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Playing Card Chat ♠ ♥ ♣ ♦ => Design & Development => Topic started by: davegk on July 14, 2012, 03:06:05 PM
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Greetings all,
I discovered these forums recently and wanted to introduce myself. I'm a graphic designer / poker enthusiast and I've been playing card games in various forms my entire life.
I've been perusing kickstarter quite a bit lately and have been impressed with the results that many of the card deck projects have shown, so after months of conceptualizing, I finally started designing my own deck creation.
It's called Vända (Swedish, meaning 'turn / reverse / shift / flip / twist'). I'm getting ready to print the demo version of the deck that will be used to make the promo video and photos and hope to launch on kickstarter within the next month.
I can't reveal any of the card face designs yet, but I will say that this deck is the most innovative deck I've seen (from a design standpoint). Everyone I've shown it to so far has been blown away and is extremely excited about getting a deck (or a whole bunch of decks). It will have some amazing features that magicians will find useful and a very clean, modern look that designers and card players will drool over.
In the meantime, you can check out the logo on the website: http://www.vandacards.com
I will keep you updated and let you know when the kickstarter project is ready to launch.
update (8/26/12):
Okay, I've decided it's now time to unveil the details of the Vända deck...
Here are the highlights:
- minimalistic, completely innovative deck design
- simple, sleek, bold, and sexy back design
- simple corner symbols (combined card value / suit pip)
- all cards are rotationally-symmetrical (a feature that's completely unique to the Vända deck)
- unique new rotationally-symmetrical center pip symbols for hearts, spades, and clubs
- bold graphic ace designs
- unique diamond-shaped pip layout grid
- typographic court cards
- Bee casino-quality card stock (printed by US playing card company, maker of Bicycle and Bee brands)
magician features:
- three double-backed cards (red, gold, and purple back designs) for flashy color changes
- gimmick card (13 of diamonds)
- plenty of white space on all cards - perfect for signing chosen cards (and visible to an audience)
- smooth color change effect to/from adjoining number cards (2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9, 8-10)
- color change effect from ace of spades to back design
- 'magic' air-cushioned finish for easy handling and flourishing
Attached are some preliminary photos of the proof copy of the deck (better quality photos will be coming soon).
-David
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This looks promising! I looked at the logo for the cards and the portfolio on your website and it all looks very good! I'd love to see the cards.
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Thanks, Evan!
Card images will be posted soon...
I will also point out that I've solved the asymmetry problem that plagues all deck designs that I've ever seen (odd numbers including aces always have a "right side up") - every card in my deck is rotationally symmetrical.
-David
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I guess I should show you something at least...
here's the pip designs
-David
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I will also point out that I've solved the asymmetry problem that plagues all deck designs that I've ever seen (odd numbers including aces always have a "right side up") - every card in my deck is rotationally symmetrical.
-David
That sounds a lot like the Core deck, another Kickstarter project...
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I'm familiar with the Core deck and the only real similarity between that and my Vända deck is the minimalistic design approach - the artwork is completely different and although I have an original pip layout grid, it's nothing at all like the circular layout on the Core design.
Also, the Core deck design doesn't address the rotational asymmetry issue - in fact, it augments the noticeable difference on odd-numbered cards between right-side-up and upside-down.
-David
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I'm familiar with the Core deck and the only real similarity between that and my Vända deck is the minimalistic design approach - the artwork is completely different and although I have an original pip layout grid, it's nothing at all like the circular layout on the Core design.
Also, the Core deck design doesn't address the rotational asymmetry issue - in fact, it augments the noticeable difference on odd-numbered cards between right-side-up and upside-down.
-David
That's cool. Now show us the cards already! :))
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ok, ok...
here's the back design (cobalt edition), the tuckbox front, and the entire tuckbox layout.
Note the tuckbox is a rough version that I did quickly to be printed with the demo version of the deck and there will probably be more info/details added to the final version.
-David
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ok, ok...
here's the back design (cobalt edition), the tuckbox front, and the entire tuckbox layout.
Note the tuckbox is a rough version that I did quickly to be printed with the demo version of the deck and there will probably be more info/details added to the final version.
-David
Hmm... I'm not a design expert, and I'm not saying this is bad, but it's not really grabbing my attention. Granted, I haven't seen a card front yet.
The idea of using all those spades on the back of the card was something I would not have thought of. But I think in this case, it also made it look boring - it's too monotonous. I understand you want a minimal style, but minimal doesn't need to be boring. Ikea furniture - I love the stuff, it's mostly pretty minimal, but there's not much there that you'd call boring.
If you want to get the attention of card flourishers, you'll want to make the corners of your back design POP - they need something that really is striking - and with as thin a border as you can print (or even no border at all). When someone's displaying an attractive fan, it's the corners that become visible. The same will hold true for the indices on the card fronts.
Magicians won't necessarily be put off by boring - an overly-fancy deck can distract the observer's attention too much from the trick for it to have impact. But this really needs something more interesting on the back, I think. Otherwise, just throw a pattern of diamonds or squares on the back and call it a day.
The basic framework you have can work - a center design framed by four identical corner designs. Tally Ho Fan Backs are a prime example of this design, as are Bicycle Rider Backs and more decks out there than I can count. But you want to do something with that back that makes this deck stand out.
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I'm with Don on this one. The back design isn't bad, but it could definitely be better. I do like the front of the box though!
And the pip design is nice.
Also, the shape of the flap on the top of the box looks different.... is this a USPCC deck?
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Admittedly, the back design has been the most controversial aspect of the deck so far...some people love it, others not so much. The faces are where all of the innovation takes place...you'll see soon!
The deck will be printed by USPCC but I'm getting a proof deck from brahma (found out about them on this forum) and they have a different tuck template.
-David
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Without changing the design, I could just swap the colors to match the front of the tuck box...it definitely has more pop.
-David
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That back design looks SO MUCH better! It has an illusion to it also. I love it!
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alternative option (blue corner patterns)
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Three of the extra cards will be double-backs...with different versions for cool color change effects...
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It looks very neat! I like the second back design with the blue corners the best. Since this is the "Cobalt Edition" will you print other colors if it is successful?
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Yes, if this is successful, I plan to release other editions later with different color backs and a different magic gimmick card.
-David
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After printing some samples of different designs and showing them to people, I've decided to simplify the back design a bit since most people found the simpler design to be much more eye-catching.
I'm also going to go with red ("Crimson") for the first edition of the Vända deck. Here's the front designs for the tuck boxes.
The plan is to print the black symbol on red background version and if enough decks sell, I'll offer the inverted version as well as a bonus offer (would print 5000 decks of each). Each backer would then receive an equal number of each of the two decks.
-David
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I don't like the simpler design at all. The other designs you showed were already simple and these are making it too plain.
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I don't like the simpler design at all. The other designs you showed were already simple and these are making it too plain.
I actually find the simpler design more appealing. It's classic and classy, very elegant. I could easily imagine this as an old Arrco deck design.
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It's been really interesting to show printed samples of the back designs and get input from people. Obviously I can't please everyone, but the general consensus was that the simpler designs were far more striking. Also, I think the more complex design might look better on screen but doesn't translate as well to print.
In any case, the simpler design will make more sense once you see the minimalistic front designs as well...coming soon!
-David
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It's been really interesting to show printed samples of the back designs and get input from people. Obviously I can't please everyone, but the general consensus was that the simpler designs were far more striking. Also, I think the more complex design might look better on screen but doesn't translate as well to print.
In any case, the simpler design will make more sense once you see the minimalistic front designs as well...coming soon!
-David
While there are exceptions, the growing trend among major card companies is to create simpler designs - attractive backs, standard faces (perhaps with a unique color scheme). The most popular custom faces we're seeing a lot of would be like the Mechanic Deck, the Artifice deck, the CARC Bee Erdnase decks - still fairly traditional at their core. Zenneth Kok is looking to create a new Bee deck that varies very little from the basic design because he wants to make a deck his audiences will relate with and recognize, that's not much different than what they might use at home while still having a little extra touch of style. One of my favorite faces now would be the Mechanic Deck - I can't get enough of it! Traditional Bicycle faces, but with unique color patterns on the pips that really look cool.
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Perhaps thinner borders :D
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Hmm...I think I'm pretty happy with the thickness of the borders - they look pretty well balanced to the solid color areas. But, I will try thinning them a little to see how it looks - thanks for the suggestion!
-David
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I think thin borders will go nicely with these. And with thinner borders, it looks nicer in fans, spreads, etc.
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thinner borders...
i like em :)
-David
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I love the red deck.
I can't wait to see the faces. :)
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The simpler back design is growing on me :)
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The thinner borders look sexy, bro!
Maybe you should change your topic title? Just "modify" your first post, change the topic there and save - you're golden.
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Thanks and thanks and done....although now the subject of every reply has "cobalt" while the thread topic says "crimson" ...is that confusing?
Evan: glad to hear you're liking the simpler design more now. Once you have the cards in hand you'll like it even more - the digital version doesn't do justice to the simple elegance...these things look fabulous when printed? :)
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Thanks and thanks and done....although now the subject of every reply has "cobalt" while the thread topic says "crimson" ...is that confusing?
Evan: glad to hear you're liking the simpler design more now. Once you have the cards in hand you'll like it even more - the digital version doesn't do justice to the simple elegance...these things look fabulous when printed? :)
It'll be fine. See - my reply already says Crimson!
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hmm...Brahma's design department won't let me print borders that thin, apparently. So, the proof deck might not have such thin borders, but I'm hoping the final deck will...
-David
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hmm...Brahma's design department won't let me print borders that thin, apparently. So, the proof deck might not have such thin borders, but I'm hoping the final deck will...
-David
From what I've heard, Bramha's recent decks have had terrible handling. Plus, you'll probably get more customers if you go with USPCC.
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The actual decks will be printed by USPCC...I'm just getting a proof to use for the promo video/photos.
-David
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I was on the same boat with Evan. I didn't like the simpler design at all, but the more that I look at it, the more I love it!
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The actual decks will be printed by USPCC...I'm just getting a proof to use for the promo video/photos.
-David
Psssst... USPCC will make you a proof.
Having a proof from another company with different printers and paper is kind of missing the point of a proof. If you do go with a cheap proof, DONT talk about how it handles or do any flourishing crap. It won't matter.
---SIDE RANT---
Also, this goes to everyone reviewing decks... slow down the tuck-box spinning. YouTube has horrible bit-rates and even in HD it blurs. Also Also, stop reading the box, we can see what it says.
---END RANT---
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Yes, I know USPCC will make a proof...but they'll also charge $450 for it compared to the $50 proof from Brahma.
I will probably get a USPCC proof deck made before ordering the actual run, to make sure everything looks perfect, but I'd rather not spend that much money before seeing if there's enough interest to actually make the project successful.
If the Brahma proof deck is unusable for demonstration purposes, I can always get a USPCC proof to shoot the video with, but for the low price I figured it was worth a try :)
Also, the Vända deck is designed for more practical magic effects. One of the key features for magicians will be cool-looking color changes, which I think will work fine for the demo even if the cards don't handle as well for flourishes.
-David
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Yes, I know USPCC will make a proof...but they'll also charge $450 for it compared to the $50 proof from Brahma.
I will probably get a USPCC proof deck made before ordering the actual run, to make sure everything looks perfect, but I'd rather not spend that much money before seeing if there's enough interest to actually make the project successful.
If the Brahma proof deck is unusable for demonstration purposes, I can always get a USPCC proof to shoot the video with, but for the low price I figured it was worth a try :)
Also, the Vända deck is designed for more practical magic effects. One of the key features for magicians will be cool-looking color changes, which I think will work fine for the demo even if the cards don't handle as well for flourishes.
-David
USPCC gives you free proofs on their printers as long as you don't require any box assembly or any cards printed with the finish on them.
They print it through their photo printer, but everything seems to be calibrated properly since my proofs were identical to my prototypes which were identical to the final production run, which the exception that the dimples do reduce quality and sharpness.
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But don't I need to submit payment to USPCC for the production run before they'll send a free proof?
-David
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Hi David. Welcome to the discourse, and I have to say I am loving the updated design on your deck. Thinner boarders look more sleek and the simple design compared to the first one is much more appealing to the eyes and I like the deck now. :P
Keep up the good work!
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hmm...Brahma's design department won't let me print borders that thin, apparently. So, the proof deck might not have such thin borders, but I'm hoping the final deck will...
-David
From what I've heard, Bramha's recent decks have had terrible handling. Plus, you'll probably get more customers if you go with USPCC.
It's not terrible handling so much as it is customer issues. That Steampunk deck has been reprinted by them something like six times because there's always something wrong.
When it comes to "proofs", USPC can make a prototype deck for about $250. It was my understanding that simple proof sheets were less expensive than this, as long as you weren't looking for a fully finished product and simply wanted to see if colors, alignment, etc. were all acceptable.
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Heh..."terrible handling" and "customer issues" are two very different problems.
I've approved the artwork proof for my Brahma proof deck so I guess I'll find out for myself in a couple weeks how the quality is on their printing and handling - I'll be sure to post my thoughts on the result here.
-David
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But don't I need to submit payment to USPCC for the production run before they'll send a free proof?
-David
I didn't sign any contracts or pay USPCC a penny until it was time to print the actual decks. By this time, I had received four full deck prototypes, a few proofs from their printer for the tuck case and backs, and .pdf proofs of the finished product.
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Don:
Earlier this month, I was told the following through correspondence with Tiffany at USPCC:
"If you need a mock up deck the cost for that will be added to your contract ($450.00) as an art fee."
Is a "mock up deck" different from the prototype deck you got for $250?
-David
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Don:
Earlier this month, I was told the following through correspondence with Tiffany at USPCC:
"If you need a mock up deck the cost for that will be added to your contract ($450.00) as an art fee."
Is a "mock up deck" different from the prototype deck you got for $250?
-David
From what I understand USPCC recently changed there pricing on the Protodecks to $450 and are now charging $250 for the previously free uncut Proofs. We went with just the uncut Proof since we didn't need a Protodeck to shoot a trailer. The ORNATE trailer is all 3d.
thanks, Randy
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Don:
Earlier this month, I was told the following through correspondence with Tiffany at USPCC:
"If you need a mock up deck the cost for that will be added to your contract ($450.00) as an art fee."
Is a "mock up deck" different from the prototype deck you got for $250?
-David
From what I understand USPCC recently changed there pricing on the Protodecks to $450 and are now charging $250 for the previously free uncut Proofs. We went with just the uncut Proof since we didn't need a Protodeck to shoot a trailer. The ORNATE trailer is all 3d.
thanks, Randy
Wow... glad I don't have to deal with that kind of stuff anymore.
They also charge $25 per uncut sheet now, whereas before they used to be the cost of a deck.
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The quote I received listed uncut sheets at $5 each...that was dated July 3rd.
-David
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The quote I received listed uncut sheets at $5 each...that was dated July 3rd.
-David
Glad to see they dropped the price back down, I still have their "2012 contract" that has it at $25 each. My guess is they got a lot of complaints. :P
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Don:
Earlier this month, I was told the following through correspondence with Tiffany at USPCC:
"If you need a mock up deck the cost for that will be added to your contract ($450.00) as an art fee."
Is a "mock up deck" different from the prototype deck you got for $250?
-David
From what I understand USPCC recently changed there pricing on the Protodecks to $450 and are now charging $250 for the previously free uncut Proofs. We went with just the uncut Proof since we didn't need a Protodeck to shoot a trailer. The ORNATE trailer is all 3d.
thanks, Randy
The quote I received listed uncut sheets at $5 each...that was dated July 3rd.
-David
Glad to see they dropped the price back down, I still have their "2012 contract" that has it at $25 each. My guess is they got a lot of complaints. :P
Is it just me, or does USPC's pricing seem to change with the winds? In a tornado?
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So I was just looking through the kickstarter reward guidelines and it clearly states:
What's prohibited:
[...]
Rewards in bulk quantities (more than ten of an item)
Obviously every card deck project on the site so far has offered bulk rewards - was this a recent change by kickstarter, or do they just let this rule slide?
-David
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So I was just looking through the kickstarter reward guidelines and it clearly states:
What's prohibited:
[...]
Rewards in bulk quantities (more than ten of an item)
Obviously every card deck project on the site so far has offered bulk rewards - was this a recent change by kickstarter, or do they just let this rule slide?
-David
I have never seen this before, so it's either new or not enforced. KS has a lot of policies it doesn't enforce. Penny Arcade made a project to pay their bills, and that is expressly prohibited. Tons of projects hold contests and raffles, also prohibited.
Your best bet is to ignore that rule, and if KS gives you any problem, you cite tons of other projects that break the rule as well. You can also inquire to KS as to when the rule was added (for example if it's a week old, then that explains why no project to date has abided by it).
I'd tell you just contact KS and ask, but at least when I ran my project, they were very unresponsive and offered very little help until I pestered them for days.
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That sounds reasonable...
I had submitted a logo design project a few months ago that wasn't approved and I have no idea why since it was very similar to several other projects that had already been successful. I think the scope of my project may not have been made entirely clear but I contacted them to find out what specifically the reason was and never heard back.
In other news, I'm about to launch a separate graphic design project on kickstarter (pending approval currently). Is it acceptable to post the link in this thread? I think it would definitely give y'all a clear idea of how much time/effort/attention to detail I put into my design projects :)
-David
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That sounds reasonable...
I had submitted a logo design project a few months ago that wasn't approved and I have no idea why since it was very similar to several other projects that had already been successful. I think the scope of my project may not have been made entirely clear but I contacted them to find out what specifically the reason was and never heard back.
In other news, I'm about to launch a separate graphic design project on kickstarter (pending approval currently). Is it acceptable to post the link in this thread? I think it would definitely give y'all a clear idea of how much time/effort/attention to detail I put into my design projects :)
-David
You can make a separate thread for it if you want, the D&D board is not just for cards. My philosophy is smack people blatantly advertising ("BUY NOW AT MY SITE!!") but promote people who are working to accomplish awesome stuff (i.e. KS projects).
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cool...well, once it gets approved I'll create a new thread and probably link to it from here as well then :)
some awesome design stuff coming soon!
Also, I heard from Brahma today...my proof deck is printed and the protective coating is drying so they should be shipping it to me in 3 days.
-David
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I'm hoping you have a good experience with Brahma. The kid who Kickstarted the Steampunk deck has been having a lot of problems - Brahma at last count had to print his deck six times, and the decks he started shipping were so poor in quality he had to recall them.
Don't get me wrong, though. I have many samples of Brahma's work and they're capable of putting out some fine playing cards. This kid's deck seems to be the exception rather than the rule.
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well, as i said, this is just a proof deck to make the promo video and photos...the actual decks will be USPCC
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Officially announcing my first kickstarter project launch!
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/goldklangdesign/genius-posters-postcards-magnets
facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/thegeniusquotes
official page:
http://www.thegeniusquotes.com
I'll post this in a new thread as well - please share with everyone!
Thanks,
David
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You just got my hopes up that it was the new deck... darn...
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hehe, sorry - no deck yet...sooooon.
posters are just as exciting though :)
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I was on the same boat with Evan. I didn't like the simpler design at all, but the more that I look at it, the more I love it!
Wow, same exact thing here. I was a bit disappointed when I saw the change, but after a while of looking at it, I actually am starting to like it a lot! Now show us the faces!
Also, I like the way you designed the posters. I won't pledge, but I think they look very nice and the quotes are very interesting. PS: I saw your picture in your kickstarter profile. Are you from San Francisco, CA?
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Thanks for the kudos, Nathan!
Please tell everyone you know about the poster project - the larger fan base I can accumulate with this current project, the more potential backers I'll have for the Vända deck and I would love to be able to offer both inversions of the red/black back design (which means selling enough decks to make it feasible).
Yes, I'm from San Francisco (well across the bridge, just north of SF).
-David
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El Sobrante, Tiburón...? I'm from Oakland, so I know the area pretty well.
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Thanks for the kudos, Nathan!
Please tell everyone you know about the poster project - the larger fan base I can accumulate with this current project, the more potential backers I'll have for the Vända deck and I would love to be able to offer both inversions of the red/black back design (which means selling enough decks to make it feasible).
Yes, I'm from San Francisco (well across the bridge, just north of SF).
-David
I have family in the other side of the bay from there. Went there a few summers ago for an aikido seminar held up north in the woods - at the CYO camp in Occidental.
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Grew up in Mill Valley (Marin county)...I'm moving into SF proper later this month though - yay fog!
Proof deck was supposed to be delivered today but DHL came by when nobody was home - will have it in hand monday...gotta wait all weekend now - d'oh!
-David
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Proof deck was supposed to be delivered today but DHL came by when nobody was home - will have it in hand monday...gotta wait all weekend now - d'oh!
-David
If the company has Saturday delivery service (and most of them do), their offices might be open at well - you could make an in-person pickup... It's worth checking out, unless you have a busy, action-packed weekend to look forward to already.
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already called...the delivery guy wouldn't get back to the office today before they closed at 6 and they're not open again until monday...oh well - I'll just work on other projects in the meantime.
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Proof deck arrived today from Brahma...
The quality is a bit lower than I had expected :(
The deck is a bit warped so individual cards don't lay flat on a smooth surface, there's smudges on a lot of cards (some cleanable, some not), the cutting is off-centered (severely off-centered on a couple of cards), the box printing is blurry and the plastic coating on it is peeling off at the edges.
That said, the quality of the printing on the cards themselves is excellent, as is the paper stock. But without the air-cushion magic finish, they of course don't fan very cleanly. I think they will work for my demo purposes, but I wouldn't recommend using them for flourishes.
A couple photos below of the box and back...front designs to be revealed soon... :D
-David
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Quality issues aside, it looks like what you want it to look like? It's as you envisioned?
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Well, yes...
I've been designing for print for over ten years so I'm quite familiar with the process and I generally have a very clear idea of how something will look printed before I get an actual hard copy in hand.
As mentioned earlier in the thread, I'm expecting the white borders to be thinner on the final decks produced by USPCC (the current thickness was a limitation of margin width imposed by Brahma). I may add to the box design a bit on the sides, top, and bottom but I'm not sure yet. Otherwise everything looks the way I want - the colors are perfect (designer black: C:70,M:50,Y:30,K:100 and bright red: C:0,M:100,Y:100,K:0).
-David
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I would call this the Virginia Slim deck.
"You've come a long way babe"
I was very "meh" when you started
but now
The back is so simple but yet so sophisticated.
The red is spot on. I don't know if any other color would have worked that well
I like this a lot.
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Here's the three double-back cards that will be included in the deck (for sweet color changes, or could be used as jokers)...
-David
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I'm really digging the purple and the yellow ones. :P
its excited to see your visions come to reality. =^-^=
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Okay, I've decided it's now time to unveil the details of the Vända deck...
Here are the highlights:
- minimalistic, completely innovative deck design
- simple, sleek, bold, and sexy back design
- simple corner symbols (combined card value / suit pip)
- all cards are rotationally-symmetrical (a feature that's completely unique to the Vända deck)
- unique new rotationally-symmetrical center pip symbols for hearts, spades, and clubs
- bold graphic ace designs
- unique diamond-shaped pip layout grid
- typographic court cards
- Bee casino-quality card stock (printed by US playing card company, maker of Bicycle and Bee brands)
magician features:
- three double-backed cards (red, gold, and purple back designs) for flashy color changes
- gimmick card (13 of diamonds)
- plenty of white space on all cards - perfect for signing chosen cards (and visible to an audience)
- smooth color change effect to/from adjoining number cards (2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9, 8-10)
- color change effect from ace of spades to back design
- 'magic' air-cushioned finish for easy handling and flourishing
Attached are some preliminary photos of the proof copy of the deck (better quality photos will be coming soon).
-David
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The faces are nothing like I was expecting! I like the minimalistic idea and I'm also liking how unique this deck is.
One thing that I don't rally like is the indices. I don't think the number should be in the suit.
EDIT: I also think that the Ace of Spades needs to be changed completely.
Any release date or kickstarter launch date?
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WOMG! wow! I never expected that! I find the court cards beautiful, and the indexes very interesting. Please keep them. As for the messed up center pip to keep "rotational symetry" as you call it, this took me a while to get used to, but I guess it isn't bad either. However, I agree with Evan regarding the Ace of Spades. I think it's too repetitive, having the design on the box, back design AND ace of spades. Plus it doesn't look nice on a white back design IMO. If you could add the bicycle logo on the front of the box, that would also be great.
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I'm hoping to release/launch on kickstarter in the next two weeks, but it will depend on the video production timeline (availability of the people helping me).
Evan: I'm curious why you think the indices should not have the value contained within the symbol.
As for the ace of spades design, the concept is that it creates a powerful color change effect when changed to any back design or one of the double back cards.
Also, I had considered using the Bicycle logo on the tuck box design but given the unique from-the-ground-up design of the deck, I thought the Vända branding would be more appropriate.
More detailed images to come...
-David
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Wow they look awesome! The court cards are do custom too :)
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They look awesome especially the court cards! I want it :)
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I really like your deck David! Very clean and classy, and the deck definitely doesn't need the Bicycle branding.
Are the other Aces also arranged in the same circular format as the Ace of Spades?
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Thanks, Ncyclopedia!
yes, all aces share that same design structure (and rotational symmetry)...
-David
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I actually really like all the other aces. I just don't know why, but I find the AoS too repetitive. Maybe having a normal, big Spade pip with the Vanda design in its center in white would also be cool?
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I realize that it's traditional to do something different with the ace of spades and maybe that's why you're stuck on the fact that my AoS doesn't stand out. However, since my deck design breaks most other traditions (which is the entire point - to create a completely innovative design), it makes perfect sense to me that I should not follow this general tendency.
The AoS is the highest ranking card in the deck in most games and therefore deserves to be special in some way. I feel that I've achieved this 'specialness' by the mere use of repetition - the symbol is given extra importance by being showcased as the icon with which the deck becomes identifiable.
-David
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I realize that it's traditional to do something different with the ace of spades and maybe that's why you're stuck on the fact that my AoS doesn't stand out. However, since my deck design breaks most other traditions (which is the entire point - to create a completely innovative design), it makes perfect sense to me that I should not follow this general tendency.
The AoS is the highest ranking card in the deck in most games and therefore deserves to be special in some way. I feel that I've achieved this 'specialness' by the mere use of repetition - the symbol is given extra importance by being showcased as the icon with which the deck becomes identifiable.
-David
Yes, I guess you are right. Anyways, who am I to criticize? I don't know why this little detail was bothering me. Maybe it's because compared to the red/black contrast on the back of the cards and on the box, I thought it wasn't as impressive.
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Well, I am very much open to input and I will seriously consider any suggestions that are made. I appreciate your feedback.
Thanks,
David
I realize that it's traditional to do something different with the ace of spades and maybe that's why you're stuck on the fact that my AoS doesn't stand out. However, since my deck design breaks most other traditions (which is the entire point - to create a completely innovative design), it makes perfect sense to me that I should not follow this general tendency.
The AoS is the highest ranking card in the deck in most games and therefore deserves to be special in some way. I feel that I've achieved this 'specialness' by the mere use of repetition - the symbol is given extra importance by being showcased as the icon with which the deck becomes identifiable.
-David
Yes, I guess you are right. Anyways, who am I to criticize? I don't know why this little detail was bothering me. Maybe it's because compared to the red/black contrast on the back of the cards and on the box, I thought it wasn't as impressive.
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I've been working on the website and making some progress.
Be sure to check it out:
www.vandacards.com
I've added a mailing list signup form - currently located on the 'order' page. If you'd like to be added to the mailing list to receive updates on the kickstarter launch and future deck designs, please sign up there.
Thanks!
-David
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Just gotta put together the video and add details on some of the rewards, but otherwise the kickstarter page is close to launching...
temporary page: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/goldklangdesign/10882206?token=005db9f7
-David
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and facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/V%C3%A4nda-playing-cards/139114036231643
please like and share with friends :)
Thanks!
-David
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Good luck with selling more than 10/12 at a time. Kickstarter approved mine with packages up to 144 then they dropped the hammer and said I had to get rid of them.
I'd update your KS page before you go live.
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Good luck with selling more than 10/12 at a time. Kickstarter approved mine with packages up to 144 then they dropped the hammer and said I had to get rid of them.
I'd update your KS page before you go live.
Weird...many of the deck projects I've seen have been selling larger quantities without problems...when was your project launched?
Did they just ask you to remove the larger quantity rewards or did they stop the project entirely?
Thanks,
David
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nevermind about the when question...just looked at your link in your signature...
was it for the quicksilver deck they hammered you for large quantities, or for the earlier decks as well?
-David
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It is a new rule they started enforcing on Aug 2nd, I believe. The rules states no more than 10 of an item, they let me do 12 because of the 'brick' box it was packaged in. And no, you can't sell 1 gross as 1 item. Even if they 'approved' your reward levels right now, they will come after you in the middle of your project. This is bad because it removes you from the 'search' and 'discover' parts of the site, only direct links to your page work. If you don't comply, they can cancel your whole project.
Just a heads, up. I'd make the changes before launch.
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It is a new rule they started enforcing on Aug 2nd, I believe. The rules states no more than 10 of an item, they let me do 12 because of the 'brick' box it was packaged in. And no, you can't sell 1 gross as 1 item. Even if they 'approved' your reward levels right now, they will come after you in the middle of your project. This is bad because it removes you from the 'search' and 'discover' parts of the site, only direct links to your page work. If you don't comply, they can cancel your whole project.
Just a heads, up. I'd make the changes before launch.
Ok, thanks for the heads up!
I had asked about that restriction earlier in this thread but nobody knew if it was a new rule or an old one that just hadn't been enforced...I will restructure the bulk quantity rewards.
-David
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...plus you need to work out more details about that magic party reward. As well as the Vegas reward.
And what's the magician's reward all about?
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Yup, working out details for those rewards right now...I can give you a little insight as to what I have in mind though...
The magician's special is specifically for performing magicians who are interested in using the Vända deck in their performances. It includes 24 decks that will be available for pickup only in san francisco or los angeles (I will consider offering these shipped at cost of shipping to whatever the specific location is). Also included will be a stack of promotional cards to hand out to anyone interested in finding out more about the cards.
The magic party will be hosted in Los Angeles and will feature a collection (probably 5-10) of world-class magicians (members of the world famous magic castle - http://www.magiccastle.org) who will be performing amazing closeup magic. The party will be sponsored by Magixology (http://www.magixology.com) - drinks will be included in the price (although I have to figure out how to say that without violating kickstarter terms). There will also be an opportunity to get decks (or uncut sheets) signed by these magicians.
As for Vegas, I'm working out the details, but the basic idea is it will be a weekend in vegas - all-expenses included (except gambling) and backers will get VIP tickets to 2-3 top vegas magic shows and the opportunity to meet the performing magicians backstage and get decks or other items autographed. There may also be a night of hanging out (drinking, magic, and possibly poker...) with some of the most famous magicians in the world.
-David
...plus you need to work out more details about that magic party reward. As well as the Vegas reward.
And what's the magician's reward all about?
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Something else I've been wondering about is whether I should list the cards under the category of
'Games > Board & Card Games'
or
'Design > Graphic Design'
or
'Design > Product Design'
thoughts?
-David
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rewards list updated...
-David
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Something else I've been wondering about is whether I should list the cards under the category of
'Games > Board & Card Games'
or
'Design > Graphic Design'
or
'Design > Product Design'
thoughts?
-David
I did mine as a top level Design project. That ended up lumping me in with lots of iPhone accessories and home goods, but it was fun to kick all their butts.
I don't think it's terribly critical because your first big batches of traffic will come from these forums. If you can get massive traffic over the first days, it will increase your chance of being "popular" or a staff pick, which is where you really want to be. Being in those categories will get you a lot more casual viewers.
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Product design is a good choice, so is art, which is where I submitted mine. Toys & Games is another great place to submit. Remember that your goal is to be the top position in your category. Product design can get more hits than art, but being #1 in art is far superior to being #35 in product design.
Start hyping up your deck everywhere. Find the line between good marketing and spamming, pretty much. Never cross, but tread alongside it, and I see no reason you can't hit at least $20-30k or more.
If I have some extra funds lying around I'll be backing this for sure. It's a wonderful design and minimalism is where it's at. :)
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Rough prototype for the wooden storage box. It snugly holds 2 decks of cards. The final version will have smooth edges/corners and a different lid opening mechanism (it will probably slide in place from the side). Considering different materials and finish options as well...
Availability will be limited to 100.
Also I made these wooden promotional tokens. I may include one as a bonus reward for each backer. Also might get these made out of metal.
-David
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Those look incredible! I hope I can get my hands on the box and token!
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Thanks, Evan!
Everyone has been really excited about the box design so far...and that's just a very rough version, too - the final box is gonna be gorgeous. I'm also considering making a single-deck wooden sleeve-type box that's open at the top.
Here's a couple photos of the tokens and the cards taken by a photographer friend, David Bishop (http://davidbishopstudios.com)...
-David
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I just got official approval from kickstarter so Vända is ready to launch!
Planning to launch this sunday evening - I'll be sending out an email update tonight to the mailing list with more details.
Subscribe here: http://www.vandacards.com/order
-David
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Officially launching tomorrow (sept 9th) at 6pm PST.
I've expanded the early backer $6/deck reward to a limit of 20 backers.
I've also added a 1-deck slip-case box that will be similar in design to the 2-deck wooden box (details to come soon) as a $65 reward level.
I've added a $250 reward package that includes 10 decks, 2-deck wooden box, uncut sheet, and art print.
-David
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Officially launching tomorrow (sept 9th) at 6pm PST.
I've expanded the early backer $6/deck reward to a limit of 20 backers.
I've also added a 1-deck slip-case box that will be similar in design to the 2-deck wooden box (details to come soon) as a $65 reward level.
I've added a $250 reward package that includes 10 decks, 2-deck wooden box, uncut sheet, and art print.
-David
The price doesn't work out on the $250 deal. All of those reward levels put together + the 4 extra decks ( even at 10 a piece ) only adds up to $220 by my calculations
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Officially launching tomorrow (sept 9th) at 6pm PST.
I've expanded the early backer $6/deck reward to a limit of 20 backers.
I've also added a 1-deck slip-case box that will be similar in design to the 2-deck wooden box (details to come soon) as a $65 reward level.
I've added a $250 reward package that includes 10 decks, 2-deck wooden box, uncut sheet, and art print.
-David
The price doesn't work out on the $250 deal. All of those reward levels put together + the 4 extra decks ( even at 10 a piece ) only adds up to $220 by my calculations
Hmm...you're correct! I must have been thinking of something different when I put that package together...will revise tomorrow before launch...probably reduce price on that reward.
Thanks for pointing that out!
David
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Reduced the package reward from $250 to $175. Also added a $100 reward level that includes 10 decks and a 24"x36" poster design.
-David
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Now that you're project is active, could you create a post for it in the Playing Card Plethora? It's no longer a design project - it's live!
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yup...or can you move my new thread there?
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yup...or can you move my new thread there?
I lack the power to move anything in Design and Development. Just repost some of this info into a new PCP topic announcing that your Kickstarter project is live and awaiting investors.
To move some posts from here to there with a new topic name, you'd have to ask Curt, Alex or Peuan.
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looks like Vända made its way into the Magic Castle: http://instagram.com/p/RV-9EAElcT/ (http://instagram.com/p/RV-9EAElcT/)