How to Print Proxy MTG Cards for Kitchen Table Magic

For individuals looking to print Magic: The Gathering (MTG) proxies with minimal hassle and high-quality results, utilizing an online service such as PrintMTG emerges as the most straightforward approach. PrintMTG distinguishes itself by offering robust tools that streamline the MTG printing proxies process. 

One of the service’s standout features is the ability to upload an entire decklist directly to their platform, allowing for the efficient printing of a complete set of proxies in one go. This functionality not only saves time but also ensures that players can quickly acquire the cards they need for playtesting or casual games.

PrintMTG is reputed for its high-quality printing capabilities, delivering proxies with exceptional color fidelity and resolution that closely mimic the original MTG cards. The attention to detail extends to the physical properties of the proxies as well, with the cards mirroring the size and weight of official MTG cards, thus providing a seamless shuffle and play experience. This level of quality is especially appreciated among players who value the authenticity of their playing cards, whether for personal enjoyment or to maintain the aesthetic consistency of their decks during casual play sessions.

In addition to its printing services, PrintMTG caters to design-minded individuals by offering customizable templates. These templates are designed to be user-friendly, enabling users to create their own custom Magic: The Gathering cards with ease. Whether players are looking to experiment with new card designs, create tokens, or produce unique proxies for their decks, online templates provide a flexible and creative outlet for personal expression within the game.

Another significant advantage of using PrintMTG is their prompt production and shipping process. Customers can expect their printed proxies to be processed, printed, and shipped swiftly, minimizing the wait time between ordering and receiving their cards. This efficiency is particularly beneficial for players who need their proxies in a timely manner, whether for an upcoming game night or as part of their deck-building process.

Printing Proxy Cards at Home

Printing proxy Magic: The Gathering (MTG) cards involves a few key steps to create high-quality replicas of existing cards for casual play. Here’s a summary of the process:

  1. Selecting Your Cards: Use online resources to find and choose the specific MTG cards you want to proxy. Websites dedicated to MTG proxies allow you to search by card name or browse by set to find the cards you need​​.
  2. Materials Needed: Before you start, you’ll need a few basic materials such as a computer with image editing software (e.g., Photoshop or GIMP), a high-quality printer, cardstock paper, a cutting tool (like a paper cutter or scissors), and double-sided tape​​.
  3. Creating and Editing Images: Choose high-quality images of the cards you wish to proxy. It’s crucial to use images that accurately represent the original card. You may need to edit these images to ensure they’re the right size and color balance using image editing software​​.
  4. Printing Your Proxies: Set up your printer to ensure high-quality prints, usually by selecting cardstock as the paper type and choosing high or photo quality settings. It’s recommended to do a test print on regular paper first to check for color accuracy and alignment​​​​.
  5. Cutting and Assembling: After printing, use a sharp cutting tool for precision and then assemble your proxies by attaching the front and back of the cardstock together with double-sided tape. For a more authentic feel, sleeve your proxies, placing a basic land or common card behind the proxy in the sleeve for rigidity​​.
  6. Other  Considerations: It’s important to note that MTG proxies are for casual play only and not for use in official tournaments. 

Final Thoughts

Proxy cards in Magic: The Gathering (MTG) serve as a canvas for creativity and personalization, enabling players to tailor their decks with unique and custom designs. This aspect of proxy use is especially appreciated in casual play environments, such as kitchen table Magic, where the emphasis is on fun and inclusivity rather than strict adherence to official tournament rules. Through proxies, players can express themselves by altering the artwork or creating completely new designs for cards, thereby making their decks more personalized and reflective of their individual style. This practice not only enhances the visual appeal of the game but also fosters a more welcoming and diverse community atmosphere, where the focus is on enjoyment and creative expression.