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"ATC" Swap
Make art. Trade art. Collect art!
The ATC swap is a creative swap centered around Artist Trading Cards—original works of art measuring just 2.5 x 3.5 inches (the size of a playing card!). It’s a low-pressure, high-joy way to stay creative, try new ideas, and connect with other artists through tiny art and mail magic.
Each swap cycle, members create a batch of ATCs. You’ll mail your cards in and receive a curated set of one-of-a-kind artworks made by fellow members in return. We are planning an open studio to work on your collection in early February so stay tuned for more info! Our goal is to have 20 artists participate! We will confirm the number of members by Jan 16th. Please drop off or mail your ATCs to Propagate Studio once you have completed one for every member by Feb 28th. We will divide up the collections and send you each a complete set of ATCs from all of the other members!
Each card is meant to be a unique piece of art but here are some helpful tips when creating your ATCs
🎴 ATC Basics
Size matters: Standard ATCs are 2.5 x 3.5 inches. Trim carefully so your cards fit sleeves and trade evenly.
Original art only: ATCs should be hand-made, block prints are welcome
🎨 Design & Planning Tips
Work in batches: Set up an assembly line—backgrounds first, then details. It saves time and keeps things cohesive.
Keep it simple: One strong idea beats cramming too much into a tiny space.
Repeat elements: Same color palette, symbol, or layout = a set that feels intentional.
✂️ Construction Tips
Use heavier cardstock or watercolor paper (140 lb is great).
Glue edges down well so nothing peels in transit.
Let paint and glue fully dry before stacking or mailing.
Optional: Round corners slightly to prevent dog-earing.
✍️ Don’t Forget the Back!
On the back of each ATC, include:
Your name or artist handle
Title of the piece (optional)
Date
Medium (optional)
Swap name or theme (helpful for collectors!)
💌 Mailing & Trading Tips
Sleeve each card if you can (baseball card sleeves work great).
Protect with cardboard when mailing.
Add a short note—it makes the swap feel extra special.
🧠 Mindset Tips (Most Important!)
ATCs are for play, not perfection.
Try something new or weird—you’re working small!
Done is better than perfect.
Every card is a gift; variety is part of the magic.
Make art. Trade art. Collect art!
The ATC swap is a creative swap centered around Artist Trading Cards—original works of art measuring just 2.5 x 3.5 inches (the size of a playing card!). It’s a low-pressure, high-joy way to stay creative, try new ideas, and connect with other artists through tiny art and mail magic.
Each swap cycle, members create a batch of ATCs. You’ll mail your cards in and receive a curated set of one-of-a-kind artworks made by fellow members in return. We are planning an open studio to work on your collection in early February so stay tuned for more info! Our goal is to have 20 artists participate! We will confirm the number of members by Jan 16th. Please drop off or mail your ATCs to Propagate Studio once you have completed one for every member by Feb 28th. We will divide up the collections and send you each a complete set of ATCs from all of the other members!
Each card is meant to be a unique piece of art but here are some helpful tips when creating your ATCs
🎴 ATC Basics
Size matters: Standard ATCs are 2.5 x 3.5 inches. Trim carefully so your cards fit sleeves and trade evenly.
Original art only: ATCs should be hand-made, block prints are welcome
🎨 Design & Planning Tips
Work in batches: Set up an assembly line—backgrounds first, then details. It saves time and keeps things cohesive.
Keep it simple: One strong idea beats cramming too much into a tiny space.
Repeat elements: Same color palette, symbol, or layout = a set that feels intentional.
✂️ Construction Tips
Use heavier cardstock or watercolor paper (140 lb is great).
Glue edges down well so nothing peels in transit.
Let paint and glue fully dry before stacking or mailing.
Optional: Round corners slightly to prevent dog-earing.
✍️ Don’t Forget the Back!
On the back of each ATC, include:
Your name or artist handle
Title of the piece (optional)
Date
Medium (optional)
Swap name or theme (helpful for collectors!)
💌 Mailing & Trading Tips
Sleeve each card if you can (baseball card sleeves work great).
Protect with cardboard when mailing.
Add a short note—it makes the swap feel extra special.
🧠 Mindset Tips (Most Important!)
ATCs are for play, not perfection.
Try something new or weird—you’re working small!
Done is better than perfect.
Every card is a gift; variety is part of the magic.