Hello fellow lemmings! I'm designing a customized deck of cards as a present for a friend of mine. When finished, I'd like to print it by myself, because online print services would cost way too much for a single deck of cards. I'd like the cards to be robust and durable, and to be easy to shuffle. Is there a particular type of paper that you recommend? Or something to apply afterward? I'm thinking of plasticizing the cards after the print process, but I don't know how well it would come out. Any idea is welcome!
Find a local print and paper shop, bring them the artwork and they'll have the right printers and paper and cutting tools to make them look good. Of course it's going to cost more than a standard cost for a deck of cards, you're only making one deck. Your standard inkjet printer isn't going to be able to print on the card stock you need to use. Lamination isn't the answer here either.
Call Clampitt Paper 214-638-3300 or go to their website clampitt.com and ask them about good options and what type of printer to use. They have a ton of options.