Quick answer
Store Smoke & Mirrors decks in a cool, dry place away from sunlight, handle them with clean hands, and use a deck clip or tight box to prevent warping. Regular dusting and avoiding moisture will keep the finish and edges sharp for years.
Why Smoke & Mirrors Decks Need Special Care
Smoke & Mirrors playing cards, like the limited Relaunch Edition and the numbered Brutalist Editions, feature custom finishes and intricate back designs that can wear or fade faster than standard decks. The proprietary stock from the United States Playing Card Company used in editions like v9 Pink Edition is smooth but can absorb oils and moisture if not handled carefully. Because many of these decks are limited releases, preserving their condition also protects their collectible value.
Step-by-Step Care Routine
- Store in a cool, dry place: Keep your Smoke & Mirrors decks away from direct sunlight, radiators, and humid rooms. A drawer or shelf in a climate-controlled room (60-75°F / 15-24°C) works best. Avoid attics or basements where temperature swings occur. Common mistake: leaving decks on a windowsill or near a heat source can warp the box and fade the back design.
- Handle with clean, dry hands: Wash and thoroughly dry your hands before touching any deck. Oils and lotions transfer quickly to the card finish, causing it to become tacky or slippery over time. For fanning or magic routines, consider using a fanning powder designed for playing cards. Checkpoint: if cards start to feel sticky or slick, it's likely hand oil buildup—wipe them gently with a microfiber cloth.
- Use a deck clip or tight box: When not in use, keep the deck in its original tuck box. For extra protection, slide the box into a deck clip or a plastic card guard. This prevents the cards from shifting and the edges from getting dinged. Common mistake: storing decks loose in a bag or drawer allows the box to open and cards to fall out, leading to lost or damaged cards.
- Clean gently when needed: Dust the cards with a soft, lint-free cloth. For smudges or fingerprints, lightly dampen the cloth with distilled water (never soak) and wipe each card individually. Let them air dry completely before returning to the box. Checkpoint: never use alcohol, solvents, or wet wipes—they will strip the custom finish and ruin the deck.
- Rotate your collection regularly: If you own multiple Smoke & Mirrors editions, rotate which decks you use for practice or performance. This spreads wear evenly and extends the life of each deck. Reserve rare editions like the Brutalist or Relaunch for special occasions. Verdict: a rotation system helps you enjoy your collection without prematurely wearing out a single deck.
Products Mentioned
- Smoke & Mirrors, v1: Relaunch Edition: Originally released in 2007, Smoke & Mirrors playing cards have since been printed in over thirty unique editions and colorsways. The Relaunch Edition of Version 1 features minimal court cards, joker and ace of spades along with a slightly modified back design. Because this deck closely mirrors the original 2007 design, preserving its finish and box integrity is key for both performance and collectibility.
- Smoke & Mirrors, Brutalist Editions: The Brutalist Editions are a completely redesigned Smoke & Mirrors deck inspired by brutalist architecture, featuring bold geometric forms and a stark, industrial aesthetic. Each deck is individually numbered. The unique geometric back design and numbered collectible status mean that even minor edge wear or fading can reduce its visual appeal and resale value.
- Smoke & Mirrors v9, Pink Edition: Smoke & Mirrors v9 Pink Edition is back in print for the first time in nearly 10 years, with a throwback to Version 4 released in 2010, featuring a similar back design, minimal court cards, custom jokers, and an intricate ace of spades. Printed by USPCC on proprietary stock. The proprietary USPCC stock is smooth but can become sticky if exposed to humidity, so storing it in a climate-controlled environment is especially important.
