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How To Make MTG Proxies?

January 16, 2023 · Your Playmat
How To Make MTG Proxies

Original Yu-Gi-Oh!, Pokemon and Magic: The Gathering cards are among the best in design and color schemes. Many players are trying to improve their game skills and hone new mechanics. New mechanics and monster bundles need to try new cards constantly. Other players just like the feeling of opening new card boosters.

But such cards may be too expensive for updating the collection. And these original cards can cut your budget a lot. Obviously, it’s not a reason to stop using trading cards.

But is there any solution to this problem? Spoiler - Yes! And we can help you with it!

In this case, you can use proxy Magic: The Gathering cards. These cards differ from fakes because the proxy is often modified. Such cards are made of cardboard or other materials. And also, you can change the states of characters.

Our article will tell you how to make proxy cards properly. We will also tell you about the alternatives to proxy cards so that you can always update your collection.

Gather Your Materials And Find The Card Artwork

To make high-quality MTG proxies, you will need to gather the following materials:

  • A high-quality printer;
  • Cardstock paper (preferably with a glossy finish);
  • A paper cutter or straight edge and a sharp blade;
  • A template of a real magic card (to ensure that the size and placement of the artwork and text is accurate);
  • Optionally, a clear spray sealer or laminating sheets. It gives the proxies a more authentic feel;
  • Optionally, foil cardstock or a foil transfer sheet to give the proxies a foil backing.

To find the card artwork for your proxies, you can try the following methods:

  • Use the official MTG Card Archive Image Gallery. It contains high-resolution images of all Magic cards in English;
  • Search online for fan-made scans or recreations of Magic cards. Just be aware that the quality of these images may vary, and they may not be perfectly accurate;
  • If you cannot find a suitable image of Magic: The Gathering card you want to proxy, try creating your artwork. Use image editing software like Photoshop. Just be sure not to use any copyrighted material without permission.

Create The Proxy Template

To create a template for Magic: The Gathering proxies, you will need to do the following:

  1. Find a real Magic card that you want to use as a template. You can use any card as long as it is the same size as a regular Magic card (2.5 inches by 3.5 inches);
  2. Scan or photograph the front and back of the card. Make sure that the image is high-resolution. And that the size and placement of the artwork and text are accurate;
  3. Using a photo, adjust the contrast and brightness to ensure the image is clear and easy to read;
  4. Use image editing software like Photoshop to create a blank card template. You can create a new layer on the scanned or photographed image. And using the paint bucket tool, fill in the areas where the artwork and text will go;
  5. Save the template as a high-resolution image file. Then you can print it out and use it as a guide when creating your magic proxies;
  6. You can repeat this process for each card that you want to proxy. 

Or, if you don't have the card, you can use:

  • The official Magic: The Gathering website. It has a Card Image Gallery that contains images of all Magic cards. You can use these images as a template;
  • Online ready-made templates or recreations of Magic cards. Just be aware that the quality of these templates may vary, and they may not be perfectly accurate.

Add The Card Artwork And Information To The Template

To add the card artwork and information to the template for the MTG proxy, you will need to do the following:

  1. Open the template in image editing software like Photoshop;
  2. Find an image of the card artwork that you want to use;
  3. Use the "Place" or "Import" function in your image editing software to add the card artwork to the template;
  4. Use the text tool to add the card's name, type, and a text box to the template. Be sure to use the correct font and formatting to match the real Magic card;
  5. Use the clone tool or the brush tool to add any other details or symbols to the template. It can be the mana cost, power and toughness;
  6. Save the completed template as a high-resolution image file;
  7. Now you can print it and play with it.

Print And Cut The Proxies

To print and cut the Magic: The Gathering proxies, you will need to go through the next steps:

  1. Print the completed proxy templates onto cardstock paper using a high-quality printer. Ensure that the size and placement of the artwork and text are the same as on the original card;
  2. Use a paper cutter, a straight edge, and a sharp blade to cut out the cards carefully. Be sure to cut accurately to avoid rough edges;
  3. Use a clear spray sealer or laminating sheets to give the proxies a glossy finish and a more authentic feel (optional step);
  4. Print the back of the card onto foil cardstock or use a foil transfer sheet to give the proxies a foil backing (optional step);
  5. When you finish, you should have a set of high-quality Magic: The Gathering proxies. They are ready to use in casual games with friends. Just be sure not to use them in any official tournaments or events.

Consider The Legalities Of Making And Using MTG Proxies

It is important to consider the legalities of making and using MTG proxies. It may be tempting to create copies of rare or expensive cards. But it is vital to remember that it is illegal to reproduce copyrighted material. For this, you should have permission.

Also, proxies are generally not allowed in official Magic: The Gathering tournaments. The MTG Tournament states, "Proxy cards are illegal in tournaments. A proxy card is a card that is not a genuine Magic card but is intended to represent one".

But it is generally acceptable to use proxies in casual games with friends. It's because everyone involved knows they are not Magic cards. Just be sure not to use them in any official tournaments or events.

TIP! If you still decide to make MTG proxy cards, you should do the following:

  • Please state on your card that this material is for entertainment purposes. Also, note that this card is not for sale;
  • You can also remove the trademarks of the manufacturer's company. And the names of the characters can be changed slightly. But, even in this case, you can't sell these cards. It’s because the basic idea and design still belong to Wizards of the Coast.

Tips For Making High-Quality MTG Proxies

high quality mtg proxies

Here are some tips for making high-quality Magic: The Gathering proxies:

  • Use a high-quality printer and cardstock paper. This will ensure that the colors on the proxies are vibrant and the cards are sturdy;
  • Use a template from a real Magic card to ensure that the size and placement of the artwork and text are accurate;
  • Use a glossy finish to make the proxies feel more like real cards. You can achieve it by using a clear spray sealer or laminating the cards;
  • Use a foil backing to make the magic proxies more difficult to distinguish from real cards. For this, print the front of the card on regular cardstock and the back on foil cardstock or use a foil transfer sheet;
  • Take your time and be precise when cutting out the cards. A paper cutter, straight edge, and sharp blade will give you the best results;
  • Consider using holographic or rainbow foil to make your proxies even more convincing.

Proxies can be useful for testing decks or playing casual games with friends.

Alternatives To Making Your Own MTG Proxies

There are several alternatives to making your Magic: The Gathering (MTG) proxies:

  1. Buy pre-made proxies. Some companies or individuals offer pre-made MTG proxies for sale. These can be more expensive than making your own, but they can also be of higher quality;
  2. Take advantage of our services and create your own customized trading cards. With the help of such services, you can skip all the hard work and trust the professionals. To create a card, you just need to tell them about your wishes and get the finished product;
  3. Use online proxy generators. Various online tools allow you to create custom magic proxies. You can do it by entering the card details and uploading an image. These are usually free to use, but the quality may not be as good as self-printed or pre-made proxies;
  4. Use placeholder cards. Instead of using proxies, some players choose to use placeholder cards in their decks. These can be basic land cards or other common cards. They are easily recognizable and do not affect gameplay;
  5. Use digital versions. You can use some online platforms offering digital versions of cards. You can use those cards in place of physical copies. It can be Magic: The Gathering Arena.

It's important to note that proxies are not legal in most organized play. You can't use them in tournaments. And using them may be cheating by some players.

Pros And Cons Of Using MTG Proxies In Play

mtg proxy frog

There are pros and cons to using Magic: The Gathering (MTG) proxies in play.

Pros:

  • Cost. Proxies can be much cheaper than purchasing actual cards. It's especially for rare or hard-to-find cards;
  • Accessibility. Proxies can allow players to use cards they may not otherwise have access to;
  • Customization. Making MTG proxies can be customized with alternate art or personal touches. It allows players to make their decks more unique.

Cons:

  • Legality. Magic proxies are not legal in most organized play, such as tournaments;
  • Authenticity. Using proxies can be seen as cheating by some players. It's because it allows players to use cards that they do not physically own;
  • Quality. Proxies may not be of the same quality as actual cards and may not shuffle or handle them as well;
  • Collation. Proxies can be harder to distinguish from actual cards. It can lead to confusion during play.

Using proxies is a personal decision that each player must make for themselves. It's important to be aware of the potential drawbacks. And consider whether the benefits outweigh them.

How To Keep Your MTG Proxy Cards Safe?

It doesn't matter which card game you prefer. You can play MTG, Pokemon, Yu-Gi-Oh! or another card game. But all cards need some care. This is because the main material of a card, over time:

  • Exfoliates;
  • Fades;
  • Gets damaged.

In this case, you need to find a great solution to take care of your cards.

Here are a few suggestions for keeping your proxy and original magic cards safe:

  1. Use card sleeves. Card sleeves are protective plastic covers that fit over your cards. They help to keep them in good condition. You can use regular card sleeves for your original cards and clear card sleeves for your proxies so they can still be easily distinguished;
  2. If you want an extra method of protection, use double card sleeves. This method will completely cut the getting of dust and dirt on the card;
  3. Use a deck box. A deck box is a container designed to hold and protect Magic cards. You can store your original cards and proxies in separate deck boxes to keep them organized and safe;
  4. Handle the cards gently. Avoid bending, creasing, or otherwise damaging your cards. Be especially careful with your proxies, as they are more prone to wear and tear than real Magic cards;
  5. Store the cards in a cool, dry place. Extreme temperatures and humidity can damage your cards over time. A cool, dry place like a closet or drawer is the best place to store your cards;
  6. Keep the cards away from food and drink. Accidentally spilling food or drink on your cards can ruin them. Make sure to keep your MTG proxy cards away from any potential sources of mess or spills.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your cards safe and in good condition.

Bottom Line

As you can see, creating magic proxy cards for the MTG universe is a simple process. But even such a simple task may need some skill and knowledge.

Before you make proxy cards, make sure:

  • You have all the necessary materials for the process;
  • Your cards do not infringe on copyright.

Only after that can you start the procedure.

Before using magic proxy cards, ensure that other players are willing to play with such cards. This is because proxy cards can break the game's rules and go against fair use.

FAQ

Is It Expensive To Make An MTG Proxy Card? 

The cost of making a proxy Magic: The Gathering (MTG) card can vary. It depends on the method used and the materials needed. Some players choose to print their proxies using cardstock and a printer. At the same time, others may buy pre-made proxies from a third party.

Where Can I Buy MTG Proxy Cards?

There are various places online where you can buy MTG proxy cards. It includes forums and social media groups dedicated to the topic. It's worth noting that the legality of purchasing and using proxies can vary by region. Be sure to check the laws in your area before proceeding.

Can I Sell Proxy MTG Cards?

It is generally not legal to sell proxies. It's because they are not official Magic: The Gathering cards. And they don't have a license from Wizards of the Coast.

Is There A Tool For Making MTG Proxy Cards?

Yes. You can order a service for creating proxy cards on the Internet. You can also find ready-made proxy cards on the Internet. After that, you can print them on the printer. In this case, you will spend the least money and effort on creating customized MTG cards.

How To Print MTG Proxies?

To print proxy cards, you must:

  • Collect the necessary materials. It can be special paper, printer and paper cutter;
  • Find a card template;
  • Create a card;
  • Print the card on a printer.

Are MTG Proxies Illegal?

Making Magic: The Gathering proxies for personal use with friends is not against the law. But you can't use proxies in official competitions and events. Also, you can't sell these cards as they violate the copyright.