pressing COMIC BOOK folds and flaps
Using moisture to reset folds and flaps on comic book paper
Applying moisture to comic book folds and flaps before opening them for pressing is essential because it relaxes the paper fibers and reduces internal stress. Dry paper resists movement and is more likely to crack, split, or break color when forced open, especially along aged or previously folded areas. Proper, controlled moisture allows the fold to open gradually and safely, preserving ink and fiber integrity while preventing permanent damage before pressing begins.
Comic Book Dent Removal Guides
We have several free online how-to guides for removing comic book dents and comic book defects. Check out all comic book dent removal methods.
HOW TO RESET COMIC BOOK FOLDS AND FLAPS
1. GATHER SUPPLIES
3. APPLY Q-TIP TO OUTSIDE EDGE
2. DIP Q-TIP IN WATER
1. Gather your supplies: bottled drinking water, a probe, and a clean fresh cotton Q-Tip.
2. DIP Q-TIP IN WATER
3. APPLY Q-TIP TO OUTSIDE EDGE
2. DIP Q-TIP IN WATER
2. Pour a tiny bit of water inside the cap. Dip Q-tip in water. Squeeze out the excess water from Q-tip using your fingertips. The Q-tip should now be damp and not dripping wet.
3. APPLY Q-TIP TO OUTSIDE EDGE
3. APPLY Q-TIP TO OUTSIDE EDGE
3. APPLY Q-TIP TO OUTSIDE EDGE
3. Apply the damp Q-tip to the outside edge of outermost crease first. Slowly open the first fold to see any additional folds underneath. Use either a probe or the Q-Tip to lift the fold.
4. APPLY Q-TIP TO INSIDE FOLD
4. APPLY Q-TIP TO INSIDE FOLD
3. APPLY Q-TIP TO OUTSIDE EDGE
4. If there are additional folds, apply the damp Q-tip to the outside edge of the next fold. Next, apply more moisture with the damp Q-tip on the inside of the first fold as well.
5. OPEN ALL FOLDS COMPLETELY
4. APPLY Q-TIP TO INSIDE FOLD
5. OPEN ALL FOLDS COMPLETELY
5. Once all folds have been humidified on both sides, return the paper to its original flatness. Blot dry any excess water beads or moisture using a dry cotton round or blotter paper.
6. HEAT PRESS COMIC BOOK
4. APPLY Q-TIP TO INSIDE FOLD
5. OPEN ALL FOLDS COMPLETELY
6. Complete any required dry-cleaning steps. Proceed to use the humidity tank. Perform any dent removal procedures as needed. Press the book as usual while performing the basic comic book pressing procedure. Follow the recommended guidelines to the required matching formula page based off the year of publication, found in Comic Book CPR: First Edition.
Discover the World of COMIC BOOK CPR™
Learn more comic book dent removal tips in Comic Book CPR: First Edition
Comic Book CPR: First Edition is a giant 388 page comprehensive beginner’s guide to cleaning and pressing comic books, written for collectors who want to improve grades, eye appeal, and long-term preservation without relying on third-party services. The book walks readers step by step through inspection, dry cleaning, humidity control, pressing techniques, defect identification, and risk avoidance, using clear language, full-color photos, charts, and real-world examples. Designed to help readers recognize pressable versus unpressable defects and avoid costly mistakes, it provides a practical foundation for safely improving comic books at home while protecting their collectible value.
Available now on Amazon
Love this free online guide? This is only a fraction of the content inside Comic Book CPR: First Edition! Learn advanced cleaning techniques used by leading professionals in the comic book pressing industry. Featuring over 30 exclusive comic book pressing stacking layer formulas.