An ATC is an Artist Trading Card, similar to a baseball card that kids trade. Luckily, there are very few rules for Artist Trading Cards–the main one is its size: 2 1/2 inches by 3 1/2 inches. The rest is up to the artist. The only other “rule” when it comes to ATCs is that you need to include your name and a way to contact you on the back. I usually add the date as well. Some people also put how they made the card.
The style can be whatever you like, using any materials that excite you or that you happen to have on hand. I love collages, so for me ATCs are a great way to make a quick (also, tiny) collage and use up my scraps at the same time. It’s a good idea to make lots of cards at one sitting, because that middle word “Trading” means that at some point you give one of your precious works away. The good news is that you get back one of theirs in return. Many people store their ATCs in notebooks. I use sheets of clear pockets used to store baseball cards, available at office supply stores for a reasonable price.
I am hosting ATC Night at Stampin’ From the Heart in Los Angeles (310) 391-0466 on the third Thursday of each month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Be sure to bring 12 (or more if you are on a roll) cards to trade, because you will definitely want to take some home that are made by other participants. And don’t forget one for me and one for Karen’s store. I teach a different technique each month, and you will get a chance to make two cards of my design that night. Fee $10, all materials supplied.
Stampin’ From the Heart, 11720 Washington Place, L.A., at McLaughlin Street in Los Angeles. Hope to see you there.
Jessica
When in doubt, Jess Create It.
Jess Create It 
I am interested in your class on ATC on Sunday, July 26. Can you give me some information and what it looks like? How long, how much, etc? My friend Elaine Bern sent me this site. Thanks very much.
Monin
The ATC Night is actually on Wednesday, July 15. Details are posted on this site. Cost is $10 for two ATCs after a demonstration by me. All materials provided. Photos will be posted on this site by July 1. No signup necessary. Starts at 6:30 p.m. at Stampin From the Heart, 11720 Washington Place, LA. (310) 391-0466 for directions.
The Class on July 26 is the Italy in a Paper Bag class; details and photos posted on this site. It’s a 4 1/2 hour class, from 12:30 to 5 p.m. Cost is $50. Bring your basic tool kit, including adhesives, precisions scissors and rubber gloves (highly recommended). Class packets materials provided include paint, collage items, ephemera.
Sign up at Stampin From the Heart, 310 391-0466.
Thanks for your interest, hope to see you soon.
Jessica