50+ Custom Trading Cards for a US Candy Brand

The Challenge: One Project, Dozens of Variables

On paper, the ask sounded simple: print some cards. But the reality was far more complex:

• 50+ unique designs — each card had different artwork, colors, and layout. Not a single repeat.
• Multiple paper options — some cards needed standard playing card stock (300-350 GSM), others required premium metallic cardstock for special "rare" character cards.
• Multiple finishes — matte, gloss, and even holographic/foil finishes for the most sought-after characters.
• Private-label packaging — the cards needed to be packaged in custom-branded wrappers or boxes, not generic packaging.
• Food-safe compliance — since the cards would be inside candy bags, all materials had to meet FDA food-contact safety standards.
• Tight timeline — the campaign launch date was fixed. No delays allowed.

Our Solution: One Factory, Full Flexibility

Salon Paper took a different approach. We asked one question: "What's your ideal outcome — and how do we get you there in one shot?"

Here's what we delivered:

Requirement How We Solved It 50+ unique designs Digital printing workflow allowed efficient setup for multiple artworks. No expensive plate changes between designs. Mixed paper types Sourced both standard card stock (350 GSM) and metallic cardstock (PET-laminated gold/silver) from our in-house inventory. Multiple finishes Matte aqueous coating for base cards, gloss UV for premium cards, holographic foil stamping for rare "chase" cards — all done in-house. Custom packaging Designed and produced branded card wrappers with the client's logo and candy-themed artwork. FDA compliance All materials certified food-contact safe. Documentation provided for US FDA audit trail. Timeline Streamlined production schedule. From sample approval to full shipment in under 6 weeks.

From Samples to Full Production

The process went smoothly:

1. Material selection — we sent paper samples (standard card stock vs. metallic cardstock) so the client could feel the difference and make informed decisions
2. Proofing — digital proofs for all 50+ designs; color corrections done in 2 rounds
3. Sample run — a small batch of each card type for final approval
4. Full production — printing, coating, die-cutting, and packaging all flowed through our facility
5. Quality inspection — 100% visual check for color accuracy, cut precision, and packaging integrity
6. Shipping — palletized and container-loaded for ocean freight to the US West Coast

The Results

Most importantly, the client achieved exactly what they set out to do: create a memorable, high-quality promotional campaign that stood out in the competitive candy market. The cards became a talking point among buyers and collectors — driving repeat purchases as kids and adults tried to collect all 50+ characters.

What the Client Said

"We're a small company with big ambitions. Most factories either couldn't handle the variety we needed, or quoted timelines that would have killed our campaign. Salon Paper didn't just say yes — they showed us how to do it better, faster, and without sacrificing quality. Having one partner who understood paper, printing, and packaging made all the difference."

— Co-Founder, US Candy Company (Stanford alumni)

Completed card products organized and ready for shipment to the US customer

Key Takeaways for Brands Planning Promotional Cards

1. Variety is achievable — with the right partner. Most suppliers specialize in one thing. Find a partner who can handle paper selection, specialty finishes, and packaging under one roof.
2. Don't let complexity scare you. 50+ card designs sounds overwhelming. With digital workflows and experienced project management, it's a straightforward process.
3. Food-contact compliance matters. If your cards go inside food packaging, make sure your supplier understands FDA requirements from day one.
4. Samples save time. Letting the client touch and feel different paper types and finishes before committing to production eliminates guesswork and last-minute changes.