ATC Elk Grove

What is ATC Elk Grove?

ATC Elk Grove is focused on spreading the awareness and joy of trading art on little cards. This is done by hosting online swaps with artists of any skill level across the world and by holding in-person events at local meet-ups.  The purpose of conducting these ATC swaps is to connect artists with each other. This platform will allow them an opportunity to create individual pieces of arts that expresses their own creativity. 

What is an Artist Trading Card (ATC)?

Artist Trading Cards, or ATCs for short, are trading cards made from any medium. They are self-made works of art, signed, and dated by the artist. They are traded and collected by artists across the world. The only official rule for ATCs is the size: 2.5" x 3.5". Most ATCs are stored in plastic card sleeves; therefore, the card should be sturdy (not flimsy paper) and able to fit in the sleeve.

How did Artists Trading Cards start?

According to Wikipedia and several other online sources, the movement originated in 1997 by the Swiss artist M. Vanci Stirnemann. Stirnemann made 1,200 cards and ran an exhibition. At the end of the exhibition he held a trading session. ​

Why should I make an Artist Trading Card?

There are many reasons to make art. Making ATCs is about the social connection to other artists. It is also a way for you to explore new mediums and art techniques. They are fun to collect and reflect upon. It's a great way for an emerging artist to establish their name and build their fanbase. 

​What is an organized ATC swap?

An organized swap is a group swap organized by a swap host. Artists volunteer to participate. All participants follow the swap theme or rules and mail the cards by a deadline to the swap host. The swap organizer mixes up all the cards randomly and sends them out to each participate. 

What are the Rules for the Instagram ATC Swaps?

• Cards must be 2.5" x 3.5" and fit in a plastic card sleeve.

• Label the back of your card with your name, date, and Instagram account.

• Mail three (3) cards for that month's theme, to arrive by the 20th. Late cards will be redirected to a future swap.

• Provide a clearly legible mailing label and two (2) US Forever stamps.

• We encourage the participation of a broad range of artistic styles and skill levels; therefore, we hope the cards you receive reflect this diversity.

• ATC Elk Grove accepts participants of all ages. No offensive content please. 

2025 Instagram ATC Swap Themes:

• January: Where I'm From. Create cards that represent your hometown.

• February: Furbabies. We love our pets. Let's show them off!

• March: Potluck. No theme month. Have fun and be creative. 

• April: Lava Lamp. Psychedelic memorabilia.

• May: Black Tie. Create black and white theme cards.

• June: Potluck. No theme month. Have fun and be creative. 

• July: Backyard BBQ. Let the elements of this classic summertime activity inspire your creation.

• August: Saturday Morning. Ahh, finally it's Saturday. What's on your agenda?

• September: Potluck. No theme month. Have fun and be creative. 

• October: Things That Go Bump in the Night. It's October. Need we say more?

• November: What's My Line? Memorable lines from the movies.

• December: Potluck. No theme month. Have fun and be creative. 

Where do I mail the ATCs for the online swaps?

Please mail to: Carolyn Baptista, ATC Elk Grove, PO Box 581256, Elk Grove CA 95758. 

​What is the best way to mail the cards?

It all depends upon the quantity of cards being mailed. Some mail their cards in plastic trading card sleeves while others mail them sandwiched between cardstock. Try to avoid bulk to reduce your postage. 

Are there other ATC swaps online?

Yes! ATC's are international. You can see artwork/accounts by following tags on Instagram and viewing websites such as http://www.atcsforall.com. Common IG tags are: #atcswap, #artisttradingcards, #artisttradingcard, #atc. We encourage you to follow other swaps and accounts to participate in their trades and gain inspiration for your artwork. Feel free to message us if you want specific names of other swaps we are aware of. 

What is an in-person ATC swap event?

ATC Elk Grove will host in-person ATC swap events throughout the year at a local business or public setting. Information for each event will be posted on Instagram. 

Who manages ATC Elk Grove?

ATC Elk Grove is curated by two art enthusiasts, Carolyn and Brian, who both live in Elk Grove, CA. 

IG Accounts: @b2symmetrychaos and @freelittleartgalleryelkgrove

I have more questions; how do I contact you?

Send a DM through Instagram (@atcelkgrove) or email atcelkgrove@gmail.com