MTG Proxy Printing Primer
Last Updated: July 2025
This primer provides an overview of common methods to create and print high-quality MTG proxies at home or via MPCFill. It distills practical tips gathered from the Magic Proxies Discord and MPCFill communities.
- No affiliate links. No manufacturer affiliations.
- Focus: quality, repeatability, and realistic card feel.
Quick Start
Use the sections below to dive into image prep, rendering, assembly, gear, print shop details, advanced holo/foil techniques, troubleshooting, and a glossary. Each page mirrors the clean reading layout used in our terms page.
Table of Contents
Methods & Media
The most popular home method is adhesive-backed vinyl sticker paper applied to commons. It preserves the authentic card back, keeps overall thickness close to factory, and produces sharp, vibrant results on quality glossy media. Thick glossy photo paper is faster (no adhesive step) and yields bright whites and readable text, yet feels slightly thinner/less rigid unless you back it with thin cardstock. True blue/black core cardstock requires pro equipment or third-party printing (e.g., MPC).
General Guidance
- Image clarity/vibrancy: inkjet glossy photo ≥ holo/foil sticker paper.
- Rigidity/thickness feel: blue/black core ≈ sticker-on-common.
- Aim for 800–1200 PPI renders; keep shared images ≤ 30 MB.