Card Collecting 101

A Beginner’s Guide to Building a Valuable Collection

Getting Started: Why Collect Sports Cards?

Whether you're chasing your favorite player’s rookie card, building a future investment portfolio, or just love the thrill of the hunt—sports card collecting is back in a big way. With values skyrocketing for graded cards and sealed wax, now’s the perfect time to get into the hobby. At Cross Collections, we’re here to help you learn how to collect sports cards, find hidden gems, and protect your cards for long-term value.


Step 1: Decide What Kind of Cards You Want to Collect

Start with a focus. Ask yourself:

  • Do I want rookie cards or star players?
  • Should I collect graded cards or raw?
  • Do I prefer modern cards (e.g., Prizm, Topps Chrome) or vintage legends?
  • Should I specialize in one sport or team?


Step 2: Know What Makes a Card Valuable

If you're collecting with investment in mind, learn the factors that affect card value:

  • Player popularity (rookies, MVPs, Hall of Famers)
  • Card condition (mint cards fetch premium prices)
  • Print rarity (look for serial-numbered, short prints, and parallels)
  • Grading (a PSA 10 can be 10x more valuable than ungraded)


Want to protect your pulls? Cross Collections offers sleeves, top loaders, and card cases designed to keep your collection mint.

Step 3: Get the Right Card Supplies

Trading card supplies are essential to protecting your investment. Here's what every new collector needs:

  • Penny Sleeves: Prevents scratches and dust
  • Top Loaders: Rigid protection for valuable cards
  • Card Binders: Easy access and organization
  • Grading Submission Kits: If you're ready to get cards graded


Step 4: Consider Grading Your Cards

Grading turns your raw card into a certified collectible. Popular grading companies include:

  • PSA (most trusted, best resale value)
  • BGS (known for subgrades and black labels)
  • SGC (gaining popularity for vintage
  • CGC (ideal for TCG or newer collectors)

Getting a card graded can double or triple its value—if it's in great condition.

Step 5: Track, Organize, and Grow Your Collection

As your collection grows, so does the need for card organization tools. Here’s what helps:

  • Inventory apps like CollX, Card Ladder, or TCGplayer
  • Spreadsheet tracking (for serious investors)
  • Regular reviews for grading or selling opportunities

Want to start your own TCG or card brand? Cross Collections also sells supplies for custom trading card brands.