TCG Tips
✨ Glow-Up 101
Welcome to your comprehensive guide to revitalizing your card collection! Whether you’re refreshing cherished vintage cards or enhancing fresh pulls, this guide will help you achieve that crisp, eye-catching finish that truly stands out. Consider this your roadmap from “average” to “mint” condition.
🎯 Practice Makes Perfect
Before applying any treatments to your prized Charizard or other valuable cards, we strongly recommend practicing on a common card from the same era. This low-risk approach allows you to hone your technique without risking damage to your most treasured pieces.
🔄 Fresh Tools, Better Results
Using dirty or worn applicators can undo all your hard work by spreading dirt rather than removing it. Always start with fresh, clean applicators for each session. Think of it as hitting the reset button—your cards will thank you with a refreshed glow.
💧 Prep Your Cards Properly
Before polishing, it’s essential to remove dust, oils, and fingerprints. This step is similar to prepping your skin before applying moisturizer—it ensures the polish adheres and performs optimally. Most cards, from vintage to modern, respond well to this two-step routine.
Important: Never spray cleaning solution directly onto your card—that can cause moisture damage, especially at the edges. Instead, lightly mist your microfiber cloth or applicator and gently wipe your card, using soft, careful motions. Unless following my instructions/tutorials on how to perform key hole surgery.
🖌️ Apply Polish with Care
When applying polish, use slow, smooth, and even strokes—much like gently spreading butter on toast. Avoid harsh rubbing or pressing, as aggressive action can damage delicate surfaces or embed debris in tiny crevices. A gentle, precise touch will protect your cards and deliver the best shine.
Special Note: When working on the backs of English Pokémon cards, avoid polishing near the Poké Ball emblem, as this area is particularly sensitive and may discolour or be damaged by polish.
🛑 Take It Easy on Scrubbing
If polish dries on the card surface, don’t panic or scrub aggressively. Instead, apply a small amount of polish to reactivate the dried product, then gently wipe it away. Patience and a light touch protect your card from scratches and preserve its appearance.
🪄 The Magic of Card Care
For dents and light creases, a controlled humidity treatment can be highly effective. Apply one to two light sprays of Dr Drizz to each pad, sandwich your card between the protective discs, secure it with the clamps, and let it rest for 12-24 hours. This process helps relax and flatten imperfections, much like a relaxing spa day for your cards. Repeat as needed until you achieve your desired result.
🛠️ Handling Stubborn Dents and Lifted Edges
More severe dents and lifted edges require careful attention and carry inherent risks. We advise watching our detailed tutorial videos before attempting these repairs. Your restoration kit includes a specialized tool designed for practice on common cards—start there and only proceed when confident.
Please Note: Any repair work is performed at your own risk.
🚫 Gentle Hands Only
Never force or push your card during repairs. Always insert a penny sleeve between the card and your tool to protect the surface. Excessive friction can cause ink to run or peel. Patience and care yield the best outcomes.
🌡️ Store Polish Properly
Polish is sensitive to temperature fluctuations. Keep it stored at a consistent room temperature—comfortable and cool, like your favourite hoodie weather. Extreme heat can degrade the formula, while cold can cause it to thicken. Proper storage ensures your polish remains effective.
🌑 Keep Polish Away From Light
Exposure to direct sunlight or harsh artificial light can break down polish formulas over time. Store bottles tightly sealed in a cool, dark place, preserving their potency and longevity.
📺 Elevate Your Card Care Game
Looking to master card restoration? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for step-by-step tutorials, expert tips, and impressive before-and-after transformations. Join the Dr Drizz community and bring your collection to its full glory!