The Ultimate Guide to Playing Card Dimensions, And Types
Whether you’re designing a custom card game, promotional deck, or educational flashcards, understanding playing card dimensions and printing specifications is critical. This guide breaks down standard sizes, materials, design tips, and industry best practices to ensure your project succeeds—no matter the use case.
Why Playing Card Dimensions Matter
Playing cards are designed for usability. Their size impacts:
- Handling: Easy shuffling and holding multiple cards.
- Durability: Thicker materials resist wear.
- Aesthetics: Proportions affect visual appeal.
- Compatibility: Fitting into standard boxes or game setups.
Standard Playing Card Sizes
Below are the most common playing card types and their dimensions:
| Card Type | Dimensions (Inches) | Dimensions (mm) | Bleed | Margin | Rounded Corners |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard/Poker | 2.5″ x 3.5″ | 63.5 x 88.9 | 0.125″ (3.175mm) | 0.2″ (5mm) | 3.5mm radius |
| Bridge/Slim | 2.25″ x 3.5″ | 57.15 x 88.9 | 0.125″ | 0.2″ | 3.5mm radius |
| Tarot/Oracle | 2.75″ x 4.75″ | 69.85 x 120.65 | 0.125″ | 0.2″ | 6mm radius |
| Large Cards | 3.5″ x 5.75″ | 88.9 x 146.05 | 0.125″ | 0.2″ | 6mm radius |
| Miniature | 1.75″ x 2.5″ | 44.45 x 63.5 | 0.125″ | 0.2″ | 3mm radius |
Key Printing Specifications
1. Bleed and Margins
- Bleed: Extra space (typically 0.125″ or 3mm) added to edges to prevent white borders after trimming.
- Margin: A 0.2″ (5mm) “safe zone” where no critical text or artwork should go.
2. Materials and Thickness
Paper Options:
- 120lb silk cover: Standard choice (≈0.015″ thick).
- Recycled paper: Eco-friendly option.
- Plastic: Waterproof but less eco-friendly.
Thickness:
- Ranges from 0.2mm (paper) to 0.3mm (plastic).
3. Finishes
- Matte/Gloss Lamination: Protects against scratches.
- Rounded Corners: Prevents fraying (standard: 3.5mm, tarot: 6mm).
- Specialty Effects: Foil stamping, embossing, or spot UV (adds premium appeal).
Design Best Practices
✔ Use Vector Graphics: Ensures crisp edges for text and logos. ✔ Test Readability: Fonts should be legible at the card’s size. ✔ Avoid Critical Elements Near Edges: Keep text/icons within the margin. ✔ Color Mode: Design in CMYK for accurate printing.
Common Use Cases
| Card Type | Best For | Deck Size |
| Standard/Poker | Poker, blackjack, promotions | 52–54 cards |
| Bridge | Bridge, cardistry, compact hands | 52–54 cards |
| Tarot | Fortune-telling, art collections | 78 cards |
| Large Cards | Children’s games, flashcards | 30–50 cards |
| Miniature | Travel games, board games | 50–60 cards |
Card Box Dimensions
Always design boxes slightly larger than the cards:
| Card Type | Box Dimensions (Inches) |
| Standard/Poker | 2.6″ x 3.6″ x 0.75″ |
| Bridge | 2.35″ x 3.6″ x 0.75″ |
| Tarot | 2.85″ x 4.85″ x 1.25″ |
| Large Cards | 3.6″ x 5.85″ x 1″ |
| Miniature | 1.85″ x 2.6″ x 0.75″ |
FAQs
Q: Can I customize card sizes beyond standard dimensions?
A: Yes, but ensure the size remains practical for shuffling and handling.
Q: What happens if I ignore bleed requirements?
A: Risk uneven borders or cropped artwork after trimming.
Q: How thick should playing cards be?
A: Aim for 0.25–0.3mm for durability. Test samples before bulk printing.
Q: Are rounded corners necessary?
A: Not mandatory, but they improve longevity and aesthetics.
Step-by-Step Printing Checklist
✅ Finalize card dimensions and use case (e.g., tarot vs. poker).
✅ Design artwork with bleed, margins, and CMYK color mode.
✅ Choose material (paper/plastic) and finishes (gloss, foil).
✅ Order a sample deck to test quality.
✅ Adjust designs if needed and proceed with bulk printing.
Conclusion
Choosing the right playing card dimensions ensures your deck is functional, visually appealing, and compatible with standard accessories. By following bleed/margin guidelines and selecting materials wisely, you’ll create professional-grade cards suited to games, promotions, or collectibles. Always test samples before finalizing your design to avoid costly errors.
