How to Make Your Own Comic Book Backing Boards

Backing boards help protect copies of comic books.

Comic backing boards are sheets of white board that are placed either behind or inside comics, to protect and preserve them for shipment or storage. Comics stored in mylar bags with backing boards are referred to as "bagged and boarded." These boards should be acid-free to absorb moisture and help preserve valuable editions of collectible comics.

Things You'll Need

• White mount board or poster board
• Craft knife
• Steel ruler
• Cutting mat
• Mount cutter (optional)

Instructions

1. Measure the size of the comic to determine the size of the backing board -- which is usually slightly larger than the comic. Comic sizes are based on the era of production and are referred to as current, regular, Silver Age and Golden Age. For example, the standard size for a backing board for a Silver Age comic is 7 by 10 1/2 inches.

2. Use a ruler and pencil to mark out the size of the backing board onto the mount board. Cut along the lines you have made with a sharp craft knife, using a steel ruler to guide the blade.

3. Place the backing board behind the comic or inside it, to help preserve the spine. Place the board and comic in a mylar sleeve.

Tips & Warnings

• Use poster board to make backing boards for comics of little or no value for short term storage or shipment. For collectible comics use museum-grade mount board which is acid-free and calcium carbonate buffered to help protect and preserve them.

• Make sure your hands are clean and dry when handling comics.

• Use a cutting mat to protect your work surface and prevent slippage when using a craft knife.

References

• Comic Preservation: Comic Preservation