ATC Master Class #1 USA

I often get inquires from people asking how to create Artist Trading Cards (ATCs). If you are new to ATCs then this is the swap for you! This will hopefully be the first in a series that will have you explore different techniques and get more familiar with the process of creating little works of art!

Swap Requirements: I'm opening this swap up to everyone including newbies with at least 10 COMPLETED swaps, a detailed profile, and NO recent ones or 3's. 4.9 or higher rating I want this swap to be accessible because it's about learning. Don't be a jerk: mail your card on time, and if you are late message your partner and keep them informed. Golden Rule, folks.

Swap Instructions:

This first swap is all about ATC basics! Create 1 ATC for 1 partner. This is sender's choice (nothing religious, political, illegal). Read and follow the instructions thoroughly!

1. ATCs must have a sturdy background. One piece of paper is not acceptable! The proper dimensions are 2.5 by 3.5 inches.... roughly the size of a standard playing card. For this swap, use a playing card as your base! These are very cheap and thrifting is a great way to get playing cards.

2. Create a fun background. You may want to incorporate the design of your playing card, or cover it completely. Your choice. Some things you can use to create a background are hand colored or painted paper, book print, sheet music, napkins, etc. Adhere your background to your card with a sturdy adhesive. I recommend Fabri-tac or Fabri-fix glue, and Scotch Create glue stick.

3. On top of your background add a focal image. This could be a fussy cut picture from a magazine, a die cut, a stamped image, etc. Adhere this with a strong adhesive as well.

4. For the final layer, add an embellishment! This could be a flat back gem, a piece of ribbon or lace, shimmery mica spray, etc. Adhere with strong adhesive and make sure that the embellishment is relatively flat and does not stick up too much.

5. On the back of the card, write your name/ user name, date, name of this swap, and where you are from. This information is very important for ATCs!

6. Put your ATC in a protective sleeve. This is important because it protects your art in transit and makes a nice presentation for your partner! The best sleeve to use are clear protective sleeves used for base ball cards. You can buy a pack of 200 on Amazon for around $10. It doesn't have to be bought on Amazon specifically for this swap, but I recommend these as a good investment!

If you have any questions, please message me rather than post on this swap! I will be happy to answer any questions you may have!

I can't wait to see what you Create!!!!

Ratings: please rate your partner based on whether the ATC they created follows the steps listed above, regardless of whether you like it or not. If you do not receive from your partner two weeks after mailing deadline, message them. If they do not get back to you after a week rate them a 1 and send me a message.