CUT OUT METHOD FOR COMIC BOOKS
Make a Window
Collectors and graders can often spot when a comic has been carelessly steamed because of ripples or uneven gloss. Using a windowed backer board (the Cut Out Method) allows you to make the repair in a way that looks natural and preserves the overall surface quality. By cutting a small “window” in the backer board — just slightly larger than the defect — you allow steam to only affect that isolated spot. The rest of the cover remains shielded from humidity and heat.
Cut Out different window shapes
You may create circles, rectangles, squares, or even cut in half - any magazine sized backer board to isolate areas you do not wish to have direct contact with steam.
Save Templates
Save your window cut out backer boards for future use. Reduce, reuse, recycle.
Beginner's mistake
Do not make your window cut outs too large, otherwise the method is ineffective.
USING THE CUT OUT METHOD ON COMIC BOOKS
1. GATHER SUPPLIES
2. DRAW OUTLINE SHAPE
2. DRAW OUTLINE SHAPE
1. Gather your supplies: small bamboo cutting board, box cutter, and a backer board.
2. DRAW OUTLINE SHAPE
2. DRAW OUTLINE SHAPE
2. DRAW OUTLINE SHAPE
2. Draw an outline approximately the size and shape of the defect you wish to remove.
3. CUT OUT SHAPE
2. DRAW OUTLINE SHAPE
3. CUT OUT SHAPE
3. Place the backer board on the bamboo cutting board. Use the box cutter to cut out outline shape. You have now created the Cut Out window board.
4. APPLY STEAM
6. PRESS IMMEDIATELY
3. CUT OUT SHAPE
4. Insert protective stacking layers of SRP Paper and 65 lb cardstock paper underneath the cover. Place Cut Out on top of the comic book cover. Use steam gun from a distance of 12” and mist a light humidity application to the isolated area. Hold comic book and cut out board in place with offhand as you apply steam with main hand. Alternatively, you may use a Hot Shot instead of steam and the Cut Out.
5. APPLY HEAT
6. PRESS IMMEDIATELY
6. PRESS IMMEDIATELY
5. Apply heat with tack iron for a few seconds. Roll the ball bearing over defect with palm of your main hand very slowly. Do not press down too hard or you will stretch the paper.
6. PRESS IMMEDIATELY
6. PRESS IMMEDIATELY
6. PRESS IMMEDIATELY
6. Grip the ball bearing and roll the ball around in tight circles while applying light pressure. Repeat steps 5-6 a few times until you are satisfied with the results. Press book immediately in press machine while following the recommended guidelines using the matching corresponding formula in Comic Book CPR: First Edition.
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