So you’ve designed the perfect custom card for Magic, Lorcana, or Star Wars Unlimited. It’s got killer art, cool abilities, and just the right level of brokenness to make your playgroup groan. But now you need to print it—and not just on your average office paper that flops around like a wet noodle.
Let’s talk cardstock-worthy printers that’ll bring your creations to life like a planeswalker ultimate. We’ll even sprinkle in some cardstock recommendations, affiliate links (so we can keep the ink flowing), and helpful tips.
Why Invest in a Good Printer for TCG/CCG Cards?
Printing custom cards isn’t just about putting ink on paper. You need:
- Thicker cardstock (at least 200–300 gsm) to mimic real cards
- Accurate colors to match your vision (or at least not make Yoda look like a broccoli)
- Borderless printing so your cards look clean and sharp
- Duplex support if you’re printing both sides (card back included)
- Durability, because sleeve shuffling is a brutal sport
Whether you’re prototyping a custom set or just flexing a few memes at your next draft, the right printer makes all the difference.
Top Printers for Custom Cards
Here’s a handy comparison table to help you choose your champion:
| Printer | Type | Max Paper Weight | Ink Type | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canon PIXMA Pro-200 | Inkjet | ~380 gsm | Dye | Bright, vibrant prints | $$$ |
| Epson SureColor P700 | Inkjet | ~400 gsm | Pigment | Long-lasting, pro-level quality | $$$$ |
| Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-300 | Inkjet | ~380 gsm | Pigment | Sharp blacks and contrast-heavy art | $$$$ |
| Canon PIXMA TS9521C | Inkjet | ~300 gsm | Dye | Budget creative projects | $$ |
| Epson EcoTank ET-8550 | Inkjet | ~300 gsm | Dye | Budget-friendly, ink-saving | $$$ |
Pro Tip: Pigment ink lasts longer and is more water-resistant. Dye ink pops more but may fade faster—kind of like a legendary creature without indestructible.
🛒 Canon PIXMA Pro-200 on Amazon
🛒 Epson P700 on Amazon
🛒 Canon PRO-300 on Amazon
🛒 PIXMA TS9521C on Amazon
🛒 Epson ET-8550 on Amazon | Epson ET-8550 on bol.com
Card Stock Recommendations (AKA What to Feed Your Printer)
Your inkjet printer is only half the equation. Bad paper = bad results, no matter how good the hardware. Here are some solid options:
Neenah 110 lb Cover or Index (~200–270 gsm)
- Available in smooth matte finishes
- Thick and compatible with most inkjets
- Good balance between pro feel and price
🛒 Buy on Amazon
Epson Premium Presentation Paper Matte (~170 gsm)
- Designed for high-res graphics
- Slightly thinner but extremely crisp
- Great for double-sided printing
🛒 Buy on Amazon
Canon Pro Platinum Photo Paper (~300 gsm)
- Glossy finish
- Amazing for colorful alt-art cards
- Better for single-sided printing
🛒 Buy on Amazon | Buy on bol.com
Springhill White Cardstock 110 lb (~199 gsm)
- Affordable and widely available
- Compatible with both inkjet and laser printers
- Great for prototyping and casual play
🛒 Buy on Amazon
Final Tips and Tricks
- Always test print on regular paper before burning through your good stuff.
- Use a manual feed tray if printing thicker stock—it’s less prone to jamming than auto feeders.
- Let ink dry overnight before sleeving to avoid smudges (your cards deserve beauty sleep).
- Consider laminating or sleeving after printing for longer life.
In Conclusion: Sleeves Up!
Creating your own custom cards is already awesome—but printing them on quality stock with a capable printer? That’s next-level TCG wizardry. With one of these trusty machines and a ream of the right paper, you’ll be summoning slick custom cards that could fool a tournament judge (but don’t do that—we like fair play)
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