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How to Protect Autographs From Wearing Off

Once you own an autographed item, it needs kept safe to prevent the signature from wearing off the surface. Protective covers and proper placement can help prevent damage; sunlight and humidity can not only cause the autograph to deteriorate but also damage the signed item itself. Find a safe place to display the item and then leave it alone, as touching the autograph can cause the oils on your fingers to break down the ink.

Things You'll Need

Plastic sleeve
Card holder
Frame

Instructions

- 1
  Slip the picture, record or other thin item into a plastic sleeve. Place the item in a cool, dry area out of direct sunlight. Humidity can cause the paper to stick to the plastic, which will remove the autograph.
- 2
  Set cards inside of cardholds, being sure not to touch the ink of the autograph. Press the cover of the cardholder gently into place.
- 3
  Fold a jersey, shirt or other article of clothing to fit into a frame. Lay the item flat onto an acid-free mat board, and then lay the glass into place. Leave a gap of at least 1 inch of air between the item and the glass.
- 4
  Hang up the autographed item on the wall or in another area that does not receive direct sunlight.

Other Collecting