Alright, deck-builders and budgeteers! Ever dreamt of slinging that super-rare Black Lotus without emptying your bank account? Printing MTG proxies is your golden ticket! The online tool MTG Proxy Generator offers a fantastic way to create those test cards. Card legality obviously matters, and proxies are primarily for casual play, not sanctioned events run by Wizards of the Coast. This guide is all about how to print MTG proxies, so you can test out those crazy combos before investing serious cash – let’s get started!
Printing Your Dream Deck: The Ultimate MTG Proxy Guide (2024)
Hey there, fellow Magic enthusiast! Ever wanted to sling a deck filled with those super-rare, bank-breaking cards, but your wallet screamed "NO!"? That’s where MTG proxies come in! Don’t worry, printing your own proxies is totally doable, and I’m here to walk you through everything you need to know to get started, focusing on the main goal: "how to print mtg proxies".
First things first, let’s talk about what we’re going to cover. Think of this guide as your personal proxy printing playbook! We’ll break down the process into easy-to-digest steps.
Understanding MTG Proxies and Their Purpose
So, what exactly are proxies? Simply put, they are stand-ins for real cards. They’re perfect for:
- Testing out new deck ideas before dropping serious cash.
- Playing casually with friends without risking your valuable collection.
- Having fun with formats like Commander (EDH) where pricey cards are common.
It’s important to remember that proxies are generally not allowed in official tournaments. Use them responsibly and ethically, folks!
Gathering Your Supplies: What You’ll Need
Before you dive headfirst into proxy printing, gather your gear! This is a relatively low-cost project. Here is a list of things you’ll need:
- Computer: Obviously!
- Printer: An inkjet or laser printer will work. Color is definitely preferred for the full MTG experience.
- Paper: Regular printer paper is fine for basic proxies, but card stock will give you a more authentic feel.
- Scissors or Paper Cutter: For neatly cutting out your proxies.
- Adhesive (Optional): Glue stick or double-sided tape if you want to attach your proxies to real cards.
- MTG Card Backs (Optional): If you want your proxies to look even more realistic on the back.
Finding Images: Sourcing High-Quality Card Scans
This is where the magic happens! You need to find good-quality images of the cards you want to proxy. Here are some trusty resources:
- Scryfall: A fantastic website with a comprehensive MTG database and high-resolution card images.
- MTGGoldfish: Another great resource for card prices and images.
- Third-Party Proxy Services: Some websites offer proxy card image downloads.
Tips for Choosing Images:
- Resolution: Look for images with a decent resolution (at least 300 DPI) to avoid blurry prints.
- Clarity: Make sure the text and artwork are clear and readable.
- Consistency: Use the same card edition images if possible to maintain visual consistency in your deck.
Printing Your Proxies: Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, you’ve got your supplies and your images. Let’s get printing!
- Open a Word Processing or Image Editing Program: Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or even something like Photoshop or GIMP (free alternative!) will work.
- Insert Images: Import the card images you want to print into your document.
- Size and Arrange Images: Here’s the crucial part! You need to size the images correctly so they match the dimensions of a real MTG card (approximately 2.5 x 3.5 inches or 63.5 x 88.9 mm). Arrange the images efficiently to maximize the number of cards you can print per page.
- A typical 8.5 x 11 inch sheet of paper can fit around nine proxies comfortable.
- Print Settings: Before you hit print, double-check your printer settings. Make sure you’re printing in color, at the highest quality setting possible, and that you’ve selected the correct paper type (especially if you’re using card stock).
- Print! Now, hit that print button and watch your proxies come to life!
- Cutting Time: Carefully cut out your proxies using scissors or a paper cutter. Precision is key for a professional look!
Giving Your Proxies That "Real Card" Feel (Optional)
Want to take your proxies to the next level? Here’s how:
- Gluing to Basic Lands or Unwanted Cards: Attach your proxies to the front of basic lands or cards you don’t use. This adds stiffness and weight, making them feel more like real cards.
- Using Card Sleeves: Sleeve up your entire deck, including your proxies. This will protect them and make them blend in seamlessly with your other cards.
Troubleshooting Common Printing Issues
Sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:
- Images are too small/large: Double-check your image sizing in your document. Make sure they’re the correct dimensions.
- Print quality is poor: Increase your printer’s quality settings. You may also need to use higher-resolution images.
- Ink smudging: Allow the ink to dry completely before handling the printed proxies.
Examples
Here is an example table to show you how many proxies fit on a single paper.
| Paper Size | Number of Proxies |
|---|---|
| A4 (210 x 297mm) | 9 |
| Letter (8.5 x 11) | 9 |
Understanding the Legalities
It’s important to know that using proxies in official tournaments is not allowed and can lead to consequences if caught. However, for casual play with friends or for playtesting purposes, proxies are generally accepted. It is essential to respect the game’s rules and community standards. Be transparent with your playgroup about using proxies to ensure fair play and mutual agreement.
<h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
<h3>What is the quickest way to print MTG proxies if I need them right now?</h3>
The fastest way to print MTG proxies is using a readily available online proxy generator. Input the card names, download the generated image, and print it on standard paper using your home printer. This is a simple method for how to print MTG proxies quickly.
<h3>What paper is best for making durable MTG proxies that feel close to real cards?</h3>
For more durable MTG proxies that feel more like real cards, print on thicker card stock paper (around 200-300gsm). Using a glossy finish can also improve the look and feel, making the process of how to print MTG proxies yield higher quality results.
<h3>Do I need special software to create and print MTG proxies?</h3>
No, special software is not strictly required. Basic image editing software (like GIMP or Photoshop, but even MS Paint can work) can be used for minor adjustments. But websites exist to make it easier. These websites can help with how to print MTG proxies with very little technical knowledge.
<h3>Is it legal to print and use MTG proxies in official Magic: The Gathering tournaments?</h3>
Printing MTG proxies for use in official tournaments is generally not permitted. Proxies are mainly for casual playtesting or replacing damaged cards within your collection, not for competitive events sanctioned by Wizards of the Coast. How to print MTG proxies is a method of creation, not an authorization for tournament use.So there you have it! Printing MTG proxies doesn’t have to be some daunting task. With a little know-how and readily available materials, you can easily create awesome proxies to test decks, fill in gaps in your collection, or just have some fun. Happy printing!