Question 1

What size is an artist trading card?

Accepted Answer

Every artist trading card is exactly 2.5 x 3.5 inches (64 x 89 mm), the same dimensions as a sports or playing card. This fixed size is the one universal rule of the ATC format, so any card fits standard 9-pocket binder pages, top-loaders, and penny sleeves. Anything larger or smaller is something else, like an ACEO oversize or a mini print, even if the art style looks similar.

Question 2

What is the difference between an ATC and an ACEO?

Accepted Answer

An ATC (artist trading card) is meant to be traded freely and never sold, following the format's community rules that started in Switzerland in 1997. An ACEO (Art Cards, Editions and Originals) is the same 2.5 x 3.5 inch size but made to be sold. On JediPic listings you will mostly see ACEOs since they carry a price, though many makers still call them ATCs casually. The size and collectible appeal are identical.

Question 3

How much do artist trading cards cost?

Accepted Answer

Single original ATCs and ACEOs usually cost $5-$25. Highly detailed miniature paintings, intricate ink work, or signed editions by established makers run $30-$80. Themed sets of three to six cards often land in the $20-$60 band. Price tracks medium and time, so a quick gelli-print abstract sits lower while a layered mixed-media piece or fine watercolor portrait sits higher.

Question 4

What should I look for on the back of an ATC?

Accepted Answer

Check the back first: serious makers sign it and add the title, date, an edition number like 2/10, and sometimes the medium and shop name. An original is marked 1/1 or OOAK (one of a kind). A signed, numbered back confirms authenticity and helps a collector track provenance in a swap binder, which matters most if you ever trade or resell the card later.

Question 5

What materials and styles are common?

Accepted Answer

Common ATC mediums include watercolor, gouache, acrylic, ink and pen, colored pencil, and alcohol ink, plus mixed-media collage, gelli and lino prints, rubber-stamping, and fiber work like tiny embroidery or beading. Subjects range from florals, animals, and portraits to abstract color studies and fandom sketch cards. Because the surface is small, makers favor heavyweight 140lb watercolor paper, mat board, or primed card stock that resists warping.

Question 6

Are artist trading cards good gifts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, ATCs make affordable, easy-to-ship art gifts, usually under $30, that suit collectors, mail-art pen pals, teachers, and anyone who likes original work without wall-sized commitment. They slip into a greeting card, a frame, or a binder page and travel flat. For a personal touch, ask makers about custom subjects or a small commissioned set; custom cards usually take 1-3 weeks versus 3-7 business days for ready-made stock.

Artist Trading Cards & ATC Originals

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