Zine Playing Cards
Welcome to the world of Zine Playing Cards, where the vibrant spirit of DIY ethic and the captivating allure of photocopied collage culture converge to create a deck that's unlike any other. Crafted with passion and precision by Shy Brains (@shybrainsgetnowt), this deck is a testament to the artistry and creativity that can be infused into every aspect of playing cards.
Embracing the DIY Ethic
Zine Playing Cards draws its inspiration from the rebellious and artistic expressions found in photocopied flyers and zines of the 80s and 90s. Shy Brains, a graphic designer and product developer with a deep love for punk music, embarked on a journey to blend his passions and create a deck that resonates with the heart of Kickstarter playing cards.
The beauty of the Zine Deck lies in its unique creation process. Every single element of the deck, from the intricate designs to the quirky details, was meticulously printed, cut out, and pasted back together by hand. These art pieces were then scanned to bring life to the super tactile and scuzzy deck of poker cards you see today. Each card boasts its own character, filled with the essence of analog quirks that make them stand out in a digital world.
A Deck Full of Character
The 56 playing cards in Zine Deck are truly one-of-a-kind. The custom artwork on every card adds a touch of individuality to each piece, turning your gameplay or card magic into an extraordinary experience. All four aces showcase exquisite custom artwork, while the 12 court cards feature unique themes tailored to each suit. Whether you're a beginner magician or a seasoned professional, you'll find delight in every card's charm and personality.
Prepare to be amused by the two Jokers in this deck. Sporting artwork of a dumpster fire, these Jokers may appear identical at first glace -- perhaps just mirrored -- but they do indeed boast different designs. I've already thought of a fun card sandwich gag to use them in which just goes to show you that sometimes you can put fun twists on your tricks just by leveraging the design of the cards!
Gaff Cards for Magical Creativity
As a magician, you'll appreciate the inclusion of two gaff cards in the Zine Deck. The 13 of clubs and the unique half King of Diamonds / half Queen of Hearts card open up a world of magical possibilities. These gaff cards add flair and intrigue to your tricks, enabling you to mesmerize your spectators with newfound creativity.
Design and Quality
Zine Playing Cards come packed in a black and white matte-finish tuck case, making it a good everyday carry type of deck. The 300gsm Black Core card stock with a Linen Finish ensures durability and an exquisite feel that will enhance your cardistry moves. Personally, I still don't know what "300gsm Black Core" is, but I do know that this deck feels good in the hands and handles quite well.
Unlike digital creations, the Zine Deck embodies authenticity in every aspect. Shy Brains took pride in ensuring that no digital effects or Photoshop scripts were used in the design process. Every scuff, every imperfection, and every scanner-warp are a testament to the true essence of the art form.
All in all?
In the world of custom playing cards, Zine Playing Cards stands apart as a captivating masterpiece born from passion and creativity. With its unique design, authentic charm, and high-quality craftsmanship, this deck is a must-have for magic enthusiasts, card collectors, and anyone seeking a touch of artistic brilliance in their gameplay. Join the Zine community today and embark on an extraordinary journey filled with wonder and inspiration.
The deck consists of 56 cards:
- 52 playing cards
- Two non-identical dumpster fire jokers
- A 13 of Clubs
- A special half King of Diamonds, half Queen of Hearts
Where to buy?
Last I checked, you should be able to pick up Zine Playing Cards at Etsy. The last price tag I saw for this deck was set at $13.44.