{"id":97,"date":"2023-01-15T18:09:12","date_gmt":"2023-01-16T02:09:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/funindoorgames.com\/?p=97"},"modified":"2023-01-15T18:09:14","modified_gmt":"2023-01-16T02:09:14","slug":"should-you-sleeve-cards-in-a-binder","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/funindoorgames.com\/should-you-sleeve-cards-in-a-binder\/","title":{"rendered":"Should You Sleeve Cards In A Binder? (Explained for Beginners)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Player TCGs (Trading card games), such as Yu-gi-oh! and Pok\u00e9mon, can be financially and sentimentally valuable. Keeping them in good condition is essential for both protecting their value and preserving them for future enjoyment. But many players and collectors claim that sleeving cards and storing them in a binder are one way to do this. With that in mind, should you sleeve cards in a binder?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When you have multiple cards in a pocket, you can protect them from friction and scratches by sleeving them in a binder. Sleeved cards in a binder can also prevent them from sticking or deteriorating in certain weather conditions. Remember that most binders require the sleeves to be a perfect fit.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Using sleeves designed explicitly for trading cards, such as perfect-fit sleeves, will provide optimal protection and organization. Not only will this protect the cards’ value, but it also provides a professional look and easy access to the cards. Let’s take a closer look at everything you need to identify to help you make the best decision for your valuable cards.<\/p>\n\n\n

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\"Should<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Are Sleeving And Binding The Best Protection For Your Cards?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It is imperative to note that not all binders are created equal, and bad binder behavior<\/a> can damage your cards. This can include using “o-ring” binders that cause dented and creased cards and generic, low-quality binder pages that scratch and discolor your cards. You can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your cards by using high-quality D-ring binders and acid-free PVC sleeves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Additionally, it is not necessary to double-sleeve your cards before placing them in a binder, as the binder itself provides a level of protection. Double sleeving may be needed for particularly valuable cards, and many people find peace of mind putting them in sleeves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Suppose you are planning on getting your cards graded by PSA. In that case, it is also worth considering storing them elsewhere rather than in a binder, as the potential for damage may bring down the grade of the card.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Must You Sleeve Every Card?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Using sleeves to protect your trading cards is an excellent way to ensure they remain in good condition. However, not all cards need to be sleeved; only those that have significant value or are slightly damaged or marked. If you own many cards and purchase booster packs every week, note that sleeving every card can become expensive. Often, the most common practice is as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. Sleeve what you have chosen to use<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. High trades should go into binders<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Any excess cards that do not meet the above should go into storage boxes<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    Also, keep in mind the climate that you live in. For example, Texas is known for ridiculously high humidity. If you have any high-tradeable cards or use the vast majority of your cards, consider sleeving to avoid severe foils and to bow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    On a different note, rules around sleeves can be strict in tournaments and events, so you must ensure your cards are compliant before playing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    The sleeves on your deck must be the same size, color, and texture and are in good condition to prevent unfair advantages. When using sleeves, ensure they cover the entire card completely, leaving no portion sticking out. Also, ensure that they are not reflective enough to determine the faces of cards in the deck.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    It’s also important to be aware that sleeves can get damaged, and it’s best to have spare sleeves on hand. Consider whether you should sleeve your cards based on the value and condition of the cards, the potential for damage during gameplay, and any rules set by tournament organizers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    What Are The Disadvantages Of Sleeving Cards?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

    While sleeves have more pros than cons, there are a few aspects that you need to consider before deciding to go all in and sleeve up your entire collection. That said, keep the following in mind:<\/p>\n\n\n\n