (I've asked costumer service to check with their printer service before uploading my cards pdfs for print & got confirmed it's 3mm but card generator template is still working with 2mm, will update this review moment it's fixed!x,x)

so here is how you determine your digital image card size in pixel & template you need to work; *your printed card size in mm (i.e standard Tarot is 70x120mm) +3mm of bleed area to each side adds total of 6mm to each of this numbers = 76x126mm converted to pixel = 898x1488px by 300dpi within this size you can see template red line mark 3mm from each edge representing line where your cards are expected to be cut in printing process (aka bleed) & another blue line 3mm from that one representing so called *safe area you should place all important card text & elements you wish to be visible after printing in case print end up off center (3mm drift is considered acceptable by most standard printers!:) you can download Tarot card 7x12cm & fitting 80 card special 2 piece sturdy box templates I've used here; http://fav.me/dd30ioa

Tip; be sure to remove that guideline template before saving/exporting your img or pdf!:)

you can also use Scribus to prepare your pdf for print!:)

also if you already printed your cards with gamecrafter /other standard printer that use 900x1500px Tarot size template you can drop these img over ludocards 898x1488px & 300dpi template (i.e in gimp:) & export as; png img or single pdf I find guidelines are compatible!:)

& if your pdf files are to many MB or you wish to fix cmyk specifications you can open your pdf in Scribus & export as pdf with these settings; (see attach img!) Untested Not Advised!:D

Note ignore numbers from last capture here idk how to delete lol!:)

& that's it for cards!:)

same goes for box design (download template, export your box design as pdf & upload to your acc!) 

& booklet & other components as well!:) Note: ludocards recommended box size is card size +2mm at sides I would say it's a tight fit for Tarot size deck rigid box & would recommend minimum 3 to 4mm for better fit!:)

5) Print quality; plenty of card boxes & book options make this Best EU Based POD at the moment!

default card specifications options all have rounded corners & print on *special 330 gr/sqm casino quality triplex paper (i'm told this is 330 gsm black core silk smooth paper) assuring zero transparency. Easy to shuffle and resistant to worn-out. You can also chose 350gsm whiteboard that seems to be popular Kickstarter option or 300gsm if you prefer thinner game cardstock, 

ludocards got 320gsm Black Core linen cardstock (aka canvas like texture I prefer!:) &  matt Gold Gilded Edges I printed my cards July 2021 & must say it turned Perfect ! !! I luv Everything ! ! ! Quality of ludocards sturdy box with Matt finish linen cards & booklet is Top my fav & recommended!^^ =D Note: Gilded edges option is still under development & may show some imperfections such as missing white & darker chips & bits around card edges!:)

ludocards offers plenty of card sizes & shape options including round cards as well as special materials including PVC & special Metalic effects gold/silver foil prints are available, contact costumer service for any *special request quote  HERE. 

 

You can also request print proofs & digital file check service as well as designer service or sample deck, all info here; http://www.ludocards.com/faq.php

best part; Ludocards.com is an eco-friendly company

Ludocards entire operations are powered by solar energy & printing procedure follows the strict standards of environmental friendly codes: the papers are not only premium quality but also CE certified and rigorously selected and supplied by European paper mills; the inks for printing are of food level; nearly half of our production is artisan process that is made with hands. We try our very best to look after our planet earth.

6) Production Time; How quickly will ludocards print your deck & when you'll receive your order?

depends on timing of your order (i.e it will take longer if you start this *printing adventure before holiday!:) as well as how good your *print ready pdfs are!:)

In my experience depending on quantity & specification of your order ludocards production time is around 30 to 60 days from payment to ship ready! Express services is provided at extra cost. Processing time don't include time required for delivery, which varies from 1 to 5 working days subject to destinations. Ludocards is not responsible for any delays caused by the couriers. Delivery date for your products will be delayed accordingly at your own responsibility for any delays in production caused by the errors in file formats, incomplete file submission and any other issues resulting in “not ready to print” files.

so if you are planing kickstarter or other project with fixed timeline best to confirm with costumer service all your files are *print ready BEFORE placing your Order as that may save you unexpected delays.

 

I'm Happy with my ludocards Bridge & Tarot size decks print quality & fast Shipping service

my only remark/wishlist is;

1. fix card size template generator! (bleed area is 3mm not 2mm!)

2. parcel weight & drop shipping cost calculation integration
2. ludocardsStore that will allow people to order my decks directly from printer

4. better Status Update & communication solution as I did not received any status update after placing my order & was mailing costumer service with standard questions: "when will you print?" , "are Gilded edges completed?" , " when will my Order ship?" etc it would help if there are automated messages that will let you know when your cards, booklet, box print assemble ship etc!:) so I don't need to bother asking!:)

& with this I conclude my review!:) Congrats for reading this long*cough*hopefully not too boring* text!;D  hope you find it useful!^^:) here is your eye candy pic gallery of my printed Tarot size decks & boxes!^^:) & if you need more than pretty pic check this Awesome youtube review!:)

& table review of Print on Demand Companies I've used with my opinion on quality of their service;

Tarot deck 80c & firm box!:)	ludocards	gamecrafter	drivethrucards	printerstudio	makeplayingcards
print cost & quality & extra options	Best production price & Quality +extra options!:) Gilded Edges Metalic Print Option Full Color Book Sturdy Box!:D	standard card quality linen & UV & Holo & Transparent card stock option +extra box & other option	standard card quality linen stock option & tuckbox % go up by quantity!:)	same as mpc - effects & box options!x.x	standard + best selection of card stock options & effect including holo & gold edges etc+ box options including Tarot size tins!:) ok for printing +100 decks!:) too expensive otherwise!x,x
discount @	+1 decks!:)	100 decks!		best for printing 60 Tarot decks & up!;)
shipping cost & quality	fastest shipping!:) & FREE SHIPPING to your home address but only if you ship all your printed decks at once!:) not working drop shipping!x.x see here; https://www.ludocards.com/quote.php	Ok for US & International extra options UPS not perfect!x,x	fast & ok for US & your home address, Not for International!x,x check it here https://support.drivethrucards.com/hc/en-us/articles/207347643-Estimated-Shipping-Costs-For-Printed-Products	ok same as mpc	ok pricing & service, charge extra for *insurance BUT tracking is lacking & your only protection is paypal https://www.makeplayingcards.com/shipping.aspx
production time	15/60 days	3/15 days	5/7 days		5/12 days
shipping time	Best!;)	ok	ok	ok	ok
traffic/exposure	no shop option yet!	Best	ok		not much
costumer service	ok & helpful!:)	annoying & not always helpful?;)	Best & my fav!:) Brian is King!:)	ok & helpful!:)	ok when you are asking about ordering info, not ok if lost parcel /other issue