Are you a Magic: The Gathering (MTG) player looking to improve your gameplay or test out new deck ideas without having to purchase expensive cards? Then printing MTG proxies may be the solution for you! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to create high-quality proxies that are virtually identical to the real thing.
What are MTG Proxies?
MTG proxies are replica cards that are created using digital images of existing cards. They’re often used by players who want to test out new deck ideas or play casually without worrying about damaging or losing valuable cards.
Why Print MTG Proxies?
Printing MTG proxies can be a cost-effective way to test out new deck ideas or play casually without worrying about damaging or losing valuable cards. It can also allow players to experiment with different cards and strategies that they might not be able to afford otherwise.
Materials Needed to Print MTG Proxies
To print MTG proxies, you’ll need a few basic materials:
- A computer with image editing software (such as Photoshop or GIMP)
- High-quality printer
- Cardstock paper
- Cutting tool (such as a paper cutter or scissors)
- Double-sided tape
Choosing the Right Images
When creating MTG proxies, it’s important to choose high-quality images that accurately represent the original card. You can find these images online by searching for the card’s name and set number.
Editing the Images
Once you’ve found the images you want to use, you’ll need to edit them to make sure they’re the right size and have the correct color balance. You can use image editing software to adjust the brightness, contrast, and saturation levels to ensure the best possible results.
Printing the Proxies
Setting Up Your Printer
Before printing your proxies, you’ll need to make sure your printer is set up correctly. This may involve adjusting the printer settings, such as paper type and print quality, to ensure the best possible results.
Printing the Images
Once your printer is set up, you can start printing the images onto cardstock paper. It’s important to print the images at the correct size and resolution to ensure they look as close to the original card as possible.
Cutting the Proxies
After the images are printed, you’ll need to cut them out using a cutting tool such as a paper cutter or scissors. It’s important to be as precise as possible when cutting the proxies to ensure they’re the correct size and shape.
Assembling the Proxies
Finally, you’ll need to assemble the proxies by using double-sided tape to attach the front and back of the cardstock together. This will create a card that looks and feels like a real MTG card.
Tips for Creating High-Quality MTG Proxies
To ensure that your MTG proxies look as close to the original card as possible, there are several tips and tricks you can follow:
- Use high-quality images: Make sure the images you use are clear and accurately represent the original card.
- Adjust the color balance, brightness, and contrast levels: This can help ensure that the colors on your proxies match those of the original card.
- Print at the correct size and resolution: Printing at the correct size and resolution will help ensure that your proxies look like actual MTG cards.
- Be precise when cutting and assembling the proxies: Taking your time when cutting and assembling your proxies will help ensure that they are the correct size and shape.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
It’s important to note that MTG proxies are not legal to use in official tournaments. They are intended for casual play and testing purposes only. Additionally, it is illegal to sell proxies that infringe on the copyrights and trademarks of the original cards.
However, you may be able to sell custom-designed proxies that do not use any copyrighted material. If you’re unsure about the legal and ethical implications of printing MTG proxies, it’s always a good idea to do your research and consult with a legal professional if necessary.
Conclusion
Printing MTG proxies can be a fun and cost-effective way to enhance your gameplay and experiment with new deck ideas. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article and using the tips and tricks provided, you can create high-quality proxies that are virtually indistinguishable from the real thing. Just remember to use high-quality images, adjust the color balance and contrast levels, and print at the correct size and resolution. With a little practice, you’ll be able to create custom proxies that are sure to impress your fellow players.
FAQs:
Are MTG proxies legal to use in tournaments?
No, MTG proxies are not legal to use in official tournaments. They are only intended for casual play or testing purposes.
How do I make sure my proxies look like the original card?
To ensure your proxies look like the original card, it’s important to use high-quality images and adjust the color balance, brightness, and contrast levels as needed. It’s also important to print the images at the correct size and resolution and to be precise when cutting and assembling the proxies.
Can I sell MTG proxies?
It is illegal to sell MTG proxies that infringe on the copyrights and trademarks of the original cards. However, you may be able to sell proxies that are custom-designed and do not use any copyrighted material.