What trading card materials or finishes work best for autographed items?

For cards that will be signed, the surface matters as much as the stock. A too-glossy coating can bead or smear ink, while the right finish gives a pen something to grab. A sample card lets you test how a marker behaves before committing.

• Request samples first - and mention that the cards will be autographed.
• Note your pen or ink - paint markers, gel and permanent inks each behave differently.
• Ask about signature-friendly finishes - surfaces that resist smudging and hold ink.

With your use case in hand, your printer can recommend the stock and finish that keep a signature crisp and durable.