Do you have stacks of basic lands piling up like an ancient library? If you’ve played Magic: the Gathering for a while, chances are you’ve got more forests, mountains, and islands than you know what to do with. Whether they’re leftover draft fodder or casualties of deck revisions, these endless backups don’t have to sit in a shoebox forever. If you’re wondering what you can do with your old MTG basic lands, take inspiration from these four ideas so that you can finally put those neglected cards to use.
Turn Them Into Art Projects
MTG cards aren’t just game pieces; they’re miniature works of art. Basic lands, with their bold and evocative landscapes, are perfect for crafty transformations. Create a card collage to frame and hang in your playroom, or decoupage a deck box with your favorite lands to make it stand out. The thicker cardstock also makes great bookmarks for rulebooks or fantasy novels. Personalizing your creations ensures these neglected cards stay part of your world.
Use Them As Tokens
Any self-respecting player knows token cards can run scarce during intense games. Old basic lands are a quick, DIY solution. Grab a permanent marker and jot “Treasure” or “2/2 Zombie” over some unplayable mountains. Not only does this save cash, but it also keeps your games running without awkward scrambling for a dice substitute. Just make sure your opponents are cool with the creative proxies before you tap in!
Give Them New Life Through Donation
Many playgroups, kids’ gaming clubs, or new players are just starting their MTG collections. A stack of straightforward basic lands might be exactly what someone else needs. Teaching rookies with donated cards ensures a new generation of spell-slingers, and it clears your clutter in the process. The next time your local game store hosts an MTG learn-to-play day, consider showing up with a generous bundle of lands.
Shred Them for Craft Supplies
The durable cardstock is useful for DIY projects outside the MTG realm, too. Shredded cards can transform into colorful confetti, packing material, or even textured paper pulp for handmade stationery. Before going this route, consider how much paper your shredder can handle at a time. You don’t want a binder of old lands to be the thing that trashes your home shredder. All in all, recycling Magic cards this way ensures nothing goes to waste, even if it leaves the game table.
A Fresh Battle Plan for Old Lands
Now you know what you can do with your old MTG basic lands. Whether they’re helping friends build decks, turning scrap into art, or spicing up your next Commander game, these forgotten cards have potential far beyond clutter. Don’t let those forgotten forests and unused swamps gather dust; give them a second chance to enchant.
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