Just because an uncut sheet is limited does not mean the prices has to be hiked up...
@sindandman Are you a rep. from Lance Miller?
I wouldn't really think Lance needed a representative. I mean, the man is pretty much self-made. All his advertisement comes from his deck, popularity, and social media outlet. But, hey, you may never know.
Kpop, you are entirely right. Just because it's limited doesn't mean the price has to go up, but there are several extenuating factors that drive the cost of a product. Craftsmanship is a key point all to often overlooked when people are considering buying an uncut sheet. When you buy an uncut sheet from E or D&D what are you buying? A unique back design but all the same old standard faces everyone they have been selling you forever. I shouldn't need to be defending my prices, but the problem is the big companies have had you all buying uncut sheets for so long that only have a unique back and maybe an AoS or Joker customized and it has trained you to expect that lower cost. My products are pure art and highly collectible products, 350 hours of illustration is no joke; It's my very livelihood. Moreover, those same companies are raking in money from way more than just an uncut sheet so they can afford to be lower with their pricing. I have said it a few times, but it bears repeating: This deck and the uncut sheets accompanying it was one of the most expensive custom decks ever printed at the USPCC (their words not mine). As such, that means my products will cost more. At some point, I will be going to more quantity and lower prices but I need to get there, and I can't do that by giving away my art for less than it's worth. We all know what D&D Smoke and Mirrors are worth... consider what my cards might be worth 10 years from now when I get to that level.
It may seem frustrating and it may seem like I'm trying to gouge people because all you see is a big price, but the funny part is I am barely breaking even on the Actuators. There are a lot of unexpected costs that come from launching a deck, much less growing into a company. I can get to the next level by charging the prices I've set forth. I can get to a great point where prices are fair all across the board but it comes from the support of people who appreciate the product and want to get to that next stage with me. That is the legacy that I'm building: a community centered around the ability to expect quality decks, with awesome artwork, and fair pricing as well as teaching magic and cardistry to the masses so that we all grow together.
As always, buy what you prefer, no one is trying to twist your arm to buy my products. However, I am concerned about making sure that everyone is well educated about the difference between my cards and the rest of the market.
- Lance
P.S. Brandon is not a rep. (No one is yet) but he is very passionate about my products and cares deeply that they sell, because he really wants to see the new decks that I am working on. Perhaps someday I will be able to hire people like him, that care as much about my cards as I do, but until then, I am happy to have the assistance that he has offered in helping me get the word out. If any of you wish to help spread the word, I will be eternally grateful. I am only one man after all, and there is much to be done.