Artist Trading Cards

I have a subscription to Family Fun magazine, and we truly enjoy it.  In the last issue I came across an article about Artist Trading Cards.  Their site shares ideas for crayon crafts, painting projects and more.  I was hooked.  Imagine the possibilities!

There are only two rules:
1.)  They must measure 2.5 x 3.5 inches
2.)  They must be traded or given, never sold.

That's it.  Everything and anything else is up to you, the artist.  You may use whichever medium you wish, whichever subject, any size, any color.

Each is an original work of art.  It's a great way to experiment.  It's the perfect way to discover new ideas from fellow artists.  Some ideas include:
paint
collage
stamps
crayon
photography

The idea started way back in 1987 in Zürich, Switzerland by artist M. Vänci Stirnemann.  I would've loved the idea at age sixteen!  I also had so much more time back then.

Mirkwood Design shares a template for an envelope to neatly keep your trading cards.  They also share a template page that shows how to get the most cards from an 8.5 x 11 inch paper.

There are several publications about the subject, full of ideas.  You can even purchase your artist cards precut.  Remember, anything is fine.  Only be sure it's somewhat sturdy.  Card stock from your local craft store is perfect.

Check out these stamps from 7 Gypsies.  These are an inspiration for an amazing collage!

And this photo display is such a clever way to share your favorites.

Streaming through so many photos on the world wide web fills me with anticipation to make more trading cards.  You can be poetic, inspirational, dare I say political, silly, clever, anything your little heart desires.  Just cut out some paper and try it.

Here are some examples of our first cards (we've just begun):

Some creative inspiration from the web:



ORIGAMI!!!



Lets Create, friends!  Have fun!