Tabletop Companion

Proxy Paper Guide

Choose the perfect paper for your proxy cards. From sticker paper to cardstock.

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Paper Comparison

RECOMMENDED
Uinkit Double Sided Photo Paper Glossy
Glossy!

Uinkit Double Sided Photo Paper Glossy

Advantages
  • High-gloss finish for vibrant colors
  • Double-sided printing capability
  • Amazing stiffness and snap after laminating
Disadvantages
  • Ever so slightly thicker than a factory card after laminating
RECOMMENDED
Koala Sticker Paper Glossy
Glossy!

Koala Sticker Paper Glossy

Advantages
  • High-gloss finish for vibrant colors
Disadvantages
MR.R Double Side Glossy
Glossy!

MR.R Double Side Glossy

Advantages
  • Very high gloss for exceptional color vibrancy
  • Double-sided printing capability
  • Perfect thickness after laminating
Disadvantages
  • Slightly less rigid than a factory card

Amazon:

Koala Sticker Paper Matte
Matte!

Koala Sticker Paper Matte

Advantages
  • Matte finish reduces glare
Disadvantages
  • Matte finish will appear less vibrant than glossy

Amazon:

PPD Double Sided Photo Paper Matte
Matte!

PPD Double Sided Photo Paper Matte

Advantages
  • Matte finish reduces glare
  • Double-sided printing capability
Disadvantages
  • Matte finish will appear less vibrant than glossy

Amazon:

Printworks Gloss/Matte Photo Paper

Printworks Gloss/Matte Photo Paper

Advantages
  • High-gloss finish for vibrant colors or available in Matte
  • Professional photo paper quality
  • Good weight for laminating
Disadvantages
Koehler Black Core Card Stock

Koehler Black Core Card Stock

WARNING: This paper will not work with a home printer without using inkAID!

Advantages
  • 12pt is almost exactly like a factory MTG card in thickness, weight, and stiffness
  • 11pt with a sticker will feel like a factory MTG card and only be slightly thicker
Disadvantages
  • Higher cost in paper and inkAID
  • Requires inkAID to print on non-printable materials
  • More work to make work
  • Thicker and stiffer than standard cardstock so won't work on all printers
inkAID Clear Gloss Inkjet Receptive Coating

inkAID Clear Gloss Inkjet Receptive Coating

Used for printing on cardstock that normally won't work with inkjet printers

Advantages
  • Creates inkjet-receptive surfaces on non-printable materials
Disadvantages
  • Requires proper application

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between sticker paper and cardstock?
Sticker paper has a self-adhesive backing that allows you to stick the printed design directly onto another surface, while cardstock is a thick paper that you print on directly. Sticker paper is great for applying to existing cards or surfaces, while cardstock is better for creating standalone proxy cards.
What weight cardstock should I use for proxy cards?
For proxy cards, 65-80 lb cardstock provides the best balance of durability and printability. 65 lb is lighter and more flexible, while 80 lb is thicker and more rigid. Both work well for most applications, but 80 lb will feel more like real trading cards.
Can I use regular printer paper for proxy cards?
While you can use regular printer paper, it's not recommended for proxy cards. Regular paper is too thin and will wear out quickly during gameplay. Cardstock or sticker paper will provide much better durability and a more professional appearance.
How do I prevent sticker paper from curling?
Store sticker paper in a cool, dry place and keep it flat. Avoid exposing it to humidity or direct sunlight. When printing, use the highest quality settings and allow the paper to cool completely before handling. Consider using a paper weight to keep sheets flat during printing.
Should I use matte or glossy finish?
Glossy finishes provide vibrant colors and a professional look, while matte finishes are less reflective and easier to handle. For proxy cards, glossy is often preferred for the visual appeal, but matte can be better for cards that will be handled frequently.
How do I cut paper to card size accurately?
Use a paper cutter or guillotine for the most accurate cuts. Standard trading cards are typically 2.5 x 3.5 inches (63.5 x 88.9 mm). You can print multiple cards on a single sheet and cut them out, or use a template to ensure consistent sizing.