Penny Sleeves Explained: Types, Sizes, and Thickness Guide
Penny sleeves explained: sizes and thickness so you do not damage cards. See what fits standard, chrome, and thick patch cards. Read now.
Penny Sleeves Explained: Types, Sizes, and Thickness Guide
If you are new to collecting, you might think all plastic sleeves are the same. But once you pull your first thick jersey card or a valuable autograph, you realize that one size does not fit all.
Using the wrong sleeve can actually damage your cards. A sleeve that is too tight can whiten corners, while a sleeve that is too loose might let in dust.
In this guide, we will break down the different types of penny sleeves, when to use them, and how to protect everything from a base rookie card to a massive 100pt patch card.
TL;DR: Quick Sleeve Guide
- Standard Cards (Base/Chrome): Use Standard Penny Sleeves (fits up to 35pt).
- Thick Cards (Jersey/Patch): Use Thick Card Sleeves (fits 100pt–130pt).
- Grading Submissions: Use Standard Sleeves inside a Card Saver (semi-rigid holder).
- Displaying: Consider Premium/Clear Sleeves for better visibility.
- Rule of Thumb: If you have to force the card in, the sleeve is too small. Stop immediately.
What is a Penny Sleeve?
A penny sleeve (often called a "soft sleeve") is a thin, clear polypropylene pouch that protects a trading card. It is called a "penny sleeve" because they traditionally cost about one penny each when bought in bulk packs of 100.
They are the most important supply in the hobby. Before you put a card in a Toploader, binder, or magnetic holder, it must go into a penny sleeve first. The sleeve prevents surface scratches that rigid plastics can cause.
The Different Types of Penny Sleeves
Not all cards are built the same, so sleeves come in different shapes and sizes. Here are the main types you will encounter.
1. Standard Penny Sleeves
These are the industry standard. They typically measure 2-5/8" x 3-5/8" and are designed to hold standard trading cards (20pt to 35pt thickness).
If you are just starting out, buy a few packs of these. They are the workhorse of any collection.
Ultra PRO - Penny Sleeves® Clear Card Sleeves - 2.5" x 3.5"
Genuine Ultra Pro Ultra clear protective sleeves for trading cards such as Magic, Pokemon, and other sports cards.
$9.45
BCW Standard Penny Sleeves (500 Count)
Crystal clear, acid-free penny sleeves for standard trading cards. Fits inside most top loaders.
$7.30
2. Thick Card Sleeves (Relic & Patch Sleeves)
Thick sleeves are wider and deeper than standard sleeves. They are specifically designed for "thick" cards, which are measured in "points" (pt).
- 100pt Sleeves: Good for standard jersey cards.
- 130pt Sleeves: Good for thick patch cards (like National Treasures).
- Super Thick: Some brands make sleeves for 180pt+ cards, though these are rarer.
Warning: Never try to jam a thick card into a standard sleeve. You will split the sleeve or, worse, peel the corner of your card.
Ultra Pro Clear Thick Card Sleeves (up to 130pt, 100 Count)
Archival-grade, acid-free sleeves for thick cards and holders up to 130pt. 100 sleeves per pack.
$5.50
3. Premium "Clear" Sleeves
Standard sleeves can sometimes look a bit cloudy or have a slight tint. "Premium" or "Super Clear" sleeves are made from higher-quality plastic that is crystal clear. They feel slightly stiffer and look much better if you are showing off a card on Instagram or eBay.
4. Corner Cut / Easy-Grade Sleeves
These sleeves have one top corner cut off or notched. This design makes it much easier to insert the card without snagging a corner. Grading companies love them because it makes removing the card for inspection safer and faster.
Ultra Pro 2.5" x 3.5" Easy Grade Collector's Card Sleeves (100 Count)
Side angle-cut sleeves to help protect corners when inserting standard cards. Archival-grade and non-PVC.
$6.43
See our guide on how to select cards to submit for grading for more tips on preparing your submission.
5. Resealable Sleeves (Team Bags)
These aren't usually used directly on a card. Instead, a "Team Bag" is a slightly larger sleeve with an adhesive strip. You put your Toploader (which contains your sleeved card) inside a Team Bag to seal it shut. This prevents dust from entering the Toploader and keeps the card from sliding out during shipping.
Choosing the Right Sleeve Thickness
Card thickness is measured in points (pt). 1 point = 0.001 inches. Here is a quick reference table to help you match your card to the right sleeve.
If you are unsure, you can download a "Card Thickness Point Gauge" online (many supply companies offer printable ones).
Best Practices for Sleeving Cards
Even with the right sleeve, you can damage a card if you aren't careful.
- Clean the Card: Use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe fingerprints off chrome cards before sleeving.
- Cut the Corner (Optional): If you don't have "easy-grade" sleeves, some collectors use scissors to make a tiny snip in the top corner of a standard sleeve to widen the opening.
- Don't Squeeze: Hold the card by the edges. Gently separate the sleeve opening with your fingers before sliding the card in.
- Toploader Next: Once sleeved, place it in a Toploader for rigidity. Check out our article on which cards you should sleeve for more advice on what is worth protecting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Pokémon sleeves for sports cards?
Yes! Standard Pokémon and Magic: The Gathering cards are the same size (2.5" x 3.5") as standard sports cards. Sleeves marketed for TCGs will fit your sports cards perfectly.
Do I need a sleeve if I use a Magnetic Holder (One-Touch)?
Most magnetic holders are designed to be used without a penny sleeve. However, some newer "Pro-Mold" magnetic holders are sized to hold a card inside a penny sleeve. This is the safest option if you can find them.
Why do some sleeves look wavy?
If a sleeve looks wavy or rippled, it might be a lower quality batch or made of thinner plastic. While they still protect against scratches, they don't look as nice. We recommend sticking to major brands like Ultra Pro, BCW, or Cardboard Gold.
Sources
- Ultra Pro Card Thickness Guide
- BCW Supplies Sizing Chart
- Last updated: January 1, 2026
Nico Meyer
figoca Founder
Passionate about the intersection of sports cards and technology. Building figoca to make card collecting more accessible and data-driven for everyone.