Things You'll Need
Instructions
Handle with care. Before you get the baseball autographed, try to keep your hands clean. If you must clean the baseball, use a cleaner that's non-abrasive. Do not use shellacking to coat the baseball before getting the autograph. Shellacking can cause a ball to crack over time, destroying the value of the baseball and signature.
Use a high-quality pen for the autograph. A Sharpie or similar style marker is more prone to smudging and fading.
Put the baseball in a display case. You want to make sure that the room that you store your baseball case in is not in direct sunlight. Exposure to sunlight will fade the baseball and signature over time. Sporting goods stores sell UV-protected baseball display cases that will shield and protect the baseball from sunlight. Also, be sure the room is neither too hot nor too cold. Extreme temperatures can affect the baseball.
Wear gloves when handling the ball. The oil on your hands can break down the ink of the signature. To preserve the signature as long as possible, always use gloves when handling the baseball.