How to Make Altered Art MTG Cards: A Creative Guide
Altered art MTG cards, also known as Magic: The Gathering (MTG) cards with unique, personalized designs, have gained popularity among collectors and enthusiasts. These cards offer a unique way to express your creativity while adding a personal touch to your collection. In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating your own altered art MTG cards, from gathering materials to executing your design.
1. Gather Your Materials
Before you begin, you’ll need to gather the necessary materials. Here’s a list of essential supplies:
– Magic: The Gathering cards (either used or new, depending on your preference)
– Acrylic paints or markers
– Scissors or craft knife
– Adhesives (such as glue sticks or double-sided tape)
– Embellishments (e.g., glitter, stickers, beads, ribbons)
– Brushes (for painting)
– Optional: Cutting mat, ruler, pencil, eraser
2. Choose Your Design
The first step in creating your altered art MTG card is to decide on a design. This could be anything from a simple repaint of the card to a complex, multi-layered project. Consider the following ideas:
– Create a custom artwork that complements the card’s theme.
– Use a popular quote or phrase related to the card’s mechanics or lore.
– Incorporate elements from the card’s illustration, such as rearranging or adding new elements.
– Design a completely unique image that doesn’t relate to the card at all.
3. Prepare the Card
Once you’ve chosen your design, it’s time to prepare the card. Here’s what to do:
– If you’re using a new card, remove the protective foil and trim the card to the desired size using scissors or a craft knife.
– If you’re using a used card, clean it thoroughly to remove any old adhesive or dirt.
– Optional: Apply a thin layer of mod podge or clear coat to the card to protect the artwork and make it more durable.
4. Apply Your Design
Now it’s time to start applying your design to the card. Here are some tips for this step:
– If you’re painting, start with a light base coat to ensure your colors blend well.
– Use a variety of brushes and techniques to create depth and texture.
– Add embellishments as desired, but be careful not to overload the card.
– Once you’re satisfied with your design, allow the paint to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
5. Final Touches
After your design is dry, it’s time to add the final touches to your altered art MTG card:
– Trim any excess paint or embellishments that are sticking out.
– Apply a clear coat or mod podge to protect your artwork and give it a glossy finish.
– Optional: Add a label or stamp with your name or the card’s name to personalize it further.
6. Showcase Your Creation
Now that your altered art MTG card is complete, it’s time to show it off. You can display it in your collection, share it with friends, or even sell it online. Who knows, you might inspire others to start their own altered art journey!
Creating altered art MTG cards is a fun and rewarding way to express your creativity and add a personal touch to your collection. With the right materials and a bit of imagination, you can create stunning works of art that will be cherished for years to come. Happy crafting!
