Ever wondered what the dimensions of a playing card are and why it even matters? If you're in the packaging industry or design, printing, or game development, you know that size isn’t just a detail. It’s the foundation of packaging design and product safety.
Whether you're customizing tuck boxes or creating packaging for a new card game, knowing the correct card and box dimensions is essential.
This guide will cover every detail, from standard sizes to box dimensions, and even card pixel sizes for print.
Let’s break it down, so you can design precisely and package like a pro. By the end, you’ll understand sizes and how to use them to create packaging that stands out.
Why Packaging Matters For Playing Cards?
Packaging does more than just protect your playing cards. It elevates your brand. With attractive designs and a quality feel, customers are more likely to trust your product. Plus, it makes storage and retail display easier.
Playing card boxes also serves as a communication tool. Your packaging showcases your product and tells the story of your brand. It helps to create a bond with your audience.
We specialize in crafting custom packaging that doesn’t just fit but also sells. Whether these are luxury magnetic closure boxes or functional tuck boxes, we help you deliver impact at first glance.
Standard Playing Card Dimensions
The most commonly used size for playing cards is the poker size, often referred to as the industry standard. It is explained below:
Inches: 2.5 in x 3.5 in
Centimeters: 6.4 cm x 8.9 cm
Millimeters: 64 mm x 89 mm
Pixels (300 DPI for print): 750 px x 1050 px
Aspect Ratio: 7:10
These dimensions are ideal for shuffling and packaging. They offer perfect visibility and manageability. If you're producing a standard poker deck, these measurements ensure compatibility with packaging and other accessories.
When designing packaging, make sure your box allows a snug fit. But, there should be enough room for easy removal, but it must also be secure enough to prevent damage during shipping or storage.
Types of Playing Cards and Their Sizes
Not all playing cards are created equal. Let’s explore different variations:
1. Poker Playing Card Dimensions
These are the most popular general-purpose decks for custom packaging. They are great for magic tricks and promotional purposes. They measure 2.5” x 3.5”.
2. Bridge Playing Cards
They are preferred in games like Bridge where players hold many cards. These are slightly slimmer than poker cards. It means they require smaller packaging and have lighter shipping weight. Their dimensions are 2.25” x 3.5”.
3. Hexagon Playing Card Dimensions
Hexagon cards have a custom shape and are around 3’ across from side to side. These are excellent for board games and creating custom decks. They require special packaging, which includes rigid boxes or inserts with dividers.
4. Pokemon Card Dimensions
These cards are used for a famous trading card game. They’re often packaged with sleeves and require a slightly larger box. Their dimensions are the same as poker cards.
5. Greeting Card Dimensions
The standard greeting card size in inches is 5’’ x 7’’. They often require flat envelopes or rigid mailers.
6. Bicycle Playing Card Dimensions
Bicycle is a brand, and its card dimensions match industry standards. These cards also follow the standard poker size. They’re known for their durability and premium feel.
When designing packaging, it’s important to know the type of card inside to create the perfect fit. An oversized or undersized box looks unprofessional and can cause damage in transit.
Playing Card Box Dimensions
The dimensions of a playing card box are just as important as the card itself. Let’s review some examples and answer some queries in this regard:
Standard Tuck Box Dimensions
This box can hold a deck of poker-sized cards. Its dimensions are 2.625" x 3.625" x 0.75". These boxes are great for retail and shipping, as they are affordable.
Bicycle Playing Card Box Dimensions
They match the standard tuck box size. However, these boxes may include some branding-based adjustments in design.
What Size Should a Card Box Be?
It depends on the size and number of cards. Always allow a 1 to 2 mm buffer for easy packaging. Also, consider if your boxes need packaging sleeves or dividers.
What Size is a Playing Card Case?
Their average dimensions are 9” x 5” x 2.5”. These cases are perfect for wholesale packaging.
How Many Boxes of Cards are in a Case?
These are made to hold 12 decks of cards. But, it can vary for special editions or promotional sets.
Pro tip: Use rigid materials for collector or high-end sets, and eco-friendly options for mass-market games. Boxes also offer a great branding opportunity, so use every inch wisely.
Playing Card Templates and Design for Packaging
If you're designing a custom deck, start with the right playing card template. A proper template includes:
Bleed area: Extra space for edge-to-edge printing. This is usually 1/8 inch on all sides.
Trim line: Final cut line for the card.
Safe zone: Ensures text/logos aren’t trimmed off. Make sure to keep the important content 1/8 inch inside the trim.
These guidelines are crucial for both cards and boxes. Many packaging mishaps occur because bleed and trim areas are neglected. Using a professionally made template ensures your design prints correctly without unwanted cropping.
Also, remember to design in CMYK color mode and 300 DPI resolution for print-ready files. RGB might look great on screen, but it won't match in print. DPI matters especially for text clarity and image sharpness.
For packaging, ask your manufacturer for dielines. These are packaging templates that include fold and glue flaps. They also have window cutout areas, which are essential for a clean final product.
Tips for Designing and Packaging Playing Cards
Creating a great unboxing experience starts with good packaging. Here’s how:
- Use clear and readable fonts on the box
- Avoid too much gloss that may affect shuffling or grip
- Consider add-ons such as foil stamping, embossing, spot UV, and window cuts
- Use high-quality materials that reflect your brand’s value
Different box packaging types include:
Tuck Box - Most common, cost-effective. Good for retail decks.
Rigid Box - Premium, durable, ideal for collector editions and luxury products.
Magnetic Flap - Stylish and secure. Great for special releases or subscription boxes.
If you want eco-friendly options, go for kraft paper or recycled cardstock. These appeal to eco-conscious consumers and set your product apart on the shelf.
Remember, the box is often the first physical interaction your customer has with your product. So, make it memorable for them.
Also Read: Packaging Types Explained: Materials, Functions, and Benefits
Summing Up:
Knowing the exact dimensions of a playing card and its packaging options gives you a serious edge. From ensuring print-ready designs to fitting the right tuck box, the right details matter.
A properly designed box not only protects but also enhances the perceived value of the cards inside. At Custom Designs Boxes, we combine precise measurements with creative packaging solutions to help you stand out in the market.
With years of experience and a focus on detail, we’re here to guide you from concept to creation. Contact us today via email at sales@customdesignsboxes.com and let’s design packaging that plays to win.
