Alexei Volkov
Playing cards are made from a variety of materials, including plastic-coated paper, cotton-paper blends, thin cardboard, and thin plastic. In the second half of the 20th century, plastic coatings were commonly added to playing cards to increase their durability and make them easier to handle. KEM cards, first manufactured in 1935, are made entirely from cellulose acetate and are waterproof. The Arrow Playing Card Company, later renamed Arrco, popularized plastic-coated decks in the mid-20th century. Plastic playing cards are more durable, harder to cheat with, easier to shuffle, and more expensive than paper cards.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| First plastic-coated playing cards | Introduced in the second half of the 20th century |
| Plastic-coated playing cards manufacturers | KEM, Copag USA, United States Playing Card Company (USPCC) |
| Benefits of plastic-coated playing cards | More durable, harder to cheat with, can be cleaned, don't bend as easily, unique "feel", easier to shuffle |
| Downsides of plastic-coated playing cards | More expensive than paper cards |
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What You'll Learn
- Plastic-coated cards were invented in the 20th century
- Plastic-coated cards are harder to shuffle than 100% plastic cards
- % plastic cards are more durable and harder to cheat with
- KEM cards are made from cellulose acetate and are waterproof
- Plastic-coated cards are usually cheaper than 100% plastic cards
Plastic-coated cards were invented in the 20th century
Playing cards have come a long way since their invention in the 9th century. They were first made from materials like woodblock-printed paper, hand-painted paper, and hand-painted thin pieces of cardboard. In the 20th century, playing cards evolved further with the invention of plastic-coated cards.
Plastic-coated playing cards were invented in the 20th century, with the Arrco Playing Card Company of Chicago, founded in 1927, being a notable pioneer in this innovation. The company's founder, Theodore Regensteiner, played a significant role in popularizing plastic-coated decks by implementing an easy-to-handle plastic coating on his cards. This coating not only improved durability but also enhanced handling, making the cards more popular among players.
The second half of the 20th century saw the widespread adoption of plastic coatings for playing cards, with companies like the United States Playing Card Company (USPCC) embracing this innovation. The benefits of plastic-coated cards were significant, including increased durability and resistance to wear and tear. This made them highly desirable for card games, especially in casinos where longevity and security against cheating were crucial.
The technology eventually advanced to the point where completely plastic cards could be produced. KEM cards, first manufactured in 1935, are a notable example of this innovation. Made entirely from cellulose acetate, KEM cards are waterproof and highly durable. The introduction of all-plastic cards marked a significant milestone in the evolution of playing cards, offering even greater resistance to damage and tampering.
Today, plastic-coated and all-plastic cards are widely used, with companies like Copag USA offering both options to consumers. While paper cards remain popular for certain applications, such as magic tricks and unique deck collections, plastic-coated and all-plastic cards have become the go-to choice for card games due to their durability, ease of shuffling, and resistance to cheating. The invention of plastic-coated playing cards in the 20th century revolutionized the industry, leading to the widespread adoption of more durable and secure playing cards that continue to dominate the market today.
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Plastic-coated cards are harder to shuffle than 100% plastic cards
Playing cards are made from a variety of materials, including paper, plastic-coated paper, cotton-paper blends, and thin plastic. In the second half of the 20th century, it became common to add a plastic coating to paper cards to increase their durability. However, plastic-coated cards have some drawbacks when it comes to shuffling compared to 100% plastic cards.
Plastic-coated cards tend to become more difficult to shuffle over time as the coating wears off. The exposed paper underneath creates more friction, making the cards harder to slide into place. In contrast, 100% plastic cards retain their smoothness and are easier to shuffle even after extended use. This is because plastic cards are made from materials like acetate or PVC, which are designed to be spill-resistant and resilient to bending.
While new plastic decks may feel slippery to those accustomed to paper cards, plastic cards become easier to control with use as they become pliable due to heat and movement. On the other hand, paper cards can be more challenging to shuffle as they are more susceptible to bending and wear, especially when shuffled quickly or by the edge. Paper cards may also be affected by humidity, making them less consistent for shuffling compared to plastic cards.
The choice between plastic-coated and 100% plastic cards ultimately depends on the user's preferences and intended use. Paper cards are often preferred for card tricks and magic performances, while plastic cards are commonly used in casinos for games like poker, where frequent shuffling is required. Cost is another consideration, as plastic cards tend to be more expensive than paper cards.
It is worth noting that different brands of plastic cards have unique characteristics, with some being stiffer or smoother than others. Therefore, it is advisable to research and try out different options before purchasing a large quantity of any particular brand.
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100% plastic cards are more durable and harder to cheat with
Playing cards have come a long way since their invention, which likely occurred during the Tang dynasty around the 9th century. Over time, the materials used to make playing cards have evolved from woodblock printing to large sheets of paper glued together to create a pasteboard, which is then coated with a finish to make handling easier.
Today, 100% plastic cards offer several advantages over traditional paper or cardboard playing cards in terms of durability and resistance to cheating. Firstly, plastic cards are more durable than their paper counterparts. They are made of thicker PVC stock, making them more flexible and water-resistant. This increased durability is especially beneficial for games that involve heavy usage, as plastic cards can withstand more wear and tear than paper cards, saving money in the long run.
Secondly, plastic cards are harder to cheat with. Traditional paper cards are susceptible to bending, marking, or other physical alterations that can indicate a card's value to a cheater. Cheaters may also use invisible ink or lemon juice to mark cards, which can be difficult to detect. However, plastic cards are more challenging to mark or alter physically, and even with the use of invisible ink or printers, it is harder to create markings that will stay on the smooth plastic surface without dulling its finish.
Additionally, plastic cards can enhance gameplay by providing better handling and flexibility, resulting in more hands per hour during a poker game, for example. The smooth finish of plastic cards also makes shuffling and dealing easier, reducing the likelihood of sharp corners wearing out and potentially revealing a card's value.
While cheating can occur in any card game, regardless of the material used, plastic cards present a more challenging surface for cheaters to manipulate. The durability and resilience of plastic cards make them a popular choice for casinos, card rooms, and serious players looking to minimize the potential for cheating and maximize the longevity of their cards.
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KEM cards are made from cellulose acetate and are waterproof
Playing cards were likely invented during the Tang dynasty around the 9th century. In the second half of the 20th century, it became common to add a plastic coating to resist wear and even to produce all-plastic cards.
KEM cards are crafted from 100% cellulose acetate, a material that is durable and flexible. This ensures the cards retain their shape and quality, even with extensive use. The cards are waterproof and washable, setting them apart from traditional paper-based cards. KEM cards can withstand accidental spills or rain and can be wiped clean, continuing to look and feel as good as new. This makes them the perfect choice for outdoor card players or those who play games near a pool.
Cellulose acetate is made from wood or cotton fibres that are treated with acetic acid and acetic anhydride and then turned into a powder. It is then mixed with other chemicals to produce a plastic dough, which can be made into sheets or rods. The first application of cellulose acetate was as a safety film used to coat the fabric wings of aeroplanes during World War I.
KEM cards are manufactured by the United States Playing Card Company and are known for their sharp, vibrant, and long-lasting graphics. The precision printing process used ensures that the card faces and backs maintain their integrity and clarity over time. KEM cards have earned a reputation for being the preferred choice of professional card players and enthusiasts worldwide, with their unparalleled quality and reliability.
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Plastic-coated cards are usually cheaper than 100% plastic cards
Playing cards have been around for centuries, with the game most likely originating in China during the Tang dynasty in the 9th century. Over time, the materials used to make playing cards have evolved, with the German invention of woodblock printing in the 15th century reducing production costs and making the game more accessible. Today, playing cards are typically made from paper or plastic, with plastic-coated cards being a popular option.
Plastic-coated cards are a type of playing card that has a thin layer of plastic applied to the surface of the card stock, which is typically made from heavy paper or thin cardboard. This plastic coating provides added durability and helps to protect the cards from wear and tear. While plastic-coated cards offer some benefits over traditional paper cards, they are usually more affordable than 100% plastic cards.
The main reason for the price difference between plastic-coated cards and 100% plastic cards is the cost of materials and production. Producing 100% plastic cards requires more specialised equipment and materials, which increases the overall cost. In contrast, plastic-coated cards can be manufactured using more traditional methods, with the plastic coating applied during the finishing process. This makes the production of plastic-coated cards more cost-effective, resulting in a lower price point for consumers.
Additionally, 100% plastic cards offer superior durability compared to plastic-coated cards. They are designed to last much longer, resist warping, and can be easily cleaned if they become dirty. This increased durability is a significant advantage for casinos and frequent players, justifying the higher price point. Plastic-coated cards, while more durable than traditional paper cards, may still show signs of wear and tear over time, especially with heavy use.
Another factor that contributes to the lower cost of plastic-coated cards is their intended use. Plastic-coated cards are often marketed as a more affordable alternative for casual players or those who are new to card games. On the other hand, 100% plastic cards are typically chosen by casinos, serious players, or those looking for a more premium option. As such, the pricing of plastic-coated cards reflects their position as a budget-friendly option in the market.
While plastic-coated cards are usually cheaper than 100% plastic cards, it's important to consider the trade-off between cost and durability. Plastic-coated cards may wear out faster and require more frequent replacement, especially when compared to the long-lasting nature of 100% plastic cards. Ultimately, the decision between plastic-coated cards and 100% plastic cards depends on the intended use, frequency of play, and individual preferences.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic-coated playing cards were invented in the second half of the 20th century.
Playing cards are typically made from card stock, heavy paper, thin cardboard, plastic-coated paper, cotton-paper blend, or thin plastic.
Plastic-coated playing cards are more durable, harder to cheat with, easier to shuffle, and can be cleaned. They are also more expensive than paper cards.
KEM cards, Copag cards, and Bicycle cards are some examples of plastic-coated playing cards.
Plastic-coated playing cards are commonly used in casinos due to their durability and resistance to cheating. They are also popular for game nights as they are easier to shuffle and have a longer lifetime compared to paper cards.
