Restoration & Repair

Restoration requires a careful approach. Let us know the details of your card using the form below and we’ll provide bespoke quotation.

At Curio Card Care Services, restoring cards isn’t just about quick fixes — it’s about precision, patience, and protecting the long-term value of your collection. Every card is unique, so we treat each one with the same care we would our own.

Step 1: Submit Your Card Details

The first step is to send us your card details and images using the form below. Once received, we’ll assess the damage as best we can and let you know if the card is repairable and how much the restoration will cost.

If you decide to go ahead, we’ll send you an invoice for the works. Once payment is received, you’ll be sent instructions on how and where to send your card safely to us.

Please note the following before submitting:

• We cannot fix whitening, print lines, or manufacturing defects.

• We do not alter cards — all work is restorative, not modification-based.

  We’re not currently accepting creased cards — the repair process takes up a lot of time and space using our humidor and press, which would stop us from working on other restorations.

Step 2: Initial Assessment

Before any restoration begins, we carry out a detailed inspection using specialist lighting and magnification to highlight any areas of concern — from dents or raised corners to scratches or surface marks.

This assessment lets us set realistic expectations with you from the start, especially if your end goal is grading. We’ll explain what restoration is achievable, what may be softened or improved, and what limitations remain. If this varies significantly from the original estimate — whether requiring more or less work — we’ll adjust the estimate accordingly so everything is clear before we continue.

You’ll always stay in control of the process, with the final decision to proceed resting entirely with you.

Step 3: Gentle Preparation & Restoration

Cards are placed into a clean, controlled workspace. We only use professional-grade, TCG-safe tools and materials, such as gentle humidity — never anything that risks damaging the card’s integrity. Our aim is always to enhance, never to overwork.

Depending on your card’s needs, this may include:

• Dents – Precision techniques to reduce impressions, restoring a smoother surface where possible.

• Raised Corners/Edges – Careful adjustments to lower lifted areas while maintaining card structure.

• Surface Cleaning – Mandatory for every restoration. Each card must be clean and free from debris before any work can begin. We carefully remove dust, grime, and marks using specialist cleaning methods that protect the card’s finish.

• Polishing & Scratch Reduction – Subtle techniques to minimise light scratches and improve eye appeal without compromising texture.

Step 4: Quality Check

After restoration, every card is re-inspected under magnification. We check for structural stability, surface consistency, and overall improvement compared to its starting condition. We will take photos which will be sent to you prior to returning the card.

Step 5: Secure Return (or Grading Drop-Off)

Your card is sleeved, placed in a semi-rigid holder, wrapped in protective bubble wrap, and secured in a sturdy parcel box. If you’ve opted for our Free Grading Drop-Off Service, we’ll handle safe delivery to BPT Southampton on your behalf (grading services must be booked in advance & we will guide you through this plus provide a discount).

Our Promise

We don’t take risks with your collection. Restorations are always carried out with your card’s integrity and long-term value in mind. While some damage (like whitening, print lines, or deep creases) can’t be fully reversed, we aim to give every card its very best chance to shine.