How to Make Your Own Trading Cards

Create custom trading cards with your favorite characters, pets, or friends using cardstock and markers.

1. Cut your cards to size. Use your ruler to measure rectangles that are 2.5 inches wide by 3.5 inches tall on your cardstock. This is the same size as real trading cards! Draw light pencil lines, then cut along them. Make as many blank cards as you want to create.
2. Plan your card design. Decide what goes on the front: a drawing, a photo, or a magazine cutout of your subject. The front should have the name of your character or person. Think about what will go on the back too - stats, fun facts, or special powers!
3. Create the front of your card. Draw your character or glue on a photo in the top two-thirds of the card. Leave space at the bottom for the name. Use your best coloring and make it bright and eye-catching. Write the name clearly at the bottom in big, bold letters.
4. Design the back with stats. Flip your card over. Create fun categories like 'Speed,' 'Strength,' 'Cuteness,' or 'Humor' and give each a number from 1-10. Add a short description or fun fact. You can also include things like height, favorite food, or special abilities.
5. Add finishing touches. Go over any pencil lines with marker or colored pencil to make them pop. Add borders, patterns, or decorative elements. Make sure everything is colored in neatly and the text is easy to read.