How to Design Custom MTG Cards That Look Authentic

Creating a custom Magic card is easy. Creating one that looks like a real Magic card is an art form. Here are the top tips for accurate card design using TCGCustom.

1. Syntax is Sacred

Wizards of the Coast uses very specific templating language.

• Bad: "When this creature dies, draw a card."
• Good: "When ~ dies, draw a card." (where ~ is the card name)

Also, pay attention to capitalization. Subtypes are always capitalized (e.g., "Creature — Elf Warrior", not "elf warrior").

2. The Mana Symbol Order

There is a strict order for mana symbols in the casting cost:

1. Generic (
   
   ,
   
   )
2. White (
   
   )
3. Blue (
   
   )
4. Black (
   
   )
5. Red (
   
   )
6. Green (
   
   )

If you have a multicolor card, follow the "shortest path around the color pie" rule. For example, Green-White is usually

(adjacent), but Red-White is .

3. Art Selection

The art makes the card. Real MTG art usually has a specific oil-painted or digital-painted style.

• Avoid cartoony or anime styles unless you are going for a specific "Secret Lair" look.
• Ensure the focal point of the art is centered and not obscured by the frame.

4. Reminder Text

Use standard reminder text for complex keywords.

• Flying (This creature can't be blocked except by creatures with flying or reach.)
• Trample (This creature can deal excess combat damage to the player or planeswalker it's attacking.)

Our editor has helper tools to insert these symbols correctly. Use them!

5. Don't Overstuff

The most common mistake is too much text. If your font size has to be 6pt to fit the text, the card is too complicated. Try to simplify the effect. Real cards rarely have more than 6-7 lines of rules text.

Ready to try it out? Go to the Home Page and start creating.