How to Sleeve Your MTG Cards
Choosing the Right Sleeves There are a variety of sleeves available on the market, and picking the right one is crucial. You want a sleeve that is both protective and functional. Here are the main types of sleeves to consider:

• Standard Sleeves: These are the most common type of sleeve, made from plastic and designed to fit most MTG cards. They are affordable and come in a wide range of colors and designs.
  
• Premium Sleeves: For serious collectors or competitive players, premium sleeves offer superior durability and finish. These often have a matte or textured surface for better shuffling.
  
• Custom Sleeves: If you’re looking to make a statement, custom sleeves with unique artwork or designs can add a personal touch to your deck.

Proper Sleeving Technique When you sleeve your cards, you want to avoid bending or damaging them. Here’s a simple guide to doing it correctly:

• Open the Sleeve Carefully: Avoid forcing cards into a sleeve. Open the sleeve slightly and gently slide the card in, ensuring it fits comfortably without being too tight or loose.
  
• Avoid Overloading: Don't overstuff your sleeves. If you’re using a double-sleeve (for extra protection), make sure the inner sleeve fits snugly inside the outer one.
  
• Keep the Sleeve Clean: Dust and dirt can accumulate on the surface of your sleeves over time. Keep your sleeves clean by wiping them down with a microfiber cloth regularly.
  
• Storage and Maintenance Proper storage goes hand in hand with sleeving. If you’re not playing your cards, store them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight to avoid fading and warping. Use card boxes or deck boxes that are large enough to fit sleeved cards without putting them under pressure.

Sleeving Myths and Misconceptions
While most players swear by sleeving, some people are still on the fence about it. One common misconception is that sleeves are only necessary for expensive or rare cards. This isn’t true—sleeving protects all cards, even commons and uncommons. Furthermore, some players argue that sleeves can detract from the “feel” of the game or interfere with the shuffle, but most modern sleeves are designed to be as non-intrusive as possible.

The Case of Steven
Now, not everyone agrees with the importance of sleeving. Meet Steven, a player who swears that sleeves are just an unnecessary expense. “I’ve been playing Magic for years without sleeves, and my cards are just fine,” he says, confidently pulling out a weathered, dog-eared deck. “A little wear adds character.”

While Steven’s deck might have some character, it’s also a potential disaster in the making. His cards might be on the brink of irreversible damage, and even if they don’t lose their value, they’re losing their luster. The moral of the story? If you value your cards, your collection, and your gaming experience, sleeves aren’t just an option—they’re a necessity. Steven will learn the hard way, one bent card at a time.

So, while Steven stubbornly plays his unsleeved deck, remember: "In Magic, the only thing more fragile than your deck's integrity... is Steven’s confidence in not sleeving his cards."