Consultation Service
Card Repair
Not every card needs to be submitted raw. Some can benefit from careful cosmetic improvement — if done correctly and within grading-legal bounds. We tell you which is which before you make an expensive mistake.
Important: We do not perform or endorse any card alterations that violate PSA, BGS, or TAG grading policies. Our repair consultation service advises on legal cosmetic improvements only. Submitting an altered card to a grading company without disclosure can result in permanent bans and legal consequences. We don't play those games, and neither should you.
The Reality Check
What Can Be Improved — And What Can't
Most damage is permanent. We'll tell you the truth about your card's situation, even if it's not what you want to hear.
May Be Improvable
These issues can sometimes be improved through legal, non-chemical methods. Results vary and are never guaranteed.
- +Light surface haze (dry cleaning methods)
- +Minor print dust and sleeve contact marks
- +Light water exposure (early treatment)
- +Slight body flex and minor warping (light compression)
- +Light handling marks on glossy surfaces
- +Edge scuffs with no material loss
- +Minor dents and dings (Full Restore service)
- +Light crease reduction (Full Restore service)
- +Warp or bend reduction (Full Restore service)
Not Repairable
Physical damage cannot be undone. No amount of cleaning, pressing, or treatment will fix structural card damage.
- ✕Corner tip wear (physical damage — permanent)
- ✕Centering issues (a printing defect — unfixable)
- ✕Deep surface scratches with material loss
- ✕Print lines or factory defects
- ✕Severe water damage or soaking
- ✕Ink issues or print quality defects
- ✕Torn or split cards
Grading-Illegal
These alterations will result in your card being marked as Altered by PSA/BGS/TAG. We will not assist with any of these.
- ⚠Chemical surface treatments (PSA detects resin, polish, etc.)
- ⚠Lamination or coating additions
- ⚠Ink touch-ups or re-coloring
- ⚠Structural re-laminating
- ⚠Any alteration that changes the original card structure
Case Studies
Before & After
Real examples from cards we've consulted on. Names and identifiable details removed at customer request.
Surface Haze Removal
Pokémon — Umbreon VMAX Alt Art
BEFORE
Heavy handling haze on front surface. Estimated PSA 8.
AFTER CONSULTATION
Light haze removed via dry cleaning method. Estimated PSA 8.5–9.
Sleeve Mark Assessment
One Piece — Shanks OP01-120
BEFORE
Light sleeve contact marks on glossy front surface.
AFTER CONSULTATION
Determined non-removable. Advised to submit as-is or sell raw.
Additional case studies added monthly. Follow @thatsnotа10 on Instagram for more.
Not Sure If Your Card Is Worth Repairing?
Submit it for a repair consultation and we'll give you a straight answer. Starting at $25/card.
Get A Repair Consultation