As a relatively new collector/spinner I like to keep my records in plastic sleeves. Now, I know this isn't the best for storage or handling while DJing as in most peoples eyes (or boxes) cardboard seems to be king. My question is thus:- Is it not too much of a pain in the arse separating the original sleeve from the record?

How on earth do you match the original sleeve with the record if you where to pass it on? For me, the sleeve is very much part of the record and I get heart palpitations at the very thought of them being separated. Perhaps you have some sort of elaborate filing system or are ultimately not really arsed, either way any thought/tips or alternative suggestions welcomed.

there are a few topics on here already about this ,but i use 'covers 33' card sleeves and can fit the record in inside the original sleeve inside them . if that makes sence ,though it can be a bit fiddley getting them in and out

atb dave t

The original sleeves are filthy. I wouldn't have my records anywhere near them. Once I get a record it is thoroughly cleaned and stored in a brand new paper sleeve and then a brand new card sleeve.

If I get an original sleeve with a record, I will usually keep it seperate in a box of original sleeves, then if I come to sell a record, I will match the record back with the sleeve.

I'm sure I won't be the only one storing them this way - 45's in a new paper sleeve, which is then slid into a card sleeve, that's then placed inside a poly/plastic sleeve. I slide any original sleeve that the record came with into the poly bag in front of the card sleeve. A touch more bulky perhaps but this way everything is protected, and your original sleeve is kept with the record and remains flat. Looks nice too.

Shimmy, as you say you're relatively new the first thing I'd say is 'hold on and enjoy the ride' !

Prepare for pleasure, pain and a budget deficit

From your question you are already suffering from VINYLITIS a common side effect of the 45 collecting bug - symptoms such as extreme compulsions for completeness (original sleeves in this case) and anxiety (the need to protect the vinyl at all costs) are common..

Good luck in managing the condition going forward and remember it's the others who are odd

I'm sure I won't be the only one storing them this way - 45's in a new paper sleeve, which is then slid into a card sleeve, that's then placed inside a poly/plastic sleeve. I slide any original sleeve that the record came with into the poly bag in front of the card sleeve. A touch more bulky perhaps but this way everything is protected, and your original sleeve is kept with the record and remains flat. Looks nice too.

I like this idea. Seems a good way of keeping everything together. Also useful as you can remove the the plastic sleeve (with original sleeve inside) when placing the cardboard sleeve inside your play box. I'm confident that everything could be re-united later on with a minimum amount of fuss!

Thanks for all the suggestions and encouragement so far.

Edited February 26, 201312 yr by Shimmy45