Hey there, comic book pals! Let's chat about something near and dear to our hearts: keeping those beloved comics safe and snug. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just dipping your toes into the world of comic book fandom, taking care of your collection is super important. So, let's dive into some tips and tricks to keep your comics organized, protected, and pristine!
First things first, let's talk bags and boards. There are a ton of options out there, but the most commonly used are:
- Standard Poly Bags and Acid-Free Backing Boards: These are the "bread and butter" of comic book storage. Slip your comics into a standard poly bag to protect them from dust and fingerprints, and pair it with an acid-free backing board to keep them sturdy and flat. It's a classic combo that gets the job done without breaking the bank. You can get these for any era and type of book (modern, silver age, golden age, magazines, treasury, etc.)
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Mylar Bags and Thicker Acid-Free Backing Boards: Level up your comic book protection with Mylar bags. These offer superior durability and clarity, ensuring your comics stay safe and looking sharp for years to come. Paired with thicker acid-free backing boards, they provide top-notch preservation for your prized issues, making them a favorite among serious collectors. These are usually quite a bit more expensive than standard bags and boards, but well worth the investment for high end comics.
So you've got your comics bagged and boarded... now what?
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Cardboard Comic Boxes: Imagine cozy cardboard homes for your precious comics. These boxes come in different sizes, like long boxes and short boxes, and they're perfect for keeping your collection tidy and safe from dust and moisture.
Plus, there are great tools like Sidekick For Comics to keep everything in place and prevent any accidental bending. (They make them for cards, too!)
If you're looking to build a mountain-sized stack of boxes to harness your collection, check out Drawerboxes with their slide-out system that can be safely stacked pretty high. We've used these for years and they're also a great long-term storage option for tight spaces like closets.
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Other Material Storage Boxes: Consider keeping your comics in higher end corrugated plastic boxes, plastic bins or archival art boxes for some extra TLC. These options, often with more water-resistance or water-proof style protection, can provide some additional peace of mind over standard cardboard materials.
- Shelves and Bookcases: Want to show off your comics in style? Pop them onto shelves or bookcases for a neat display. Adjustable shelves are a lifesaver, especially if you've got comics of all shapes and sizes. Plus, it's a great way to keep your favorites within easy reach for a quick read.
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Travel Storage Cases: Planning a comic convention adventure? The Comic Shell Comic Travel Case has got you covered. It's perfect for carrying comics safely in a backpack, or in-hand with its carrying handle - whether they're CGC or CBCS graded or raw. You can use each of its dual elastic pockets for a different purpose - so put a slab in one side and some raws or toploaders in the other. You can even use it as a long-term storage solution for some of your most prized comics, or a small collection. Keep one in your car and always be prepared.
Now, let's talk about showing off your collection:
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Comic Wall Frames: Turn your favorite covers or key issues into wall art. Framing your comics not only protects them but also adds a touch of personality to your space. There are also specialized holders for displaying CGC graded comics that look like they’re “floating” off the wall! Just make sure they're away from direct sunlight and opt for LED bulbs or UV-filtering protection to help keep them safe.
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Comic Display Cases: Show off your collection with some snazzy display cases or shadow boxes. We’ve found some budget-friendly options at IKEA that'll make your comics shine.
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Comic Book Shelves: Keep your prized possessions out of harm's way with dedicated comic book shelves. Again, watch out for direct lighting. It can also help to rotate out your display books every so often.
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Custom Comic Book Storage: Go wild with bespoke shelving units or personalized display cases. It's not just about keeping your comics safe; it's about making them feel special. These can get pretty expensive depending on your wants and needs, but having something custom built for your taste and convenience can be priceless.
There are MANY more options when it comes to storing and collecting - these are just some of our favorites. Share your best tips in the comments!
Remember, taking care of your comic collection is like taking care of old friends – it's all about love and respect. So, whether you're prepping for a convention or sprucing up your home library, find the storage solutions that work for you and let your comic book collection shine!
Comic Shell Blog is written by Jeremy Downs - lifelong comic fan, creator of the Comic Shell Travel Case, and collector of various reminders of the past. Comic Shell Blog compiles info from various sources and provides opinions for entertainment and informational purposes only, and is not financial advice. If you attend comic conventions or visit your local comic shop regularly, check out Comic Shell at comicshell.com