As an artist and collector, the new CGC Custom Sketch Label is deeply disappointing. It looks so cheap now.
Hey everyone,
I’m writing this both as a professional card creator/artist and an avid collector. I recently submitted some of my own custom sketch artwork to CGC, and I was so excited to see the final product.
But man... when I finally saw the newly redesigned Custom Sketch Label, my heart just sank.
The old label design had a great sense of prestige, border details, and a premium vibe that actually felt respectful to the hand-drawn artwork inside. This new layout? It honestly looks visibly downgraded, blank, and incredibly cheap. It looks more like a receipt than a premium label.
I completely understand and agree with CGC’s decision that sketch cards shouldn’t receive a numerical grade. I’m also 100% fine with keeping the "Art" text designation on the right side. But did they really have to strip away all the personality from the rest of the label?
When the slab and label look this cheap, it really diminishes the overall value and presentation of a piece that an artist poured hours into. Honestly, it makes me hesitate to recommend CGC to my audience or submit my high-value art pieces here in the future.
Why couldn't they just keep a hybrid design? Keep the "Art" text on the right, but preserve the original premium border and layout on the left side.
Am I the only one who feels this way, or has anyone else noticed this downgrade recently? Would love to hear from other collectors and creators here.
