How to get started with customs-- advice sought

[mas]

I have never made a custom card before buy would like to try.

What is the easiest software to use?

For those who make customs, what have you found as the best source for pictures?

Is there a particular paper stock that works best?

Any advice on making a card where an autograph from an index card could be inserted?

Thanks in advance.

[djauwerda]

This is a more complex question than you think. So let's look at it one question at a time.

Software: I think most custom makers on here use some version of Adobe Photoshop or GIMP. There are some that design their customs using powerpoint as well. I have used Photoshop CS5 for most of my time making customs. I'm not going to say it's necessarily easy to use, but if you can think it, photoshop can usually make it. There are lots of tutorials online as well if you dig around. Never played with GIMP.

Best source for pictures... Google Images works best for me. I also dig them off eBay, Amazon, League sites like NFL.com... anywhere I can get decent resolutions. Obviously, the bigger the image, the better.

Paper: I like HP Advanced or Premium photo paper, and I print from a HP printer. Everyone has their own preferences.

Making from an index card... there are lots of great custom creators on here that do a much better job with this than I do. I can never get it to look right.

Welcome to the addiction. Good Luck.