Howdy

I'm trying to age 9 cards from an old Emerson and West effect - The Gypsy Curse. I used sepia ink with good results, but I was thinking about giving them a coat of varnish to look more authentic. I've never done this before, so any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance
Sam

Hi Sam,

You'll need to be really careful doing this, as it is likely to warp the cards, making the moves more difficult. I know these were printed on a stock a little different than say Bicycle cards, but you might experiment with other cards to see what happens.

FWIW - I have used orange shellac (brush on) on paperboard boxes to give them a vintage look. It works great for looks, but does cause the paper to warp.

I have also used spray clear coat on cards. Several light coats can be built up to avoid the warpage thing.

~michael

Thanks Michael

I was afraid of warping, thanks for the advice. Would a spray-on urethane work like clear coat?

Thanks
Sam

I've never used it myself. All I can advise is to experiment on cards that you can afford to lose if it fails.

Cotton ball and shoe polish. let it sit for a while then gently wipe it off. I have never tried it but I assume it would work. not sure how easily it will come off though on the finish

Sam... I am a little late to the post; try scuffing the card with some very fine sandpaper lightly and then try the shoe polish.

Good luck,
Bruce