Card sleeves are little plastic things that protect your cards. They protect your cards from shuffling, oily fingerprints, water damage, and other stuff that can wreak havoc on them.
There are so many brands and thicknesses of sleeves that it can take time to know where to start.
Durability
Durability is one of the most important considerations when considering board game sleeves. They should be durable enough to withstand much abuse, whether you’re playing in tournaments or just casually with friends.
Card sleeves come in various materials, ranging from polypropylene to PVC. Some are more rigid, while others are softer and more flexible. Sleeves made from cheap material often lack durability and can start opening up on the edges. This can cause problems when trying to shuffle or handle the cards.
Matte and hyper-matte sleeves tend to hold up better in this regard. Glossy ones, on the other hand, get sticky much faster and may cause bending corners when you’re shuffling a lot.
Thickness
One thing to remember when considering board game sleeves is thickness—generally, the thicker the sleeve, the more protection it provides against spills and tears. However, thick sleeves are bulkier and take up more space when shuffled. This may be a deal breaker for some gamers who are unwilling to spend the extra money. Similarly, some people might prefer the feel of thinner sleeves.
In general, the thickness of a sleeve can vary from 40 microns to 90 microns. This is a personal preference, but if you need to figure out how thick you need your sleeves to be, it’s a good idea to try out a few different brands and see what feels best for you. When deciding which thickness to go for, it’s important to consider how frequently the cards will be handled. If you’re a devoted player who enjoys card drafting and heavy contact with the cards, it’s worth investing in some premium sleeves.
Colors
Colors are a great way to draw attention to a design element or evoke a specific emotion. They can also be used to convey a message or promote a brand. Warm colors, like red and orange, evoke joy and enthusiasm. On the other hand, cool colors like green and blue evoke emotions of peace and calmness. Some cultures also use color to express sadness and mourning. In addition, they can imply certain emotions, such as hope and optimism.
Choosing colors for your card sleeves is a crucial decision that affects how your cards will be perceived and viewed. You need to understand what colors evoke emotions to get the best results.
Printing
One of the essential components in any game is the cards and card stock, which you will be using a lot. Not only do you have to print your cards, but you’ll also likely use them for boards, tokens, and player mats.
When it comes to printing, you should do it right if you want your products to last. That means you should go for the thickest and most durable material that your budget allows, and you should avoid cheap plastics because they won’t do anything for you in the long run.
