Custom playing card stocks& finishes that fit your deck.
Five performance stocks. Three finishes. One honest guide to picking the exact paper, weight and feel your deck deserves — from budget promo runs to tournament-grade editions.
Every stock we press,
side by side.
Hover any specimen to reveal the technical spec, tactile properties, and recommended use for each engineered stock.
Economy
Best valueSmooth coated 280 GSM blue-core paper for short-run promotional decks and prototypes.
See full spec sheet →Standard Black Core
Most popular300 GSM black-core stock with smooth coated finish — our most-ordered paper.
See full spec sheet →Premium Linen
Tactile finish310 GSM with air-cushion linen embossed finish — tactile grip, reduced glare.
See full spec sheet →Deluxe Black Core
Pro gradeHeavyweight 310 GSM black-core stock — the tournament-grade paper choice.
See full spec sheet →Waterproof
NewWaterproof 100% plastic. Bend-, fold- and spill-resistant — casino-grade durability.
See full spec sheet →Hover (or tap and hold) to see full specs
The surface you shuffle.
Three core finishes that change how a deck feels, dealt, photographed and survived.
Cross-hatch texture that mimics tournament decks. Reduces glare, improves shuffle.
Sharp, low-friction finish for fast dealing and crisp photography.
Plastic stock that survives pool decks, bartops and bad weather.
Stock vs. stock, stat by stat.
Every stock rated across the six qualities buyers compare most. More pips = stronger in that category.
| Stock | Durability | Snap | Shuffle | Opacity | Waterproof | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Economy 280 GSM Blue Core | ||||||
Standard Black Core 300 GSM Black Core | ||||||
Premium Linen 310 GSM Black Core | ||||||
Deluxe Black Core 310 GSM | ||||||
100% Plastic Waterproof |
Different jobs, different stocks.
A clear comparison so you don't overspend — or undersell — your deck.
| Feature | Paper | Plastic |
|---|---|---|
| Waterproof | ||
| Bend-resistant | ||
| Spill-proof | ||
| Lowest cost | ||
| Classic snap & feel | ||
| Casino-grade durability | ||
| Best for metallic & embossing | ||
| Recyclable |
What GSM is best for playing cards?
300 GSM black-core is the best all-round playing card stock and the most-ordered choice for real gameplay. 280 GSM economy suits short-lived promo decks, 310 GSM premium linen and deluxe black-core suit magicians and premium retail, and 100% plastic suits pools, casinos, and outdoor use.
What is black-core card stock?
Black-core card stock laminates an opaque black sheet between two printed white sheets, so no light passes through and opponents cannot read faces from the back. It is the industry standard for poker, magic, and casino decks. Cheap promo decks skip the core, which is why they look translucent.
Is plastic or paper better for playing cards?
Paper black-core stock prints sharper artwork, feels traditional, and costs less, making it right for most custom decks. 100% plastic is waterproof and lasts far longer through heavy shuffling, making it right for pools, bars, casinos, and outdoor use — at a higher per-deck price.
What is air-cushion finish?
Air-cushion finish is an embossed linen texture pressed into coated card stock that traps microscopic air pockets so cards glide instead of sticking. It also scatters glare under stage and tournament lighting. It is applied at the press and cannot be added to a finished deck.
Ready to print your custom playing cards?
15-deck MOQ. Free file review. Digital proof before press. Printed in Orlando, FL.