Grading Custom Artist Cards: A Growing Collector Movement

Custom artist cards are one of the most exciting trends in the trading card community, blending creativity with collectability. Unlike mass-produced sets, these cards are designed by independent artists or small studios, often as limited runs or one-of-a-kind creations. For UK collectors, they represent not just a card, but a piece of art — and at SSINT, we’ve developed a dedicated way to honour and protect them.

Why Custom Artist Cards Are Becoming Popular

The last few years have seen a surge of independent artists producing their own Pokémon-inspired designs, pop culture crossovers, and original concepts. Collectors are drawn to them for their creativity, rarity, and personal connection to the artist.

Many of these cards are traded and sold in the same way as mainstream brands, but until now, they haven’t had a professional grading option that does them justice.

The Challenge With Grading Custom Cards

Most grading companies avoid custom cards entirely, or if they do accept them, they use the same label format as mass-produced cards. This leaves out the very details that make the card special — the artist, the studio, or the unique print run.

That’s where SSINT stands apart.

Introducing the SSINT Creative Legends Tier

SSINT is proud to offer the Creative Legends Tier, a grading service designed exclusively for custom artist cards.

Here’s what makes it unique:

  • Artist Recognition: Every label includes Artist: followed by the artist’s name.

  • Studio / Handle Display: Instead of listing a publisher like “Pokémon” or “Topps,” we include the artist’s company name or social media handle.

  • Aluminium Labels: Laser engraved, hand-finished, and fitted perfectly to our custom cases — adding elegance and authenticity.

  • LegendMark (SLM): For hand-signed artist cards, our labels clearly note the autograph designation.

This ensures your custom cards are preserved and presented with the same respect as any mainstream collectible.

Why Collectors Should Grade Custom Cards

  • Protection: Ultrasonically welded, UV-protected slabs safeguard your investment.

  • Verification: A professional label eliminates doubts about authenticity.

  • Resale Value: Graded custom cards are easier to trade or sell, especially when the artist’s name is front and centre.

  • Display: With a premium aluminium finish, SSINT slabs turn custom art into centrepiece collectibles.

How to Submit Your Custom Cards

Grading a custom card is just as easy as a standard submission:

  1. Place the card in a semi-rigid holder (available here on our site if you need them).

  2. Complete the submission form and select the Creative Legends Tier.

  3. Send your cards to SSINT securely packaged.

  4. Receive your graded custom card, preserved and recognised as the unique piece of art it is.

Final Thoughts

The trading card hobby is evolving, and custom artist cards are leading that evolution. At SSINT, we believe collectors deserve a grading service that celebrates creativity, not just mass production.

Whether you’re an artist looking to add value to your work, or a collector who wants to protect a rare piece of art, the Creative Legends Tier is made for you.

👉 Start your submission today and give your custom cards the recognition they deserve.

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