Address labels are OK. But I'm a bit wary of them, but rather have them than nothing. I have had to use stickers on cards that would not accept pen work (photo paper).
I have collected papers for years, and not fond of labels as I have seen them become detatched over years, but maybe new glues, acid free papers and glues, it is now different. I rather have labels on the back than nothing.
I do think some of the art cards ARE fun when done on actual playing cards. And there are commercial printed fancy backs available for purchase readily at rubber stamp shops, so you are likely to see more and more. Same with all things stuck to one another the above paragraph applies.
If you write on the back, use acid free pens. Sharpie pens will often show through to the other side. Test before printing on the back, to make sure it won't show through.
I use Mircon and special Pilot pens.
Most playing cards are 2.5x3.5" - The common 'bicycle' brand found in most supermarkets are. I carry these around in my handbag to check for ACEO sized frames and displays. Very handy idea/tip! :)
I was under the impression that some playing cards were smaller rather than larger, being 2.25", rather than 2.5"
I got a painting on a playing card as an ACEO, I love it. But unfortunately I don't think they gesso'd it, and a piece of the paint chipped off. That is when I discovered it had been done on a playing card - the 'heart' of the playing card was showing through.
You can purchase playing card blanks to create ATCs out of.
Forgot to say - often you do need to put the type of paper, and if the work is sealed or unsealed - I have received notes on 'care of artwork' and these are gratefully received together with the card, especially for pencil work and pastels.
Katey is right. You might think your signature is OK right now. But think what someone in the future, even if it is your great great grandchild might want to know.
Really take a good look at what you write. If you write 'Tina' and a scrawled signature, is this going to mean something to someone later?
A micron pen you can get from most craft and art stores - in a craft store go to scrapbooking. They state they are acid free.
You can buy a spray called 'make it acid free' by Krylon. You can spray paper that you suspect is not acid free. The best adhesive I have heard of is 'Yes'. You need to make sure that it is acid free and wrinkle free - there are good ones in scrapbooking sections.
I personally LOVE my xyron machine. Like a 'wringer' you feed your paper in one side, turn a handle, and it comes out all glued up like a sticker the other side. No problems with wrinkles. The xyron I have is 250 - it is 2.5" wide, so perfect for ACEOs. You can get both permanent and temporary sticker refills.
~Jillian
~Jillian
artist, Jillian Crider
... google me!
