Hey all,

I am thinking of purchasing an ESB carded figure that has a bend in the corner near the bubble - does sliding it into one of the AFA acrylic cases risk opening the bubble? The MOC I've put in the cases so far have all been flat fortunately and since they're all displayed in those acrylic cases my OCD wants them to all be the same , any tips?

Thanks!

The rail should go over the bubble I think. The best thing to do is cut a small sliver of cardstock or thick paper and put it over the edge of the card just past the start of the rail. The card and bubble will then slide under this paper using it as a guide and then the paper can be pulled out or removed. I hope this makes sense. I don't have pictures but have seen this method used and explained before.

Your explanation makes sense, thanks! Will forcing the bent area under the rail possibly separate the card from the blister/cause it to open?

Honestly I don't collect carded so am not sure. Some guys in the past have used books to straighten the card out a bit first. you can place books on all 4 sides of the bubble and leave it a few days to see if it does any good. Be sure to put the book flush to the bubble itself so it is over the lip of the bubble to keep from separating. Since I don't collect carded I can not say if this method works, but have heard of it being used with success.

Perhaps consider trying to flatten the card first. ie. over time use heavy books but make sure the bubble seal has 'support' ie. the books press on the seal as well. Once the card is flatter, then put it in the acrylic case.

OOOps, Bryan beat me to it.

I've been on the wrong side of this one...

I had a nice Jawa that was bowed and tried to flatten it and put it in a case. Both attempts actually caused the bubble to lift a little bit. Luckily it was okay (and I had it AFA graded with safety rails around the blister) but it wasn't meant to be flattened.

Best advice is to examine it carefully before attempting anything. If the seal is good, and the card can bend into a straight position without the bubble flexing then lay two big books on it. One book going across the top of the bubble, then another down the side or whatever angles help flatten best.

Then FORGET ABOUT THE MOC FOR A FEW WEEKS!!!!

Don't check it every five minutes, leave it be. Eventually it'll flatten out a decent amount and slide into a case. To avoid side damage, fold a piece of paper on the ends of the card, then slide into the case, then slide out the paper. Works like a charm