beginners APCs swap #1 Hearts USA

This swap is for those we are curious about APCs= Altered Playing Cards, and would like an ongoing swap to start a deck.

APCs are altered playing cards. In general players have a a goal to collect a whole deck of the same theme. It is expected that at least the top corner is left bare or visible to reveal the number and suit. Cards must be Poker Playing cards size. 2.5 x3.5. Cards in general are expect to be vertical not horizontal The top and bottom would be the 2.5, and the sides would be the 3.5 length.

To simplify this swap. The entire theme for the whole deck will be Hearts with a positive word or quote.

Swap #1 will be the Hearts, Ace, 2, and 3, With a different heart and word or quote on each. They can coordinate because the 3 cards most likely would be side by side in a 9 patch baseball card protector.

Tips, I clue down a paper background but dont put glue on the top corner. I lay the paper down and rip of the non glued area. I have seen other carefully cut out that area. You may add color like distress ink to the top corner as long as you can still see the number and suit. These are only suggestions to help you design your 3 cards. I have also used alcohol inks and paints. Another tip is that it is suggested that you use sand paper or something to rough up the surface of the card to get paper or paint to adhere to the slick card surfaces.

Please note if you make a mistake and use slimmer bridge cards that measure 2.25 x 3.25, you will be required to send a quality resend.

Now for the back of the playing card. Often these cards are too slick to use ink on the back for contact info. I use address labels, or stickers or paper on the back. Please do not write on the bare back as it will most likely smear. Using a ball point pen also isnt a good idea. So cover the back somehow. Please attach this info to the back. Do not just slip a piece of paper in with the card.

Mail the cards in mini envelopes, or plastic protective sleeves. Tape the cards down so they do not dance around.

If you have any embellishments thicker than a penny you need to pay 22 cents extra for a non machine-able envelope. You must take this envelope to the PO and hand it to the clerk or it will just get mixed in with the machined mail. You risk damaged mail and the need to resend, if your envelope gets damaged.

Please google APCs if you need more info.

Please PM me with questions or leave the questions in the comments.

Keep in mind this swap is for beginners, but the experienced APC collectors may join. Even beginners are expected to do more than create a background and glue down a bird postage stamp. Add ink, a trim, embellishments, rubber stamp images, paper flowers, etc.