Deck View: Bicycle Sparrow Hanafuda Playing Cards

Flower. Japan. Beautiful.

Designed by Juniardi Satyanagara and produced by PlayingCardDecks, the Bicycle Sparrow Hanafuda playing cards features a beautiful design inspired by traditional Japanese hanafuda cards, often known as "flower cards." 

The deck showcases sparrows in flight, with the back design highlighting a two-way image of a sparrow soaring over a red sun, framed by wavy red lines. The cards also have a connected  cigar band-styled effect when spread, adding to their visual appeal. The jokers depict sparrows with a backdrop of either clouds or solid red. 

Additionally, the deck includes a double backer and a blank face card, perfect for magic tricks. With a thicker, casino-grade stock, the deck feels snappy and crisp, ideal for handling. Printed by USPCC on Classic Stock with Traditional Cut.

Kardify Magazine Issue 91 Now on Patreon!

 

We just dropped Kardify Magazine Issue 91 on Patreon! Patrons who pledged $3 or more will be able to download the latest issue from our Patreon page. This issue compiles selected articles published from mid-November to mid-December. Deck images, articles, and news to keep you informed and up-to-date with the latest playing card news, releases, and previews. If you love playing cards, you will love Kardify Magazine!

Also, don’t forget to check out our other cool reward tiers on Patreon! The tiers include monthly desktop and smartphone wallpapers, a mystery deck shipped to you every 4 months of ongoing contributions, social media shout-outs, and multiple sponsorship tiers! Check it out!

Funds received from the magazine will help us keep the site running and growing, and bring new quality content to you. Our aim is to support designers by backing crowdfunded projects and supporting magic and playing cards retailers with their new releases. If you want to support us, please head over to our Patreon page. If you have an idea for an article you would like us to pursue, do get in contact with us. We hope you enjoy the read. In this issue:   

+ Elf: Celebrate the timeless holiday classic Elf with theory11’s festive decK wrapped in striking green, gold, and red foil. 

+ Shipwreck: This Ellusionist deck isn’t just another custom deck, it’s a utility deck for magicians, featuring 52 marked cards, and 6 exclusive gaffs. Find out more!

+ Chinese Legal Tender: A beautiful and meticulously designed deck by Kings Wild Project inspired by the intricate beauty of Chinese currency. 

+ Game of Thrones: Have a look at Theory11's Game of Thrones Playing Cards inspired by HBO’s legendary series. Designed by Peter Voth, this stunning deck takes you on a journey through Westeros. 

+ Artisan Silver Edition: Theory11’s Artisan Silver Edition is here—a dazzling addition to the Artisan family, showcasing stunning silver foil on both the card backs and faces.

+ Wicked: This eye-catching Theory11 deck captures the untold story of the witches of Oz, featuring a stunning blend of green and gold foil that evokes the magic of the Emerald City. Check it out!

+ The Return of the Green Man: Jocu's latest crowd-funded deck invite you to step into the enchanting world of forest folklore, celebrating the myths, magic, and legends of the plant kingdom. 

… and more! 44 pages of articles and deck images. Enjoy!

Sleep Walk Playing Cards by TCC & Lunzi

TCC's Sleep Walk Playing Cards showcase the artistry of Lunzi, blending elegant hand-drawn illustrations with a vintage-inspired design. Each card is meticulously crafted with dip pen illustrations, creating delicate lines that embody a retro charm and maintaining a playful and modern aesthetic. 

Inside, the deck’s light yellow background mirrors the natural tone of aged paper, enhancing its nostalgic appeal with each use. The illustrations are deeply connected to the dream theme, featuring symbolic elements like “zzz” for peaceful rest, teddy bears for childhood comfort, and even a hidden wolf among the flock of sheep on the card backs—a clever twist on the classic imagery of counting sheep. 

 
The cards also incorporate Lunzi’s signature style with cornerless designs and Dexter-inspired indices, making suits and symbols easily recognizable while adding a unique touch to the number cards. 

The special edition flips the color scheme, introducing inverted hues and adorable sheep-themed suits. The Ace of Hearts features a creative alarm clock design, disrupting the tradition of the Ace of Spades as the highlight and reinforcing the dream theme with a sense of fun and whimsy. 

Both editions are housed in embossed tuck boxes, featuring semi-gloss finishes and intricate illustrations that echo the artistic depth of the cards inside. The special half-brick box set, limited to 300, contains a gilded deck with a sparkling blue and black design reminiscent of a starry night sky—perfect for collectors. 

Pledge starts from $12 on Kickstarter.

Flip of the Dragon: Bruce Lee Animation Playing Card

The Flip of the Dragon: Bruce Lee Animation Deck is a tribute to the legendary Bruce Lee (Lee Siu Long), the "Little Dragon," perfectly timed for the Year of the Dragon in 2024. Hong Kong-based designer, Tiny, released on Kickstarter what would have been Bruce Lee's 84th birthday, this officially licensed deck celebrates his martial arts mastery in an innovative flip-book format.

Inside, each of the 54 cards has been meticulously crafted to showcase Bruce Lee’s iconic moves in motion. Flipping through the deck brings his signature punches, kicks, and nunchaku techniques to life, making this a one-of-a-kind interactive experience.

Two versions are available during the campaign: the Gold Edition, embossed in luxurious gold hot foil, highlighting Bruce Lee’s famous punches and kicks, and the Silver Edition, with sleek silver hot foil, capturing his unparalleled nunchaku skills. 

Both editions feature tuck boxes adorned with the Chinese character 龍 (dragon), representing Bruce Lee’s namesake and the energy of the Year of the Dragon. The deck was created in collaboration with Bruce Lee’s daughter and family estate to honor his legacy.

The cards are printed on premium casino-grade black-core linen stock for smooth handling, durability, and perfect flipping. Backers will also have the opportunity to obtain a special add-on: a martial arts training manual-inspired edition. This exclusive design replicates the texture and look of ancient scrolls, adding a layer of authenticity and collectibility.

Pledge starts at $13 on Kickstarter.

Plateau Playing Cards by Dealersgrip

Plateau playing cards by Dealersgrip are a tribute to the beauty of transformation, inspired by the raw elegance of a single stone—untamed and brimming with hidden potential.

Crafted for Cardistry, the back design embodies this concept, showcasing a textured, rough-hewn stone with vivid details, symbolizing the extraordinary hidden within the ordinary. This artistic choice mirrors the idea of uncovering potential in every aspect of life.

Encased in a premium matte-finish tuck box, the design features custom typography and a unique stone-shaped viewing window, offering a glimpse of the vibrant card back within. The packaging emphasizes the deck's connection to its natural, raw inspiration.

Available for $24 from Dealersgrip.

Deck View: Ornate Emerald (White Edition) Playing Cards

Rich. Green. Elegance.

The Ornate Emerald Playing Cards marked the final masterpiece in Randy Butterfield’s ORNATE series, blending elegance and functionality. The deck features 100% custom artwork and showcases bold indices, ornamental back designs, and rich green and purple hues inspired by gemstones.

The Spades and Clubs pips feature a gray-black background with green details, while Hearts and Diamonds comes with deep purple details. The ornamental back design, paired with green and purple Jokers featuring a “jester’s scepter” motif, ensures these cards leave a lasting impression.

The embossed tuck box includes matching colored foil inside, adding a luxurious touch. Printed by the United States Playing Card Company on Aristocrat stock with Magic Finish.

James Bond Silver Edition Playing Cards

Check out Theory11's new James Bond Silver Edition playing cards crafted with the sophistication and allure befitting the legendary secret agent.

The new edition is now encased in striking gunmetal silver foil with embossed accents, the luxurious tuck box is as timeless and stylish as Bond himself.

Inside, every detail is meticulously designed... from the custom Ace of Spades and Jokers to court cards inspired by iconic Bond films, gadgets, and weapons spanning six decades.

Featuring foil accents on every card, this deck exudes opulence and refinement, making it a must-have for fans and collectors alike.

Available on Theory11 for $19.95.

Warrior Playing Cards by Ellusionist

Warrior Playing Cards bring a minimalist aesthetic combined with hidden card revelations. Designed by Romy Meermans from Elluionist, these cards are inspired by the timeless elegance of classic two-logo decks like Jerry’s, Rounders, and Kings. 

Warrior Playing Cards blend style with substance, crafted to honor those who move boldly forward, no matter the challenge. The deck are available in Black and White editions.

The White Version includes a fully customized deck with a double-backed card and a duplicate 4 of Clubs. The Black Version offers a unique Angle Z gaff card alongside the duplicate 4 of Clubs, making each colorway distinct and versatile for magic or cardistry.

Printed on Cartamundi’s luxury E7 slimline stock. Available now for $12.95 on Ellusionist, Warrior Playing Cards are more than a deck—they’re a tribute to resilience and effortless style.

Game of Thrones Playing Cards

One of 4 new releases by Theory11 on Black Friday last month, Game of Thrones Playing Cards are inspired by HBO’s legendary series. Designed by Peter Voth, this stunning deck takes you on a journey through Westeros. 

Fully custom, the courts showcase iconic characters like Jon Snow, Daenerys Targaryen, Arya Stark, and the Night King. Each card immerses you in the epic battle for the Seven Kingdoms.

The deck boasts a stunning design with bronze, gold, ice blue, and iron foil details, complemented by premium textured embossing that captures the essence of the series. 

Relive the drama, alliances, and betrayals of the Great War as you fight for the Iron Throne at your next game night. Pre-order starts at $12.95 on Theory11.

Not Just Another Custom Deck, Shipwreck Playing Cards

Ellusionist's Shipwreck Playing Cards deck isn't just another custom deck of cards- it's the ultimate utility deck for magicians, featuring 52 marked cards, and 6 exclusive gaffs all at the price of a standard deck.

With this powerhouse in your hands, you'll have the ability to perform hundreds of tricks you already know, plus many more to discover along the way.

Each card is marked for easy readability from all angles, letting you stay one step ahead with minimal effort. The six included gaffs aren't just add-ons; they're precision tools that eliminate the need for a separate gaff deck, combining both utility and creativity in one package.

A very cool and versatile deck of cards! Printed by Legends Playing Card Co. on Viper Finish. At only $12.95 on Ellusionist, Shipwreck Playing Cards offers unmatched versatility and performance.

Deck View: Mana V3 Sybil Livida Playing Cards

Classical. Elegant. Oracle.

To magicians, cardists, and collectors, "Sybil" is synonymous with the iconic card flourish that laid the foundation for many modern cardistry techniques. In 2014, this flourish inspired the Oracle Cut, a creation of Erik Mana, showcased in the Joker card of the original Oracle deck. 

The Sybil Livida edition features a gorgeous grey/blue metallic ink design. This color brings a distinct elegance, making the Livida a truly unique. The faces are classical and yet... different, especially the indexes and custom court cards. The colors are deep and rich and the courts are accented with gold metallic ink. And the jokers showcase Sybil herself.

The Sybil Livida is packed in a cigarette-style tuck box in matching grey/blue metallic ink with a semi-gloss finish, embossed with silver foil stamping for a premium look. Printed by EPCC on ‘Master Finish'. 

Theory11's Elf Playing Cards

Celebrate the timeless holiday classic Elf with theory11's festive deck of custom playing cards. Wrapped in striking green, gold, and red foil with hot stamping and delicate embossing, each card sparkles with holiday cheer.

The fully custom deck features Buddy the Elf, Jovie, Santa, Papa Elf, Mr. Narwhal, and all your favorite characters. Look closely to uncover hidden Easter eggs, from Buddy’s famous breakfast spaghetti to unforgettable moments like the iconic raccoon scene.

Perfect for spreading Christmas cheer or gifting to fans of Elf, this deck is a must-have for the holiday season. Available NOW on Theory11 for $12.95.

Overplay Deck Now Available!

The Overplay Deck is created exclusively for MegaJam 2024, Singapore's premier annual magic and cardistry event. Designed by Donald Chung, this deck combines functionality and artistry. 

The vibrant back design and "Overplay" name draw inspiration from overprinting—a technique where overlapping colors and shapes create something greater than their parts. This concept reflects MegaJam’s mission: uniting the magic and cardistry community to craft something extraordinary.

Encased in a textured, embossed tuck case with logos for MegaJam and Overplay, the deck exudes elegance and charm from the moment you unbox it.

Printed by Bacon Magic in China. Its thin, springy stock and smooth finish make it perfect for magic and cardistry enthusiasts. Available for $11.90 from Harapan Magic.

Dave Stevens' Rocketeer Playing Cards

Celebrate the legacy of Dave Stevens and his iconic indie comic creation, The Rocketeer, with a stunning deck of cards designed by Paul Roman Martinez. This project highlights Stevens’ original art from the groundbreaking first issues of his dieselpunk hero’s adventures, showcasing his impeccable linework and attention to detail.

Paul Roman Martinez, creator of The Adventures of the 19XX graphic novel series, considers this his dream project, a culmination of years of passion and dedication. Having worked on licensed creations like the Rocketeer statue for Mondo, this marks his second deck of cards following the success of his Flight Deck. Fans of Paul’s work can expect the same premium quality and design expertise in this deck.

Produced with the blessing of the Rocketeer Trust, these playing cards are crafted to the highest standards. Each tuck box features embossing and metallic foil, ensuring a luxurious finish. The cards themselves spotlight close-up views of Stevens’ artwork, with some pieces framed in their original comic book page settings to honor their roots.

Whether you discovered the Rocketeer through the beloved 1990s Disney movie, IDW’s continuation of Stevens’ work, or perhaps met the artist himself at a San Diego Comic-Con, this deck is a tribute to the magic and artistry that made The Rocketeer a timeless classic. Designed for collectors, card enthusiasts, and fans of the comic, these cards bring the spirit of Dave Stevens’ creation to life.

Pledge starts at $14 on Kickstarter.

False Casey Playing Cards

A collaboration between False Anchors and Casey’s Playing Cards, False Casey playing cards is a classic-looking deck with a modern fusion of styles. The deck combines Casey’s iconic flamingo imagery with False Anchors’ nautical aesthetics, resulting in a vibrant design perfect for collectors, magicians, and card enthusiasts. 

The deck includes custom Aces, Jokers, modified court cards, and magician-friendly extras like a double-backer and double-facer. 

The tuck box showcase dual branding that seamlessly blends Casey’s flamboyant flamingo with False Anchors’ minimalist anchor design. This unique double-sided box creates the illusion of two distinct styles, making it a true collector’s item.

Crafted with 300 GSM German Blackcore paper, casino stock, and False Anchors’ renowned coastal finish with linen embossing, the deck delivers unparalleled performance and style. Pledge starts at $10 on Kickstarter.

Chinese Legal Tender (Standard Edition) Playing Cards

Currency. Intricate. Beautiful.

Chinese Legal Tender playing cards by Kings Wild Project is inspired by the intricate beauty of Chinese currency. Each court card is meticulously designed to showcase iconic Chinese figures, with every detail—colors, backgrounds, and micro-lettering—crafted to enhance the artwork's elegance.

The deck features stunning holographic foil on both the cards and the tuck case, creating a truly unique collectible. Available now at Kings Wild Project for $14.

Table Players Vol. 37 (Gilded Edition) Playing Cards

King's Wild has released Volume 37 (gilded edition) of the Table Players series, a stunning homage to vintage packaging. This deck draws its inspiration from the iconic "Golden Pelican" Blended Virginia Junior, originally produced by S. Tetley & Sons Ltd. in Leeds, UK.

Featuring a design steeped in nostalgia, Golden Pelican embraces the bold, classic aesthetic of vintage  branding.

The deck includes the signature Kings Wild Standard court cards, striking jokers, and a timeless design that captures the essence of a bygone era. Instead of the tradiotional red and black pips, the deck comes in a dark green colorway.

Volume 37 is printed by KWPCC and are available NOW on Kings Wild Project store for $32.