A scratch card is a card with a code or prize hidden under a scratch-off panel, used for contests and promotions. The card is printed first, with each number or code on its own card, and the scratch panel is applied over the print. The decisions to make are the card size, the stock, the numbering and the panel position.
Scratch cards are also sold as scratch-and-win cards, lucky draw cards and scratch coupons. This guide sets out how EZ Print approaches them: as numbered, variable-data cards with a scratch panel applied over the print, quoted from a specification.
What goes into a scratch card order?
Three things decide the quote: the card, the numbering and the panel. The card is a size and a stock. The numbering is a start value, a prefix and a digit count. The panel is the scratch-off area that is applied over the printed code or prize.
EZ Print treats a scratch card as a numbered, variable-data card, which is the same family as tickets and vouchers. The scratch panel is then applied over the print. An opaque scratch-away panel applied over a printed code or prize is also available as a scratch-off sticker for cards and packs.
| Decision | What to specify |
|---|---|
| Card | Size and stock |
| Numbering | Start value, prefix and digit count |
| Panel | What it covers and where it sits on the card |
| Quantity | Minimum run is 50 |
How should the cards be numbered?
Sequential numbering is printed in a separate pass with a stated start value, a prefix and a digit count. Settle all three before the run, not after it. A number makes duplicates visible on reconciliation rather than at the point of redemption.
For a promotion, the numbering is also what lets you keep a record of which cards were issued. Keep that record in your own redemption log: the printed number identifies the card, and the promotion rules and redemption process stay with the organiser. Say in the quote request whether each card carries a code, a prize or both, and where the scratch panel should sit, so the layout leaves room for it.
What card stock suits a scratch card?
Numbered cards are printed on 260–350 gsm gloss or matt art card, or on 300 gsm uncoated woodfree where the card is written on. Matt stock keeps a printed number legible under a torch, and gloss suits an image-led card that looks like a product.
Gloss art card has high chroma and suits retail promotions. Matt art card gives even solids with no glare. Uncoated woodfree is matt and toothy, takes a ballpoint without smudging, and is the choice when the card is written on, such as a raffle entry. Because the scratch panel is applied over the print, mention the stock in the quote request and the finish is confirmed against the specification.
How should scratch card artwork be prepared?
Supply print-ready artwork with 3 mm bleed all round and a 5 mm safe margin, the figures used for numbered cards. Keep the area under the panel free of anything the card itself must show, and mark the panel position on a separate layer.
Mark the position of the panel and the numbering field on a separate layer, as you would mark a perforation on a ticket. Sizes for numbered cards are 210 × 74 mm, 180 × 70 mm and DL 99 × 210 mm, and custom sizes are cut to order. For a scratch card, the size and the panel are confirmed on the quotation. Keep text away from the trim by the safe margin.
How long does scratch card printing take?
Standard turnaround is 7–14 working days. The numbering is a separate pass inside that window, so it should be on the specification from the start rather than added late. Express is quoted per job, against the quantity, the size, the stock and the date you give.
Send the quantity, the size, the stock and the date together. The quote then states the specification and the production schedule is confirmed against it.
Worked example: a retail lucky draw card
A planning example shows what a quote request contains: the card size, the stock, the numbering, the panel and the quantity. This one is a lucky draw card for a retail promotion, written as the specification a marketing team could send with a quote request.
Hypothetical planning example. Actual production timing, paper availability, and logistics are confirmed individually upon artwork and specification review.
A retail group is running a promotion and wants lucky draw cards that are numbered and scratched at the counter. The marketing executive sends this specification:
- Cards: 2,000 numbered scratch cards at 210 × 74 mm.
- Stock: 350 gsm matt art card.
- Numbering: sequential from 00001, with the prefix and digit count stated in the request.
- Panel: a scratch-off panel applied over the printed code, with its position marked on a separate layer in the PDF.
- Artwork: 3 mm bleed all round and a 5 mm safe margin.
- Timing: standard 7–14 working days. The request gives the promotion date and asks for an express quotation if it is tighter.
Related printing solutions
Scratch cards sit close to other promotional print. See ticket and voucher printing, stickers and labels and corporate gift printing. When the specification is ready, request a quote.
Frequently asked questions
What is a scratch card?
A card with a code or prize hidden under a scratch-off panel, for contests and promotions. It is also sold as a scratch-and-win card, a lucky draw card or a scratch coupon.
Can each scratch card carry a different number?
Yes. Numbered, variable-data cards are printed with sequential numbering from a stated start value, prefix and digit count. The scratch panel is applied over the print.
What is the minimum order for scratch cards?
The minimum run for numbered cards is 50. Quantity, size and stock are confirmed on the quotation.
How long does scratch card printing take?
Standard turnaround is 7–14 working days, and the numbering is a separate pass inside that window. Express is quoted per job.
Same-day and urgent printing available. Subject to artwork approval, payment, print type and production availability. Timing confirmed per job.