Thinking about ordering custom scratch-off cards for your business, fundraiser, school, or event? The process is simpler than you might think. Here's a step-by-step walkthrough of exactly how it works at My Scratch Offs.
Step 1: Decide What You Want to Reveal
Before anything else, decide what will be hidden under the scratch-off area. This is the most important part of your card's design. Popular options include:
- A discount or coupon code (e.g., "20% Off Your Next Visit")
- A prize or giveaway winner reveal
- A personalized message (e.g., "Will You Be My Bridesmaid?")
- A classroom reward (e.g., "Homework Pass!")
- A fundraiser donation amount
- A unique redemption code or serial number
Knowing your reveal upfront helps determine which product type is right for you.
Step 2: Choose Your Product Type
My Scratch Offs offers three main options for custom scratch-off cards. Each has a different timeline, effort level, and best use case — so choose the one that fits your needs.
Option 1: Fully Custom Printed Cards
We design and print everything — your logo, brand colors, graphics, and scratch-off coating — all in one finished, professional card. This is the most polished option and requires no effort on your end once the artwork is approved.
⏱ Timeline: Allow up to 14 business days from paid order to receiving your finished cards. This option involves a design proof review process before going to print, so plan ahead for events or campaigns.
Best for: Businesses, events, and fundraisers that need a branded, turnkey product and have time to plan.
👉 Shop Custom Scratch-Off Card Packages
→ If you choose Option 1, continue to Step 3 below to select your size, quantity, and prepare your artwork.
Option 2: DIY Scratch-Off Cards (Make Your Own) — Most Popular!
This is our fastest and most flexible option. Your cards ship to you within 1 business day and arrive completely ready to use. The process is simple:
- Write your message or reward in the blank area using a marker
- Stick the included scratch-off sticker over your message
- Hand out the cards to your customers, students, or guests
- Watch them Scratch and reveal their surprise!
No design software, no printing, no waiting. Just write, stick, hand out, and scratch.
⏱ Timeline: Ships within 1 business day. Most customers receive their order in 3–7 business days.
Best for: Small businesses, teachers, families, and anyone who wants a fast, easy, professional-looking scratch-off without the wait.
👉 Shop Make Your Own Scratch-Off Cards
✅ That's it! If you choose Option 2, you're done after ordering. Steps 3–8 below do not apply — your cards arrive ready to write, stick, hand out, and scratch.
Option 3: Scratch-Off Stickers Only — Most Effort Required
Our self-adhesive scratch-off stickers ship within 1 business day — but this option requires the most work on your end. Before you can use them, you'll need to:
- Design your card from scratch (including your message, branding, and layout)
- Print your cards locally or through a print shop
- Apply the scratch-off sticker over the hidden message area on each card
This option gives you complete creative control over the base card design, but it's a multi-step DIY process. It works best if you already have a printed card or material and just need the scratch-off element added.
⏱ Timeline: Stickers ship within 1 business day, but factor in your own design and print time.
Best for: Crafters, educators with existing printed materials, or businesses with in-house design and printing capabilities.
✅ That's it! If you choose Option 2 or 3, Steps 3–8 below do not apply.
Chose Option 1? Great — keep reading! Steps 3–8 below walk you through the rest of the custom printing process.
Step 3: Choose Your Size and Quantity
Custom scratch-off cards are available in a range of sizes — from business card size to postcard size. Consider:
- Business card size — Great for promotions, loyalty rewards, and trade shows
- Postcard size — More space for branding, messaging, and multiple scratch areas
- Custom sizes — Contact us for non-standard dimensions
For quantity, we offer options ranging from small runs to large bulk orders. The more you order, the better your per-card cost.
Step 4: Prepare Your Artwork
For fully custom printed cards, you'll need to provide your artwork. Here's what to know:
- Accepted formats: PDF, AI, EPS, PNG, or JPG (high resolution, 300 DPI minimum)
- Include: Your logo, brand colors, any text, and indicate where the scratch-off area should be placed
- Mock-up vs. print-ready: A mock-up is a preview of your design concept. Print-ready artwork is the final production file. If you only have a mock-up or rough idea, our team can help guide you.
Not a designer? No problem — contact us and we'll walk you through your options.
Step 5: Place Your Order or Contact Us
For fully custom printed cards, reach out to us first so we can confirm your specs, timeline, and pricing.
We're happy to answer questions before you order — that's what we're here for.
Step 6: Review Your Proof
We'll send you a digital proof before going to print. This is your chance to:
- Confirm the design looks exactly as expected
- Check spelling, colors, and layout
- Approve the scratch-off area placement
We don't go to print until you approve the proof, so take your time reviewing it carefully.
Step 7: Production and Shipping
Once your proof is approved, your cards go into production. Allow up to 14 business days from approval to delivery. Need it faster? Contact us to discuss rush options.
Step 8: Scratch, Reveal, and Wow Your Audience
That's it! Once your cards arrive, you're ready to hand them out, mail them, or use them however you planned. Watch your customers, students, or guests light up when they scratch to reveal their surprise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a designer to order custom scratch-off cards?
No. If you have a logo and a general idea of what you want, our team can help guide you through the artwork process. Contact us before ordering and we'll point you in the right direction.
What's the minimum order quantity for custom cards?
Minimum quantities vary by product type. Contact us at info@myscratchoffs.com or call 618-416-1623 for current minimums and pricing.
Can I include unique codes on each card?
Yes — variable data printing allows each card to have a unique coupon code, serial number, or redemption code. This is great for tracking campaign performance and preventing code sharing.
How long does the custom order process take?
It depends on the option you choose. Fully Custom Printed Cards can take up to 14 business days from artwork approval. DIY Make Your Own cards and Scratch-Off Stickers both ship within 1 business day.
Can I order a sample before committing to a large run?
Contact us to discuss sample options for your specific project.
About the Author
Hi, I'm Karen — founder of My Scratch Offs. After 17+ years helping businesses and individuals create memorable scratch-off experiences, I'm excited to share practical tips, ideas, and inspiration right here.
