Kikkerland approached us (Adam and Gabrielle Lewin) to update the design of three card-game classics: Old Maid, Go Fish, and Crazy 8’s. The request required the technology of printing on transparent plastic cards, which had proved to be successful with previous card decks produced by Kikkerland. Although many interesting designs already existed for standard playing cards, there was a lack of interesting design for “fringe” playing cards. In developing this project, Kikkerland aimed to fill this gap. 

Our intention was to develop and create designs that would be entertaining to both children and their parents. This, in a sense, was also the challenge that we set for ourselves, as we wanted to ensure that these cards would speak to the sensibilities of both generations. For example, while children may gravitate toward the whimsical cartoon illustrations on the cards, their parents might discover meaning in the layering of wit and design awareness, which is the very essence of these unique, multilayered cards.

There are, of course, some parameters that exist when printing on translucent plastic. We wanted to exploit the potential and capabilities of this medium, and did so by leaving “peepholes” within the illustrations to create depth and optical illusions on each card. We also used fine detail in the illustrations, which is something that is lacking in many of the cards on the marketplace that use the same technology.

Because these cards and packaging are so unlike what is currently on the market, the redesigned decks of Old Maid, Crazy 8’s, and Go Fish have been well received by consumers and fellow designers.