Sumi Kitsune Myth Maker Playing Cards

Japanese folklore, traditional tattoo artistry and premium playing card design come together in the Sumi Kitsune Myth Maker Blue/Red Craft Edition by Card Experiment.

Following the artistic direction established by the original Sumi Playing Cards, Sumi Kitsune draws heavily from Wabori, the traditional Japanese tattooing style. This time the focus turns to the kitsune – the legendary fox spirits of Japanese folklore – with characters inspired by stories, myths and folktales surrounding these mysterious supernatural beings.

Rather than simply borrowing Japanese motifs, the deck translates the flowing composition and intricate visual language associated with traditional tattoo artwork into the structure of playing cards. The result is a richly illustrated deck where mythology and modern card design sit naturally alongside one another.

Both the court cards and pips are completely custom, while the back uses an ultra-thin border that allows the artwork to dominate without sacrificing the symmetry expected from a functional deck.

This special Blue/Red Craft Edition receives an especially impressive presentation. Its tuck is made from GMUND cotton paper from Germany and individually letterpress printed in Hong Kong, giving the illustrated kitsune artwork a tactile quality that complements the traditional inspiration behind the deck.

The cards themselves were printed by USPCC on premium stock with a traditional cut.