There's a reason Uusi charges what they charge for hand-gilded decks using metal foil - the process is painstakingly precise and your attention can't waver for a moment. The foil used is so light, it floats in the air while they're working on it. Lose focus and make one tiny mistake and that entire deck is ruined and you start from scratch with a new one. I don't see how it's possible that these guys can price out the project without taking all these things into account - and they can't take printing into account if they haven't got a printer already.
Don, you are 100% right there. Having gilded decks is not a joke. But we didn't start campaign without examples and tests.
The reason why it's not known company: we are not from US! Having USPCC is not an option. Import/tax costs are far to great. Importing this big number of decks pulls a question of gambling services, which asks for additional licenses etc. Bottom line? Not worth doing that.
Our deck is created for some time now, and we were exploring a LOT options before we finally started. We worked a numerous projects that included golden/silver foil and similar products (for pricy weddings, special occasions etc.). As you said, that is touchy moment, and I'm much more conformable printing somewhere where we can control. Of course we can't make 10,000 decks and that would be suicide. So that's why we are creating smaller batch that will be overlooked and handled. It's much more logical and doable. Thus a bit higher price, but not that high having in mind what this deck will have and presents.
And who we are - anyone could find out if tried to watch short trailer or read below it. We are Serbian-Australian co-production, Iluzija Animation Studio (thus Europa/Australia moment). Besides animation, we have huge design and printing department where we handle bunch of projects. As mentioned, we are working on POTO Animated feature and making this Deck looking good is a must for future needs, plans and goals.
Hope this clears questions for bit.
I'm here if you guys have more questions
Nash