FAQ

We design collector-grade custom binders, master-set checklists, binder spines and inserts for Pokémon TCG collectors. Everything is made to match a specific set, so your collection looks as good as the cards inside it — binder, checklist, spine and inserts, all from one place.

Every design is original artwork, drawn by hand by our designer Beth. We never use AI image generators, and we never trace or copy other people's work. Every binder, checklist and spine is drawn from scratch for the set it's made for — no templates, no copies. As AI-generated art floods the hobby, hand-drawn originals are exactly what we stand for.

Most makers do binders or checklists. We do the complete display system: a set-specific binder, the matching master-set checklist, a printed spine so your binders line up like books on a shelf, and inserts — everything you need to build and display a master set in one place.

A master set means collecting every card in a set — including the different variants and rarities. Our master-set checklist is a printed checklist designed specifically for that set, listing every card you need so you can track your progress at a glance. They're what we started with, and they reached page one on Etsy for a reason.

It's simple: your checklist lists every card in the set, laid out by number and including the variants and rarities that make up a true master set. As you add a card to your collection, mark it off. It works as both a tracking tool (so you always know what's left to find) and a display piece that sits alongside the matching binder. Many collectors keep it in the front of the binder or on display next to it.

Our master-set checklists are physical, printed items — designed in-house and printed in full colour here in the UK. They're made to be used and displayed, not just downloaded.

We're always adding new sets. If you can't see the one you're collecting, message us — there's a good chance it's already in the works, and your request helps us prioritise what to design next.

Our custom designs are built on premium binder bases from COVRD and Vault X — quality you can feel. You get a trusted, well-made binder (padded, water-resistant covers and secure zip closures) with our original artwork applied to it, rather than a cheap shell.

Yes. Our binders use leading premium bases with side-loading pockets designed to hold standard trading cards, including most single-sleeved cards. If you have a specific setup in mind (e.g. double-sleeved or toploaders), message us before ordering and we'll confirm the best fit.

It depends on the pocket configuration of the base (for example, a 9-pocket binder with 20 pages holds 360 cards). Each product page lists the capacity for that specific binder.

Yes. The premium bases we use are archival-safe, acid-free and PVC-free, with clear, side-loading pockets made for long-term storage and display — so your cards stay protected as well as presented.

Store it upright (like a book) in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight — sunlight can fade cards and covers over time, especially holographics. Keep the zip closed when it's not in use to keep dust out, and don't stack heavy items on top. Wipe the cover gently with a soft, dry microfiber cloth if needed — avoid soaking it or using harsh cleaners.

Yes — always sleeve a card before it goes in the binder. A sleeve is your card's first line of defence against dust and friction, and it keeps everything sitting neatly in the pockets.

One sleeved card per pocket. Over-stuffing pockets (doubling cards up) is the number-one cause of warped cards and split pages, and it puts strain on the binder — so keep it to one card per pocket for the best protection.

The premium bases we build on have padded, water-resistant covers and a zip closure to help protect against spills, dust and knocks. They're built to keep your collection safe day to day, but they're not fully waterproof, so still store them somewhere dry.

Very likely — we're always expanding the range. If you can't see your set, get in touch and tell us what you're collecting. There's a good chance it's already in the works, and your request helps us decide what to design next.

We love a bespoke project. Because each one is drawn by hand, custom commissions depend on our current workload — message us with your idea, the set or theme, and any references, and we'll let you know what's possible and the timeline.

Most of our custom pieces are made to order — designed, printed and packed by us once you order. That's how we keep everything set-specific and high quality, rather than mass-produced. Any pre-order or made-to-order item will say so on its product page.

Production time varies by item, since everything is made to order — the current handling/print window is shown on each product page and in your confirmation email. We're UK-based and work to get orders out as fast as we can: days, not the weeks you'll wait from overseas makers.

Get in touch as soon as possible at customs@portaltcg.co.uk. Because items are made to order and personalised, once we've started production we may not be able to change or cancel — but we'll always do our best if you catch us early.

Everything is designed, printed and packed by us in Plymouth, UK. Being UK-based means faster delivery and GBP pricing — no long waits or surprise import fees.

Right now we ship within the UK only. We'd love to reach collectors further afield — join our newsletter and you'll be first to know when international shipping opens up.

UK orders are sent on a tracked service so you can follow your parcel to your door. You'll get a tracking link by email as soon as it's on its way. Shipping options and costs are shown at checkout.

Because our custom and made-to-order items are personalised and printed specifically for you, they're not eligible for standard change-of-mind returns. This doesn't affect your statutory rights. If something's wrong, just contact us — we'll always put it right.

We're sorry — that's not the standard we hold ourselves to. Email customs@portaltcg.co.uk within 48 hours of delivery with your order number and a photo, and we'll sort a replacement or refund quickly.

We accept all major cards plus Shop Pay, Apple Pay, Google Pay and PayPal at checkout — whatever's easiest for you.

Yes — join our list and we'll send you 10% off your first order with code WELCOME10. Subscribers also get early access to new designs and pre-order drops.

You'll get a tracking link by email when your order ships. You can also sign in to your account on our store to see your order status at any time.

If you run a shop or event and you're interested in stocking Portal Customs, we'd love to hear from you — email customs@portaltcg.co.uk with a bit about your business.

Email customs@portaltcg.co.uk or use our contact page. You can also reach us on social — we're @portalcustoms. We're a small team and we genuinely like hearing from collectors, so don't be shy.