The Ace of Spades has an enclosed crown depicted in rich gold metallic ink, fitting in with the royal theme of the deck.

But there are also companies that organize everything else, including the selection of material, organizing artists and graphic designers, and advertising and selling to the public.

While some custom playing cards are produced by individual graphic designers and creators, there are also established publishers and brands that have been producing playing cards for an extended period of time.

One of the big brands that you really need to know about is Theory11, makers of some of the finest playing cards youll ever see.

Under the leadership of CEO Jonathan Bayme, and together with a team of experienced magicians and artists, their stated goal is to advance, inspire and create wonder.

Theyve been in operation now for more than a decade, after their launch in 2007, and have an active community of magic creators and members.

They also offer consulting services, and have created magic for stage, film, and television projects.

As part of their commitment to quality, the Theory11 website offers the following creed: Every product at theory11 is developed by our world class team.

We bring together industry-leading designers, creators, editors, and producers to develop products unlike any you have ever seen.

But our interest isnt so much with the instructional magic products and videos that Theory11 has produced, but with their playing cards.

They consider themselves to be the largest producer of luxury designer playing cards on the market.

And with around 80 unique playing card designs to their name, they have an expansive and exquisite portfolio to back that up.

As far as their playing cards are concerned, their design goal is simple: to push the envelope and create the most breathtaking, innovative, elegant designs.

Their website boasts an endorsement from famous TV magician David Blaine who says The best playing cards ever produced.

Given their close links to magic, many of their decks are geared to the needs of magicians.

But they can be appreciated by anyone who loves a quality deck of playing cards.

All this has led Theory11 to occupy a remarkable place in todays playing card industry: theyre one of the only publishers to have managed to wiggle their way into the mass market.

As a result youll find their playing cards in retailers like Barnes and Noble, and even on the shelf in big box stores like Target.

So lets take a look at a few of their decks, to give you some idea of their quality and range.

These cards are widely hailed, and regarded as one of the best decks in the business.

These beautiful cards are delivered in an absolutely amazing tuck case that is laced with royal gold foil all over a navy blue tuck case, which is finished off with a gorgeous red seal that is labelled with a gold crown.

This exquisite work of art comes complete with amazing embossing touches, and is guaranteed to catch the attention of anyone who sees it.

The use of a single colour keeps the cards from being too distracting, and makes them ideal for card games or magic, while also offering a fresh design that is visually appealing and intricate.

The faces of these cards are mostly standard, making them very practical, since they are quickly recognisable and identifiable.

Theory 11 Cards