When print lines are tolerated vs grade-killing.
Pokémon Print Line Grading
Print lines are one of the most misunderstood defects in Pokémon card grading. Some are minor and only cap upside slightly, while others materially reduce grade outcomes. The goal is to classify severity before paying submission fees.
What print lines usually signal
A print line is a manufacturing artifact that appears as a faint horizontal or vertical line, most commonly on holo surfaces. Even when factory-made, graders still evaluate it as a visible surface flaw that can affect eye appeal.
Not all lines are equal: a subtle line visible only under angled light is less damaging than a sharp line that is immediately obvious at normal viewing distance.
A practical print-line workflow
- Use controlled lighting. Check the card under diffuse and angled light to reveal whether the line is superficial or prominent.
- Assess visibility at arm’s length. If the line is obvious without tilting, assume a tighter grade ceiling.
- Map line position. Lines crossing key artwork or holo focal areas tend to carry stronger grading penalties.
- Cross-check other defects. Combine print-line severity with corners, edges, centering, and scratches before deciding to submit.
When print lines are tolerable vs grade-killing
- Often tolerable: very faint line, low visibility, clean rest-of-card profile, and strong expected value even under conservative assumptions.
- Borderline: moderate line visibility with otherwise strong condition; may still be viable depending on service level and fees.
- Usually grade-killing: deep or obvious lines, multiple lines, or lines combined with surface scratches and edge wear.
FAQ
Are print lines treated differently because they are factory defects?
They can be contextualized, but visible factory defects still affect surface quality and can lower final grade outcomes.
Can I remove print lines before grading?
No. Print lines are part of the card stock/finish. Attempted removal can introduce worse damage and increase downside risk.
Should I still submit a card with a print line?
Only if the expected value remains positive after adjusting for reduced grade likelihood. A risk calculator helps make that call consistently.
Take action
Screen print-line cards with a repeatable process so you only submit candidates that still have favorable risk-adjusted upside.