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Any Questions About Artist Trading Cards?

Or Maybe A General Comment About ACEO Cards?

From the lens Making Artist Trading Cards - 1001 Techniques.

I encourage readers to ask for information on any specific technique - no trick questions, puleese. E.G. I do not think that sculpting has ever produced an ACEO, but if you can prove me wrong please let me know. But seriously, what would you like to read about?

Addendum: Actually, I have now come across art cards made from air-drying clay. Perhaps I should add a section to say a little about this technique. And I have also seen cards created from sand, bonded to a backing card and with shells and found items from beaches on the cards. The more I search and read the more I find. Now there's an inspiring thought.

Of course within these broad categories there are so many different techniques, I would encourage you to read about the methods and look at some of the links which I have dropped throughout the lens. I will be adding more pages with specific information on various techniques as time allows.

  • MysticTurtle May 21, 2012 @ 8:39 pm | delete
    I heard of ATC's awhile back, but have not had time to make an attempt. Reading this lens really makes me want to get started! I love working with miniatures. Love your watercolors!
  • Morgannafay May 1, 2012 @ 1:02 am | delete
    I really adore your water color atc cards! Also, I really loved reading and going down memory lane.

    Heh, since I've dabbled in the atcs for many years, I can't say I've ever seen a sculpture either. The subject came up once or twice, but none came about.

    I've also collected a few digital collages when I was trading. The work is really amazing when you get it in person, especially on a glossy card. I also have collected other peoples encaustic cards. Oooh they look like bright, colorful alien landscapes!

    And which brings me to scratch board. I traded with an artist named Rottonfosker who drew an otter on black scratch board with the silver underneath. That was really breath taking. It's very detailed with all the fur and lines. Sorry for rambling, I really love this page. lol.
  • ArtByLinda Apr 10, 2012 @ 12:01 am | delete
    I love your artwork; you are very talented but I have to say my favorites are the painted ACEO's. You have covered so much in this one lens...even if it did not reach 1001. :) Which it might have but I was too busy reading and looking at your art. Thanks for sharing all this!
  • TTMall Mar 28, 2012 @ 12:20 pm | delete
    Very informative lens. Well done!
  • CNelson01 Mar 26, 2012 @ 11:36 am | delete
    I had never heard of ATC's before this. I have created my own business cards where I promote my photography website on one side and my book on another and I often exchange business cards but have never run into ATC's. Interesting and informative lens.
  • SlapDashMom Mar 24, 2012 @ 9:58 pm | delete
    WOW I could have used this lens years ago when I first learned about ATCs! This is awesome. :)
  • happynutritionist Mar 18, 2012 @ 1:18 pm | delete
    So very interesting..in spite of having various members of the family who are artists or artistically inclined, this was quite new to me. *blessed*
  • SimplyTonjia Mar 15, 2012 @ 10:45 am | delete
    Nice work--both the lens and your art. Thank you.
  • AlexTedford Mar 10, 2012 @ 2:03 pm | delete
    Awesome lens! I am REALLY interested by this topic...also, if you wouldn't mind, I would really appreciate if you took the time to bless my lens: squidoo.com/jeremylinmerchandise ...thanks! You are one of my favorite lensmasters!
  • lestroischenes Mar 10, 2012 @ 5:13 am | delete
    Fantastic lens, John. I'm going to become one of your top fans! Do you manage to make much cash selling these on eBay? (Sorry to be so mercenary. Someone famous once said that it's not true that artists are not interested in cash - they're only interested in it. I'm still seeking a way to live from my art so that I can live for my art).
  • dcopps Mar 9, 2012 @ 5:16 pm | delete
    I love a kjnd of unusual lens like this one. And beautifully put together.
  • LaraineRose Mar 9, 2012 @ 9:16 am | delete
    I've just a new art form I'd love to try. (encaustic wax) The videos were excellent! Your whole lens was excellent with so many links. I did look at a lot of the trading cards. I paint most of the time in acrylic but there are so many other mediums I would like to try. Thank you for this informative lens. Angel blessings.
  • AndyPo Mar 8, 2012 @ 5:27 am | delete
    Excellent lens. I learned a lot.
  • burntchestnut Feb 26, 2012 @ 1:30 pm | delete
    Wow! I could spend all day on this lens. Will have to book mark it to come back to. Thanks for all the great information.
  • TTMall Feb 26, 2012 @ 7:42 am | delete
    Great lens with excellent pictures. Thank you very much!
  • desertdarlene Feb 20, 2012 @ 4:40 pm | delete
    I used to do ACEOs all the time, but stopped. I may take it up again. I've found that using Canson's canvas paper is great for acrylic paint. The card is very stiff and doesn't get soggy when wet. Plus, it has a canvas texture.
  • Deadicated Feb 18, 2012 @ 10:29 pm | delete
    I really enjoyed this lens, it is very informative and well done; I Pinned, Google+'d & FaceBooked it. Thanks for all the cool info.
  • YellowHammer Feb 13, 2012 @ 5:27 pm | delete
    I just recently found out about the existence of artist trading cards and have gradually been doing research to make some of my own. Your lens gives me all the information and inspiration I need. Thanks.
  • Tipi Feb 8, 2012 @ 8:25 pm | delete
    Came back to post this on Twitter, FaceBook and Google+
    Its a fun resource of artistic things for everyone to find something to do.
    Life does not need to be boring when we are creative and creating.
  • artyfax Feb 9, 2012 @ 2:14 pm | delete
    Thanks Susie, always ready to accept a little help with my lenses. And I do agree, with your comment about creative activity.
  • Adrijan Feb 3, 2012 @ 3:18 pm | delete
    Great lens this is wery intresting
  • artbyrodriguez Jan 20, 2012 @ 7:33 pm | delete
    Wonderfully different ideas for ACEOs. I really enjoyed this lens.
  • fotolady49 Jan 18, 2012 @ 3:55 am | delete
    Outstanding Lens! I've been learning more about ACEO Cards and have bookmarked this very informative lens! Thanks for this great resource on artist's trading cards.
  • Koupie Jan 17, 2012 @ 9:04 am | delete
    I think you must have covered all mediums , this is a stellar lens. I used to trade and do all the challenges on blogs but have gotten out of that now, I mostly work in collage on my atcs. blocks of wood were very popular in the blogging community for atc's at one time too. *Blessed...
  • artyfax Jan 17, 2012 @ 1:00 pm | delete
    Thanks for the reminder, I have now added a link to atc's made from a wooden base.
  • whitneywpanetta Jan 16, 2012 @ 10:16 am | delete
    I have done a lesson about this in my art class before, and this is an amazing resource! I will definitely refer my students to this the next time I do this lesson!
  • jadehorseshoe Jan 16, 2012 @ 12:36 am | delete
    If the talent fairy ever visits me, I will know exactly which lens to reach for.
  • VillaDejaBlue Jan 11, 2012 @ 10:38 pm | delete
    Nice lens.
  • kathysart Jan 11, 2012 @ 2:44 pm | delete
    This is a REALLY GOOD lens! I tried making these a few years ago and gave up because I like working large BUT.. you make me want to give it another go. Angel blessed!
  • KitandCaboodle Jan 11, 2012 @ 10:33 am | delete
    I love the tips you have for making Artist Trading Cards. I'm adding this to my new Squidoo Artist Community lens in the tutorial section. Blessed.
  • BarbRad Jan 9, 2012 @ 10:58 pm | delete
    What a thorough lens this is. Anyone wanting to begin making ATCs will find plenty of inspiration and help here.
  • klaird Jan 4, 2012 @ 5:40 pm | delete
    These are so cool! Very unique designs. Love the pictures! I've featured this lens on my "50 Craft Ideas for Adults" page. Great job!
  • Tipi Jan 3, 2012 @ 7:09 pm | delete
    You put an amazing amount of work into this masterpiece....blessed!
  • sandyspider Jan 1, 2012 @ 8:07 pm | delete
    Blessed! Please add this to the plexo on my New Year 2012 Blessings and Zazzle lens. You can find in listed on my profile page.
  • paperfacets Dec 31, 2011 @ 2:54 pm | delete
    The ACEO forum on Ebay introduced me to Squidoo. I am so glad because Squidoo is more fun than ebay.
  • entertainmenteveryday Dec 26, 2011 @ 7:56 am | delete
    I've always loved and appreciated art. Thank you for informing me about this aspect of art. I may just have to make my own card. It might make a nice gift.

    Wonderful lens!
  • cffutah Dec 22, 2011 @ 8:27 am | delete
    this was great, enjoyed reading it this morning, thank you.
  • TheMadStamper Dec 17, 2011 @ 10:34 am | delete
    Great lens. Thanks for all the tips!
  • gypsyman27 Dec 6, 2011 @ 5:40 pm | delete
    Very informative lens regarding this subject. I would like to say that you certainly have varied works in your repertoire. See you around the galaxy...
  • bjslapidary Nov 13, 2011 @ 9:57 am | delete
    You have a very interesting lens. I love how you have gone to such detail to explain the many different ways of making ATCs. Thanks so much for sharing.
  • alteredkat Nov 2, 2011 @ 12:40 pm | delete
    I used to make them and sell them on ebay/etsy...but my muse went on vacation...
  • MintySea Oct 27, 2011 @ 6:33 pm | delete
    I want to start doing these art cards
  • Florencia Sep 28, 2011 @ 11:32 am | delete
    Congrats for the page and all the information!! I want to trade ATC ad APC. Visit my site and you can see part of my ATC: www.mistarjetasatc.blogspot.com
    Regards. Florencia from Argentina
  • CJ Aug 13, 2011 @ 12:31 am | delete
    If I were to create several ACEOs from a print of one of my original paintings and add more mediums or media to it; could this still be considered an original?
  • artyfax Aug 13, 2011 @ 8:26 am | delete
    An interesting question CJ. I have seen many artists making prints and altering them in some very minor way and selling these on Ebay as one-of-a-kind aceo's. For example adding a few marks with a pen or a brush. So there ia a precedent and I have one or two of this kind of work in my personal collection which I purchased off Ebay knowing what they were.

    Also most buyers of aceo prints, like to know that the original was aceo size and not simply a reduced copy. Again if you are up front about it this should not matter. I did buy a print once which I suspected was from a larger original and felt unhappy that the artist had not made this clear before my purchase. ACEO is an art format based on size and has it's own set of problems associated with the size, this is what makes it an issue for many. However, in the case of a photograph, is this a real issue. The photographer is able to print his images to any size required. A difficult problem to answer, so I would say always be open and up front about the size of original artwork.

    I hope that this answers your question.

    I think as long as you are up front about the item then it is perfectly possible to describe the altered print in this way. Original is a more emotive description.
  • Serenia May 14, 2011 @ 8:55 am | delete
    Another wonderful Papercraft lens. I had heard of artist trading cards before, but have never made any. I prefer doing things that dont involve drawing or painting. So if I ever do make any ATC's, I think I will use the adding graphics and words methods and the rubber stamping.method.
  • sushilkin May 2, 2011 @ 12:05 am | delete
    Thanks for sharing on squidoo. Pls Pray for japan by visiting my lens
  • mattseefood Apr 28, 2011 @ 5:33 am | delete
    Wow! You're really creative from making these cards :) Great stuff!
  • sponias Apr 27, 2011 @ 4:17 pm | delete
    I’d love to follow your advice, but I really have no time for art… My creativity is finding a way of expression as I create Squidoo lenses, but I have no time for more. However, I’m an eternal admirer of all artistic manifestations. Congratulations for your excellent work!
  • Tipi Apr 17, 2011 @ 8:46 pm | delete
    Also congratulations on a very deserving purple star!
  • Tipi Apr 17, 2011 @ 8:43 pm | delete
    You sure put in the time on this and came up with a great tutorial, well done!
  • Warrenpeace21 Apr 10, 2011 @ 7:41 am | delete
    This is a fantastic website. Keep up the excellent work.
  • JJNW Apr 9, 2011 @ 10:26 pm | delete
    *** Blessed by a the Craft Ideas SquidAngel *** for lovely layout, awesome ideas, and inspiring me!!
    (No questions yet, but good to know you are here!)
  • artyfax Mar 30, 2011 @ 4:14 am | delete
    Hi Michele thanks for the question, I have answered you directly
  • michele8x10 Mar 29, 2011 @ 8:14 pm | delete
    I have a question about ACEO. Should photos be resized when printing. If so, what size would be appropriate? Thanks.
    I also wanted to thank everyone for these wonderful lenses. They are so helpful and amazing.
  • Evelyn_Saenz Mar 26, 2011 @ 2:01 pm | delete
    I just discovered ATC's today! Thank you for expanding my knowledge.
  • NaturalMindset Mar 17, 2011 @ 9:19 pm | delete
    Full of information & inspiration! Lensrolled to Colorful Art Quotes and Sentiments.
  • lgilchuk Mar 12, 2011 @ 12:25 pm | delete
    Amazing article John. Simply inspiring for newbies and ATC addicts.
  • WildFacesGallery Mar 12, 2011 @ 11:12 am | delete
    This is really a fabulous lens. Had been before and thunbs up then, blessed now. :)
  • Littlegreenjellybean Feb 23, 2011 @ 4:03 pm | delete
    This is wonderful resource! I am amazed at the lengths you went to to compile all of the information! I'm new to the art of ACEOs. I love to see all the different styles! I would love to invite people to a blog I started recently that is working to promote small format art. My hope is that ACEOs never fade in popularity. They are both charming and economical!

    LittleGreenJellyBean
    http://littlegreenjellybean.blogspot.com
  • capriliz Feb 12, 2011 @ 6:14 pm | delete
    Your artwork is amazing.
  • prosperity66 Feb 7, 2011 @ 2:25 pm | delete
    I'm wowed! You built a huge resource centre for anyone who's looking into ACEO art cards. Hats off!
  • MTF-briguy Feb 4, 2011 @ 4:23 am | delete
    Great site and thanks for the information on making aceos.
  • 2muchtrash Feb 4, 2011 @ 4:05 am | delete
    Wow, this is a very impressive lens that covers and extremely fascinating subject. I did not know anything about making aceos before coming to your lens, and now I feel I know so much more about this art form. You are very talented! *SquidAngel Blessed*
  • TheLittleCardShop Feb 3, 2011 @ 5:50 pm | delete
    Great cards and a very informative lens as a designer I loved to learn so much about them
  • Bookworm25 Feb 2, 2011 @ 10:26 am | delete
    Enjoyed this lens, there is a lot of information on here, I found it really interesting, I knew very little about it before. I like the layout and I thought it was explained wonderfully :)
  • WildFacesGallery Feb 1, 2011 @ 8:32 am | delete
    I had made a couple of aceo's a few years back for sale on ebay. I was greatly surprised at the amount of money I got for some of them but in the end I'm not good at working on such a tiny format. You did an excellent job explaining it all here.
  • smmastiff Jan 31, 2011 @ 10:06 pm | delete
    I collect mastiff ACEO cards a great way to collect original art for an affordable price
  • MomwithAHook Jan 26, 2011 @ 12:07 am | delete
    Very thorough lens on this mini art - I love collecting them. Blessed by a rocketmom SquidAngel.
  • ideadesigns Jan 20, 2011 @ 8:13 am | delete
    Very creative art pieces. I've not heard of doing these. I think if I were doing some I'd do digital and maybe some drawing/coloring. Thanks for sharing!
  • LisaAuch Dec 3, 2010 @ 4:09 am | delete
    Well as someone who is just statring out on the artistic world, I learned so much here, these are unique beautiful, and simply wonderful!
  • GonnaFly Nov 26, 2010 @ 3:46 pm | delete
    My word. What a great collection.
  • poutine Nov 17, 2010 @ 11:01 am | delete
    Beautiful work.
  • d-artist Nov 7, 2010 @ 2:43 pm | delete
    Great lens on making ACEO's...I love your little paintings, they are great!
    I only do commissions now, eBay was a waste of time, occasionally I would get the $100 bid, but it never really balanced out over time, the fees and all the costs just wasn't worth my time...
  • theraggededge Nov 7, 2010 @ 5:33 am | delete
    I've never tried these but Zentangles would work well, wouldn't they? I'd like to ask if framing them in groups of 3, 6, 9, 12, rather than singly is a good idea? And if so, would you add an allowance to each one for the mount/matt board?
  • artyfax Nov 7, 2010 @ 6:55 am | delete
    I have been involved in group trades where these (or doodling) have been selected as a theme, so yes they do work admirably. I will be adding this as another technique to the lens and refer to yours if I may as examples.

    As to framing, I do think that framed groups can look very good. Certainly cigarette cards and sports careds are often framed as sets of 20 -40, etc. For art cards I would not personally advocate framing this large a collection unless there was a good reason, but smaller groups do work. I have used 2 / 3 for my aceo cards but it could be more.

    I am not sure what exactly the question about allowances is asking but see no reason why mounts could not be cut ( with multiple apertures) to frame a sheet of several zentangles, or alternatively why single pieces could not be framed in a mount with multiple apertures.
  • ohcaroline Oct 24, 2010 @ 5:35 pm | delete
    I like your work. It's pretty cool. (not a real artsy word I know). thanks for taking my apple quiz.
  • mulberry Oct 23, 2010 @ 1:30 am | delete
    Great info. I'm no artist so I have to rely on people like you to create beautiful cards like this. They are all fantastic but the paper sculpture always grabs my eye.
  • artyfax Oct 21, 2010 @ 4:58 pm | delete
    mmmm........... I have fallen into my own trap here. I have written a series of four lenses about ACEO's and have described them in some detail in the first. Subsequent lenses do not have this description, but of course I should have accepted that some readers would not necessarily start at the beginning. I will edit the intro to make amends, thanks for the comment.
  • Ramkitten Oct 21, 2010 @ 4:46 pm | delete
    Hm, what does ACEO stand for?
  • artyfax Jan 19, 2009 @ 10:51 am | delete
    Hi, thanks for sending readers my way, very much aprreciated.

    I do not have an Etsy presence, I have sold many aceo paintings on Ebay however. But at the moment I am creating ATC cards ( exactly the same as aceo's but theses are swapped or traded NOT sold. I have a Flickr account where you can see all my artwork. surf over to http://www.flickr.com/photos/shadfan66/ where you will find my photostream. [in reply to Aloquin]
  • Aloquin Jan 18, 2009 @ 5:50 pm | delete
    For 2 weeks now I have been very interested in ACEOs. I've begun making them and selling/trading on Etsy. Do you yourself have a shop on etsy? I'd love to see some more of your stuff! I also send every one who wonders what an ACEO is here to this lense. Thank you!
  • BeautifulDreamer Sep 1, 2008 @ 3:39 pm | delete
    What is an ACEO?
  • Ayala Jan 25, 2008 @ 7:19 pm | delete
    Great lens!
  • bjslapidary Jan 17, 2008 @ 7:40 pm | delete
    Enjoyed your lens. Thanks
  • StudioHaycross Aug 22, 2007 @ 5:51 am | delete
    I'll have to try a few of those and add them to my current line of abstract paintings.
  • catch-cheating Jul 23, 2007 @ 7:51 am | delete
    great lens, very nice art, 5 star
  • Shellrose Jul 17, 2007 @ 11:48 pm | delete
    HI there! Thanks so much for your support!

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artyfax

I am a largely self-taught artist with a long time interest in the creative arts. A few years ago I found out accidentaly about artist trading cards, I... more »

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