ATCs—what is this acronym about? And what does it have to do with papercrafting? ATCs are Artist Trading Cards. Similar to the trading cards or sports cards that kids swap, artists make up these cards for a variety of reasons. This art form has in its roots, ties to the portrait miniatures of the 14th century and also to mail art, which is based on the mail graphics. But the modern form of ATCs originated in Switzerland in the early 1990’s and were traded and swapped in Zurich and then many other European cities. There are two main rules to ATCs: the cards can only be exchanged or swapped (not sold), and the size of the card must be 2.5 x 3.5 inches (6x9 cm).

These miniature pieces of art are the perfect size for trying out a new technique or style without committing to a larger piece of work. An artist could make up a batch of cards and do various different methods in his/her search for his/her particular style. Techniques can include multi-media, pencil, watercolor, oil, ink, collage, altered or anything to trip your fancy.

Artists also create multiples of ATCs to swap with their colleagues in order to show off their creations or to explore new ideas! Collecting these tiny treasures can be addicting. To store them, purchase the poly card protectors and insert into binders. With the help of the internet art swaps are arranged frequently with many artists from around the world participating. This website about ATCs (atcsforall.com) has a forum with many swaps and trading sessions listed.

One could also use an ATC like a business card or calling card. Create one with your particular style and art and have it printed with your name or logo for a unique piece of stationary!

Another way to utilize ATCs would be to include them into art journals or other altered artworks. Use them to decorate books or cards or even scrapbooking pages.

ATCs are a fun and unique collectible, easy to create, to store, to exchange but with a two extra aspects to the collecting. The creative process is interesting and the friendships made over an exchange is invaluable.