When you open a pack of cards, you usually get about 10 (depending on the TCG) new cards for your collection. Before you know it, your collection will grow from that one folder, and it will become increasingly important to properly organize and protect your cards. Whether you like Magic The Gathering, Pokemon, Yu-Gi-Oh! another TCG, a good system will help you find your cards quickly, but also keep the cards in good condition. Here are some helpful tips to protect and manage your cards effectively!
Sorting: Find the perfect system!
In terms of sorting, you have to find out for yourself what you think is the best way to sort. These are a few popular methods:
- Per set
- On rarity
- Color or type
- Deck or playability
Protection: Prevent damages
When cards are damaged, they become significantly less valuable. To prevent this, good protection is essential.
Sleeves
Well-fitting sleeves prevent scratches and dirt on your cards.
Toploaders
For the most valuable cards, hard plastic sleeves provide extra protection.
Binders and deckboxes
Keeping your cards in a sturdy binder or deck box will keep them in good condition and protect them from discoloration.
Cataloging: Keep an overview of your collection
If you want to know which cards you have and which ones you are missing, a catalog is useful. You can keep track of your collection in different ways.
Physical lists
You can keep track of your cards with a notebook or Excel file.
Apps and websites
There are platforms such as TCGplayer, Deckbox and Pokellector that allow you to keep track of your collection digitally.
Trading and selling: Get the most out of your collection!
There may come a time when you don’t need cards for your collection. Then you can choose to exchange or sell them. Did you know that GameForce also purchases cards? If you want to get rid of your tickets, you can always inquire at the counter! At events or evenings where your preferred TCG is played, you can always trade with fellow players!
Enjoy!
At the end of the day you collect (and play) TCGs for your own pleasure! Whether you’re saving for a complete collection or multiple competitive decks, a well-organized collection will make your life a lot easier!
See you soon!
Anna