Playing Card Dimensions: Overview and Guide

Crosby Jeffler
3 min readDec 8, 2023

Are you considering creating your own card game and wondering about the correct playing card dimensions? Given the variety of playing cards available, selecting the ideal size can be challenging.

This comprehensive guide details various playing card sizes, assisting you in making informed choices for your custom card prints. Covering everything from poker to tarot cards, you’ll be well-versed in playing card dimensions after reading this article.

Let’s dive in.

What Are the Dimensions of a Standard Playing Card?

Standard playing cards, also known as poker cards, are found in the classic deck of 54 cards, comprising 4 suits (hearts, diamonds, clubs, and spades), including Ace, Jack, Queen, King, and numbers 2–10. These are the most common cards used globally.

The dimensions of a standard playing card are 2.5 inches x 3.5 inches.

Additional measurements for standard playing cards include:

  • Standard playing card size: 2.5in x 3.5in
  • Required bleed: 2mm along each edge
  • Recommended margin: 5mm
  • Rounded corner size: 3.5mm

What Are the Different Playing Card Sizes?

Playing cards come in more than just the traditional poker size. They are available in various shapes and sizes, each catering to different games and purposes.

Bridge Card Playing Card Dimensions

Bridge cards, also known as slim playing cards, closely resemble standard playing card dimensions. Designed specifically for the game of Bridge, these cards maintain a user-friendly size for ease of handling.

The dimensions of a bridge card are 2.25 inches x 3.5 inches.

Additional measurements for bridge playing cards:

  • Bridge playing card size: 2.25in x 3.5in
  • Required bleed: 2mm along each edge
  • Recommended margin: 5mm
  • Rounded corner size: 3.5mm

Tarot Card Playing Card Dimensions

Tarot cards, often found in 78-card decks, each have unique names and meanings. Proper sizing is crucial for tarot cards, given the extensive artwork and text involved.

The dimensions of a tarot card are 2.75 inches x 4.75 inches.

Additional measurements for tarot cards:

  • Tarot card size: 2.75in x 4.75in
  • Required bleed: 2mm along each edge
  • Recommended margin: 5mm
  • Rounded corner size: 6mm

Large Playing Card Dimensions

Large playing cards, apt for educational purposes or novelty uses, are significantly larger than standard cards.

The dimensions of a large playing card are 3.5 inches x 5.75 inches.

Additional measurements for large playing cards:

  • Large playing card size: 3.5in x 5.75in
  • Required bleed: 2mm along each edge
  • Recommended margin: 5mm
  • Rounded corner size: 6mm

MTG (Magic The Gathering) Playing Card Dimensions

Custom MTG cards, increasingly popular for personalization and unique gifts, match the dimensions of standard playing cards.

The dimensions of an MTG card are 2.5 inches x 3.5 inches.

Additional measurements for MTG playing cards are the same as standard playing cards.

How Thick are Playing Cards?

Playing card thickness varies widely across types. For simplicity, let’s focus on standard playing cards, typically printed on 14pt silk with laminate on both sides.

The thickness of a standard playing card is 0.2mm.

Final Thoughts

In summary, whether you’re designing a card game, creating a unique deck for personal use, or simply curious about the various dimensions of playing cards, understanding the different sizes and specifications is crucial. From the standard poker card size to the larger dimensions of tarot and educational cards, each type serves a unique purpose and audience. Remember that the size and thickness of the card can impact not only the gameplay experience but also the aesthetic and functional aspects of the cards.

With this guide, you’re now equipped with the knowledge to make informed decisions about playing card dimensions for your next project or purchase. Happy gaming and card designing!

--

--