Crafting is Good for the Brain: K-Pop Trading Card Sleeves How-to

My photocards are my gold, my happiness, my treasure! I rely on sleeves for keeping them safe. But there is something personal and satisfying trading your bias's photocard in a sleeve you designed yourself.

Plus, crafting, yes crafting, these sleeves is actually good for your mental health! In fact, research in the field of Neuroaesthetics (the study of how the brain processes art and beauty) has shown therapeutic benefits of crafting such as

• Crafting Reduces stress.  In the book Your Brain on Art, Ivy Ross and her co-author, Susan Magsamen, have conducted extensive research that shows that engaging in art projects for as little as 45 minutes can significantly reduce stress hormones like cortisol.  

• Crafting Promotes emotional well-being: Crafting can provide a sense of accomplishment, boosting self-esteem and satisfaction, which can reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.  (Source: Crafting for Health | What are the health benefits of crafting? - Uaex.uada.edu)

• Crafting Fosters creativity: Engaging in creative activities can help us tap into our imagination and develop new ideas and perspectives.  (Source: The Mental Health Benefits of Creativity - Diversus Health)

• Crafting Builds community: Crafting can be a social activity that brings people together and fosters a sense of belonging.  (Source: Four Reasons Craft is Good for Your Mental Health) 

So if you’re ready to boost your brain doing something you love, here’s how!

Crafting Trading Card Sleeves: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather Your Materials:

   • Cardstock: Choose a sturdy cardstock that won't tear easily.

   • Markers or pens: Select markers or pens that are suitable for writing or drawing on cardstock.

   • Scissors: A pair of sharp scissors will make cutting the cardstock easier.

   • Adhesive: Use a glue stick or tape to secure the sleeves.

   • Ruler: A ruler will help you measure and cut the cardstock accurately.

   • Inspiration: Look for inspiration in your favorite K-Pop albums, fan art, or online tutorials.

2. Measure and Cut:

   • Measure your trading cards to determine the desired size for your sleeves.

   • Cut the cardstock into rectangular pieces slightly larger than your trading cards.

3. Design and Decorate:

   • Use markers or pens to draw or write on the cardstock.

   • Experiment with different designs, such as:

     • Group colors: Use the colors associated with your favorite K-Pop group.

     • Lyrics: Incorporate meaningful lyrics from your favorite songs.

     • Fan art: Use fan-made artwork or create your own designs.

     • Inside jokes: Share a laugh with fellow fans by including inside jokes or references to your favorite K-Pop moments.

4. Assemble the Sleeves:

   • Fold the cardstock in half lengthwise.

   • Cut a small slit at the top of one of the folds.

   • Slide the trading card into the slit.

   • Fold the top of the sleeve down to secure the card.

5. Customize and Personalize:

   • Add additional details to your sleeves, such as:

     • Embellishments: Use stickers, glitter, or other embellishments to decorate your sleeves.

     • Lamination: Laminate your sleeves to protect them from wear and tear.

     • Tags: Add tags with your favorite group's name or your own personal message.

By engaging in the therapeutic activity of crafting trading card sleeves, it feels so good protecting precious memorabilia and sharing with fellow stans in a personal and rewarding way. So grab your materials, unleash your creativity, and have some fun!