Grading-focused card restoration for Canadian collectors
We assess your cards from photos, recommend only conservative work worth doing, and help improve presentation before grading without risky alterations.
Low-risk by design
Everything about the process is meant to make sending photos easy and shipping cards feel safer.
- Honest recommendationsNot every card is worth restoring. If the risk, cost, or likely outcome does not make sense, we will tell you.
- Canada-only logisticsYour cards stay in Canada with tracked, insured shipping options through Canada Post and no border complications.
- Clear approval before workYou get a written plan, quote, and turnaround estimate before you ship or approve anything.
- No payment upfrontAssessment is free, approval is optional, and payment is only due after the work is completed.
- Collector-focused grading prepThe goal is to improve presentation for grading or display while protecting the card's value and stability.
- Conservative, ethical methodsWe focus on reversible-safe cleaning and repair work, not alterations that could compromise authenticity or create grading risk.
If a card would require alteration instead of ethical restoration, we will recommend against proceeding.
- Missing paper/ink filling
- Recoloring or ink restoration
- Major corner rebuilding
- Structural alterations
- Alterations that change authenticity
Proof in the cards
Real before and after examples from grading-prep work. Results vary by card, and some cards are better left alone.
How it works
Simple, documented, and easy to approve or decline.
Email front, back, and close-up photos, along with your goals. We will review the card, flag obvious risks, and tell you if it is worth discussing further.
You get an honest recommendation, a written plan, a quote, and an estimated turnaround. If the card is not a good fit, we will say so.
If you want to move forward, we send packing and shipping instructions. Tracked, insured shipping is recommended, and everything stays within Canada.
We carry out the approved work using conservative methods only. Before and after documentation is provided so you can see exactly what changed.
Once the work is done, payment is collected and your cards are returned with tracking. Typical turnaround is 1–2 weeks from intake confirmation, depending on workload.
Simple pricing
Free assessment first. Clear quote before work. No upfront payment.
Most grading-prep work falls into a clear range once photos are reviewed. If a card is not worth restoring, we will tell you before anything is shipped.
- Advanced cleaning: 60–90 minutes ($100–$150 CAD)
- Standard restoration: 90–120 minutes ($150–$200 CAD)
- Complex work: 2+ hours (from $200 CAD)
Collector feedback
The comments below are consistent for a reason: clear communication, honest quotes, and visible results.
"I stumbled upon Slabworks by accident, but I'm so glad I did. I was a bit nervous at first about sending in my cards, but Chris made me feel comfortable and at ease. He walked me through everything, and we agreed on what was to be done to my cards and the price. My expectations were exceeded; my cards look amazing! Thank you so much, and I can't wait to do business again!"
"Man you have been amazing in communication, pricing, all aspects of this transaction. I will be using you for all my card needs going forward and will pass along your name with high praise."
"As a tcg shop owner, Slabworks has been a huge boon. They've been instrumental in prepping cards for grading and restoring damage from some of our vintage singles. 10/10 will continue to send my damaged cards to Slabworks!"
Common questions
Only the questions that usually hold people back from sending photos.
Do you accept cards from outside Canada? ∨
No, we only work with Canadian clients at this time. This lets us offer fast, affordable shipping via Canada Post with no customs, duties, or currency exchange fees.
What if my card is too damaged? ∨
We'll tell you upfront. If a card has severe stock separation, mold risk, or heavy water damage, we'll recommend against restoration.
Will this improve my card's grade? ∨
Maybe, but we don't guarantee it. We focus on conservative improvement and stability, not chasing grades. Our work prepares cards for grading while preserving their value.
What if my cards get lost in shipping? ∨
We recommend tracked, insured shipping both ways. We will share the exact shipping instructions and can help you choose the right coverage for valuable cards.
How do I know you are legitimate? ∨
We are a Canadian, collector-run business with verified reviews and before/after documentation. We provide a written plan, clear pricing, and documented intake for every submission.
Will restoration damage my card? ∨
We use conservative, ethical methods and we explain any risks before you ship or approve a plan. If a card is too risky, we will recommend against restoration.
What if I don't approve the plan? ∨
Nothing at all. No hard feelings. If you don't want to move forward after seeing the plan, we'll simply shake hands and walk away.
Get your free card assessment
Send photos and secure a spot in the queue. If the card is not worth restoring, we will tell you plainly.