How to Protect Your Cards - The Ultimate TCG Accessories Guide

Bent or tatty cards are the bane of any card player at the tabletop. It doesn't matter what your card game of choice is, TCG accessories are a must-have for any player trying to avoid mishaps, especially if the goal is to keep cards looking fresh and crisp. This ultimate guide is designed for the complete beginner embarking on their card protection journey, detailing each sleeve and box in depth and explaining why each one might be needed based on specific needs. All products mentioned can be on the TCG Accessories page.

Card Sleeves

Card sleeves are the first layer of protection to consider. If forgoing any other forms of protection, sleeves are the bare minimum to grab, especially for expensive and frequently handled cards. They come in a wide variety of designs and sizes to suit any card, any player, and any collector. Choices range from clear sleeves to those featuring favourite characters. Sleeves are categorized based on size and function, all designed to keep cards in great condition, whether in play or storage. For collectors, it's better to be safe than sorry, as the small cost of sleeves is nothing compared to the headache of bending a rare card.

Types of Sleeves

1. Standard Size: Most TCGs use a standard card size, popularized by Magic the Gathering in the '90s. Games like Pokemon, Dragon Ball Super, and Digimon also use these standard card sleeves. These sleeves offer a good balance of protection and usability, making them a staple for most players.

2. Japanese Size: If a TCG doesn't use standard size cards, it likely uses Japanese size, which is smaller and used for games like Yugioh. These sleeves are designed to fit snugly around smaller cards, ensuring they remain secure during play and storage.

Sleeve Types

1. Soft Sleeves: The most basic and affordable, made of clear, thin plastic that protects against dust and scratches. They are usually sold in large quantities for cheap protection. Soft sleeves are ideal for those who need to protect a large number of cards without breaking the bank, we sell these as standard soft sleeves or Japanese soft sleeves.

2. Coloured Sleeves: These sleeves are clear plastic in front with an opaque solid colour at the back, perfect for protecting an entire deck. Coloured sleeves allow players to differentiate between different decks easily and can add a personal touch to their card collections.

3. Art Sleeves: Similar to coloured sleeves but with illustrations or art on the back. Great for decks that are played a lot or meant to be highlighted. Art sleeves not only provide protection but also enhance the aesthetic appeal of the cards, making them a popular choice among collectors.

4. Inner Sleeves: Also known as small sleeves or exact fit sleeves, they offer a snug fit and can be used for double sleeving. Double sleeving involves placing a card in an inner sleeve and then putting that sleeved card into a larger sleeve. This provides an extra layer of protection, particularly useful for valuable or frequently handled cards.

5. Top Loaders: Made of harder plastic, designed to store particularly expensive or rare cards. Not recommended for entire decks. Top loaders are best used for individual cards that hold significant value or sentimental importance.

6. Semi-Rigids: Similar to top loaders but less durable, made of thinner plastic, mostly used for card sellers sending cards via courier or post. Semi-rigids offer a balance between protection and flexibility, making them suitable for shipping and handling.

Playmats

Most playmats have a durable rubber base and a soft cloth top to keep cards safe in play. They are easily transportable, allowing them to be taken to any event or competition. Playmats can also reflect personal interests and match decks, with designs available from brands like Ultra Pro featuring Magic the Gathering and Pokemon. They can also double as mouse pads, providing versatility and practicality for players who spend a lot of time at their desks.

Choosing a Playmat

When selecting a playmat, consider the material and design. High-quality playmats will have a non-slip rubber base to keep them in place during gameplay. The cloth surface should be smooth and gentle on cards, preventing scratches and wear. Additionally, choose a design that resonates with you, whether it's based on your favourite card game, character, or a custom artwork that showcases your personal style.

Protective Tubes and Cases

To ensure your playmat stays in good condition when not in use, consider purchasing protective tubes or cases. These accessories provide a safe and convenient way to store and transport your playmat, protecting it from dust, dirt, and physical damage.

Binders and Portfolios

Binders and portfolios feature pockets to keep cards safe while browsing through them or when on the go. They come in different styles, including binders with removable pocket pages, zip binders, and strap binders. Most have side-loading pockets to prevent cards from falling out during transit. Larger binders with 9 and 12 pockets hold more cards and are great for expensive trades, while 4-pocket binders are ideal for deck building.

Choosing the Right Binder

When choosing a binder, consider the following factors:

1. Capacity: Determine how many cards you need to store and choose a binder with enough pockets to accommodate your collection. Larger binders are ideal for extensive collections, while smaller ones are suitable for specific decks or sets.

2. Durability: Look for binders made from high-quality materials that can withstand regular use and transportation. Features like reinforced edges and sturdy zippers can enhance the longevity of your binder.

3. Accessibility: Side-loading pockets are preferable as they prevent cards from falling out, especially during transit. Additionally, binders with removable pocket pages offer flexibility, allowing you to reorganize your collection easily.

Deck Boxes

Deck boxes are essential for storing cards. They come in various sizes and can also store dice and tokens. For transporting decks to local game stores or larger tournaments, a few deck boxes are necessary. The most basic size fits 60 cards, perfect for MTG or Pokemon decks. For games like Commander, which require more cards, 100-card deck boxes are available. Card dividers can be used with deck boxes to keep cards organized.

Choosing the Right Deck Box

1. Size: Ensure the deck box can accommodate the size of your deck. Standard deck boxes fit 60 cards, but larger boxes are available for games that require more cards, like Commander.

2. Material: Deck boxes come in various materials, including plastic, metal, and leather. Choose a material that offers the right balance of durability and aesthetics for your needs.

3. Additional Storage: Some deck boxes come with compartments for dice, tokens, and other accessories. These can be useful for keeping all your gaming essentials in one place.

4. Security: Look for deck boxes with secure closures, such as magnetic flaps or snap closures, to ensure your cards stay protected during transport.

That’s everything you need to know about protecting Pokemon, MTG, or Yugioh cards. Investing in the right accessories can significantly extend the lifespan of your cards and enhance your gaming experience. Whether you are a casual player or a serious collector, taking the time to properly protect your cards is always worthwhile.