Tips In Storing Your Custom Postcards

By Author: Brent Durell
Total Articles: 172
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When you start a collection of something, you also consider how you will store them properly in order to preserve their condition. Whereas figures, toys, key chains, music boxes, and perfumes would need a glass case where you can display them, your collection of postcards would need a different kind of storage and care.

After all, they are made of paper and with different kinds of paper and inks used for postcard printing; you should try to make sure that they keep their original colors and condition. Additionally, it would be nice to find a system of storage where you could proudly showcase your collection to fellow enthusiasts as well as pretty much everyone else who is interested to see.

Since there are already a growing number of postcard collectors around the world today, there is also a growing need for postcard care and storage systems. If you go to school supplies, art supplies, or art collection stores, you will realize that there are actually cases and albums that were specifically made for postcards.

1. ...
... Choose plastic holders for storing individual cards. These should be made of uPVC because this material prevents acidic oils from forming on the surface of the cards. Acidic oils are nasty elements that could destroy the printed side of the cards.

2. Choose the postcard holders that are a bit larger than the actual postcards so that you do not have to squeeze them in. Holders that are just the same size will just result to damaged edges for your precious cards. And please, do not ever cut the edges just to make them fit the holder! That is tampering with the integrity of your collection.

3. If you already have so many postcards, you can classify them and store them by categories like, vacation spots, family greetings, etc. Purchase separate albums or boxes and store your postcards categorically. It will help you find the postcards you need.

4. Now that you have organized your collection and placed them in boxes or albums, store these in cool and dry areas of your home. Don’t keep them on top of a counter or shelf that will be hit directly by sunlight, even you just say that it is just the morning sun. Putting your postcards in extreme conditions can discolor them or make them stick together. These will be damaged when you try to remove them. Also keep them away from areas where there is always smoke, like near the kitchen or in the smoking den as smoke can cause discoloration.

5. If you are going to use paper dividers when storing your cards, choose those non-acidic papers. Ask your supplier if they know of the papers having an acidity level of pH 7.0 or above.

6. Don’t miss the chance to witness any of those travelling postcard exhibits in your locale. You will not only learn much about the collections of other people and their value, but you will also get an idea on how the professionals store their precious collectible cards.

Postcards have not only been a fun way of connecting to people but they can also be interesting collector’s pieces. You may also venture on postcard printing some of your photos and exchanging them with other enthusiasts so that your collection will grow.