I need to make some very realistic playing cards with pattern on the back to cascade down a wedding cake. I'm toying with patchwork cutters, embossed then painted for the face and maybe stencilling or a rolled fondant effect on the back. I know there are also rice paper transfers. Has anyone got a good idea how to get the most realistic result particularly for the intricate patterns on the backs?

These Patchwork Cutters would work great.

www.google.ca/search?hl=en&authuser=0&site=imghp&tbm=isch&source=hp&biw=1440&bih=775&q=patchwork+cutters+playing+cards&oq=patchwork+cutters+playing+cards&gs_l=img.12..0i24.3210.13214.0.15255.31.15.0.16.16.0.90.1124.15.15.0....0.0..1ac.1.20.img.qYuzSkYp1rU

HTH

I think she still needs a pattern for the back. You could have one made not sure how long you have but you can contact http://www.sweetstampen.com/ send them a graphic of what you want and they will copy it for you then you could just stamp the back. The set MsGF suggested would work great for the front.

MsGf I want to steal your avatar. I miss my doxie.
 

Google "Playing Cards Clipart" there you will get the fronts.   Then google "Back of Playing Cards" and you will get the backs.    Print them on edible images..put them on a piece of fondant to dry.