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If you’re interested in starting a collection of comics, you might want to know how to store comics. Of course, you could store them however you want, but if you want to make sure they will stay in good condition, then there are certain ways to do that.
When it comes to trades, the ones that look like books, you can usually just place them on a shelf like any other book. However, for single issues, which are usually called floppies and are what you’re probably visualizing when you think of comics, you’ll need to have certain items.
First, you’re going to want comic book backing boards and sleeves. These are what you put the individual comics in. A backing board is basically a piece of cardboard, at least in a very fundamental way. But that doesn’t mean you just want to buy some cardboard at a craft store and use it.
Comic book backing boards are specifically created for storing comics. They are usually acid-free, which is good for the comic, and cut specifically to fit into the correct sleeves. Depending on the ones you get, they can also be of archival quality or coated in calcium carbonate.
Then you’ll want to get the sleeves, also called bags. They are also created specifically for comics to keep them safe, and they are properly sized for the comic. Once you have those two items, you’ll put the board into the bag and then slip the comic into the bag as well. The glossy or shiny side is the front of the board; that’s the side that’s coated. Put the comic into the bag on that side of the board so that the comic is touching the coated side.
After that, you’ll want to seal the sleeve by folding over the top section of the bag that’s sticking out and then tape it closed so that the comic won’t slide out and it’ll keep it safer from any kind of dust or debris that could mess it up.
Lastly, you’ll want to get a comic book storage box. There’s a variety of different options for a storage box, all of which have different details and price ranges. There are cardboard ones, plastic ones, fabric ones, and more. Some of them have designs, like my brother’s cardboard box with a picture of venom on it. Some will protect your comic more than others.
You’ll place the comic vertically and then put the lid on top. The lid might be different depending on what type of box you get. Some might be attached to the box itself, while others might have a separate lid.
Ultimately, the type of storage box is your choice. Some are more resistant to fire and water. Others are just more durable or acid-free. Some are stackable or collapsible. I specifically use a lot of BCW products.
And now you know how to store your comics to keep them safe and in great condition.
Not sure how to start reading comics, check out my comic book 101 blog post for help.
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