Vinyl Storage Solutions Outer Sleeves - Dual Pocket Demonstration

[@arzabael]

Those spines. A sheer dream thank you I never saw that aspect advertised about these

[@ThePressingMatters]

I know! The friend who showed me this was very clear that having the spine wrapped by the flap boosted the visual appeal. No seam to obscure the view! I'm baffled that some put the flap at the top or bottom rather than the spine!

[@wcarlosw]

Thank you so much for this demo. As soon as the video was over I ran to Vinyl Storage Solutions channel. I love the dual pocket sleeves. Can't wait to get my order

[@ThePressingMatters]

You're welcome Carlos! It does help to see it demonstrated. I remember having it explained to me verbally and I couldn't wrap my head around it! Wait till you start seeing them together on a shelf. Clear view of the spine type is a big benefit as well. Looks awesome!

[@cameronevanstheanalogueall7729]

Mike is a great guy, and I'm happy to support a local business. I've been buying VSS for the past few years, and it's great to see how far the product has come.

[@ThePressingMatters]

So true, Cameron. I love it when a product exceeds your expectations. These sleeves definitely did!

[@fasolplanetarium]

You sold me on dual-pocket in this video. Just got mine today and I couldn't be happier.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Oh that's great! They really are a great choice. Glad you found the video useful in making your decision!

[@chrismckee4154]

I absolutely love the dual pockets from vinyl storage solutions. Such a great idea and a wonderful way to protect and display your vinyl. A great company. I understand Mike has retired and sold the company. I hope they keep up the quality of the product.

[@jasonsmith2032]

Man we are getting deep into the minutia of record collecting now and I love it. You have one of my favorite channels. I just love your passion for music and wish I was hanging out at your house listening to records with you.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Well Jason, You are right, this is the deep end of the pool, lol. Sleeving is absolutely recommended at any level. This kind of sleeving is for the truly obsessive. I guess that's me! I love the music of course, but i also just love the object. the record, the labels, the beautiful jackets. It's one of the reasons we enjoy vinyl over digital formats or streaming. We have the physical prize in our hands to look at and admire while we listen. Enjoying it with another enthusiast is a joy a lot of us don't get to experience. Where are you located?

[@m.w.7882]

Great job showcasing these great sleeves. Liked the setup too, great lighting, glass blocks- very cool. Ironically I just sent this video to a buddy(audiophile), while im just getting into vinyl. He has agreed to go in on an order with VSS. I love the Dual pocket/inner sleeves. While my collection is currently under 100 Im so happy I found this company early. My buddy laughed at first, same thoughts you had-“overkill”, but just like a good wine- one sip is all it will take!! Thanks again for posting- saw your link to another post to a follow on video- headed there now. 🤘🏽🔥🌀

[@ThePressingMatters]

Thank you for your comment. This is a wonderful product. You were very smart to start early. Imagine resleeving thousands! I do a hundred when I can afford to and keep moving on. If it's not a near perfect record, it doesn't make the cut. My goal is to have my perfect collection cleaned and sleeved in VSS completely!

[@kristofferstack]

I've been watching your more recent videos, and came across this as I started viewing your "back catalog". Nice description of what you do and why. I've been using these dual pocket outer sleeves since late 2022. I love them.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Hi, Thanks so much for checking out all the content on the channel. This video in particular is one of the most watched. I know I never saw a demonstration like this and u thought it would really help people decide if they want to go this route. I love it!

[@thomashertl3037]

Right on time! Just ordered a couple of sets to experiment without knowing exactly how to apply them. You have saved me a lot of trial and error time and confirmed that my decision for VSS is surely a good one. Many thanks and best greetings!

[@ThePressingMatters]

Hi Thomas! That's great! I was in the same boat when I first tried these and felt a clear explanation and demo would have helped me, so I made one for others to follow. Glad you found it helpful. See the demo at the end of tbis video for more info on cutting. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHi3goGYfZ6Zebcsi=O5ONTSL2-n2BfHbp

[@michaellord9745]

Scott, I use several different styles of the Vinyl Storage Solution 4 mil. outer sleeves, and the 3 mil. inner sleeves as well. The jackets (singles and gatefolds) used by Acoustic Sounds and Mobile Fidelity are too large to fit in the standard 12" dual-pocket outer sleeve but Mike at VSS has a larger 12.75" outer sleeve to solve that problem. Now, with a single jacket I used to wrap and seal the flap around the spine like you showed in this video. After some time I found that wrapping and sealing the flap around the bottom of the jacket (leaving the second pocket open at the top) actually works better. Doing it this way prohibits the possibility of any excess part of the flap that runs past the seal on the back of the (now enclosed) jacket from catching against the front of the album (to which it is being filed away against) from bending backwards thus folding as creasing. Folding and sealing at the bottom, and just a little care when filing away, prevents this accidental folding and creasing of the excess flap material from happening. I also discovered that you can still read the spine just fine when filed away when folding and sealing at the bottom. Just something to consider. Fantastic products sold by Mike at VSS!

[@ThePressingMatters]

Hi Micheal, thank you for your comment. I do have the other size variations on hand in case something is too large. I never did try sealing at the bottom, though I had heard of others doing it. I understand the reasons that you mention as I had the same concern about the flap catching as it's slid in. I guess with care and practice I avoid it, and I don't keep things too tight - upright yet with breathing room. I will give it a try and let you know what I think. I do love the seamless look across the spines though, a point my friend felt was extremely important. Bottom line is that these are great products no matter which you choose and what way you orient them. Also Mike has created an innovative company that is worth supporting.

[@vollsticks]

Yeah, I'm a 'bottom flapper' myself 😂 But mostly I use the dual flap tuckable double pocket sleeves. I like the VSS gatefold sleeves for treble discs but for single/double LP without a gatefold cover I'm a double-tucker 😁

[@ThePressingMatters]

@vollsticks Damn I'm trying to think what that makes me 🤣

[@vollsticks]

@@ThePressingMatters I think it could be, let's say, 'misconstrued'?😂

[@ThePressingMatters]

🤣

[@RobPhil34]

Been using the dual pockets since 2021, using lockdown as an opportunity to re-sleeve everything, all while supporting a fellow Canadian entrepeneur! Your demonstration has changed my method for single sleeved albums going forward though: I was sealing at the bottom and sliding the record up top, but my delicate office drone hands were chafing on the spines. Now that I'm adopting your method, I'm not only seeing improved shelf display but feeling the difference too! Thanks for sharing!

[@ThePressingMatters]

That's great! I'm glad you gave the "flap around the spine" method a try. Looks cool, right. Very streamlined! Great company! Thanks for watching and for your comment. Much appreciated!

[@jonathanpena9163]

Just ordered some dual pockets! This totally helps for gatefold/double LPs. Thank you!

[@ThePressingMatters]

You're welcome! If you have any further questions or issues, please contact me, I'd be happy to help.

[@vollsticks]

Never cut off one flap when 'making' a g/f sleeve! Good way! I always just sort of 'lock' them together, with one adhesive flap at the back, the other adhered to the middle with its flap. Just hafta make sure the g/f is laying flat. Tbh I think any way you use VSS sleeves is foolproof! Great vid, subbed!

[@ThePressingMatters]

Thank you, and welcome to the channel! It can work either way, and be just as satisfying, I just learned to do it this way and stuck with it. You might try it one time! Tends to lay flatter.

[@vollsticks]

@@ThePressingMatters For sure, I'll give it a go next time I order (praise the supreme deity that VSS now have reliable UK/US distro! That postage cost from Canada was bloody *murderous* !

[@donh2596]

I'm sad that I can only give one thumb up for this. Great video! I'll be taking this course of action as well.

[@ThePressingMatters]

That's very kind of you to say! I'm glad you found value in it. Please see the follow up that has a more detailed demo at the end. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHi3goGYfZ6Zebcsi=SU15FZBPAIB-a-cC

[@blandondwyer4360]

Thanks!

[@ThePressingMatters]

Thank you so much! I'm glad you found value in this presentation.

[@primeanalogrecords]

Someone told me Mike sold the company as I have been using VSS sleeves for years! I do my dual pocket sleeves closing on the bottom and having the record pocket on top! Great video and hopefully more people are informed about this system!

[@ThePressingMatters]

Hi Matt! I had not heard that the company was sold, unless it was very recent. I spoke to Mike about 6 months ago around the time I decided to do a big overview of the products with my friend John. I think he spoke to him as well. Maybe someone from the company will chime in. Tell me, did you try the sleeve both ways, and if so, why did you go with the pocket on top? One other commenter had said he found the flap catches more easily when done on the side. Was that a factor for you?

[@primeanalogrecords]

@@ThePressingMatters I seal mine on the bottom on the back! That puts the record pocket on top! I put the record in a 3 mil inner sleeve and turn the record/sleeve clockwise 1/4 so record cannot slide out! For gatefolds I have a flap inside and outside! I open gatefold and affix the flap then close it and affix the outer! To each his own is what I say! It works for me and all of my collection has the dual pocket sleeves on them! Now if only they would make 3 and 4 record sleeves like for the new RSD Bill Evans set and the RSD Van Halen! Crazy packaging! Frank at 33rpm had made mention that Mike had recently sold the company! As long as they keep up the quality I am happy!

[@connorhewson5650]

Thanks for the review. Do you use the 12" for 2LP albums?

[@ThePressingMatters]

You're welcome! I try and have both on hand, 12 and 12.75. I much prefer 12, tape on body. The reason being the smaller size leaves a little less excess on the right of the closed gatefold. Larger garefolds sometimes won't fit in a 12 so I use 12.75 in that case. I'm trying to figure out how to eliminate the excess on the right side, but it looks like it would involve some intricate cuts to do. So if I figure that out I'll do an update!

[@connorhewson5650]

Thanks so much. That is helpful. I am subscribed for future updates. Cheers @@ThePressingMatters

[@ginovairo6487]

Hi Scott, nice overview of these great products. I’ve been using them a while and I think they are an excellent way to protect our beloved (and expensive) vinyl. There are a couple of differences in the way I use them to you though (there are many ways to skin a cat though😂). I agree with Michael’s earlier comment about sealing along the bottom of the sleeve for the same reason he outlined. For single LP gatefolds I use the VSS multifunction sleeve instead of a second dual pocket, I prefer this to having an unused second pocket. These multifunction sleeves are also very useful for the occasional trifold albums where it can be used for the middle part with a dual pocket at each of the other ends. Also, for two LP gatefolds I don’t cut the flap as you do. I prefer to seal both the second inner flap (that you cut off) along the adhesive strip that you left unused. I find in this way the record is completely sealed from the elements whereas your method leaves that inner side unsealed. I don’t have any problems doing it this way. I have experienced a couple of problems during my life as a record collector with water damage and even a crazy cat that decided to “spray” my collection which made me sensitive to preferring to “completely” seal my vinyl. I also recently learned of the problem of the vintage PVC outer sleeves depositing a film over vinyl with long term storage that can ruin your records. I am still discovering records from my early days (from the 80’s) with these old wrinkled PVC sleeves and replacing them with the VSS Polypropylene sleeves (for a lot of those early records in my collection I swap out with the VSS single pocket sleeves which are a much safer alternative). Michael has some great KZbin instructional videos on how to use his products which are worth checking out if you are new to VSS. Keep up the good work on your channel.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Thank you for your informative comment Gino. I knew that other users had found their preferred way to use these and the sleeves are versatile enough to accommodate different orientations for different reasons. I'm going to try one with a bottom seal, but to me it seems it might negate one nice feature which is the tight clear spine. I'm trying it right now... I'll get back in a second.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Ok, I tried it and I can see why some will prefer it. It looks a bit more even in terms of the material around the border, and the top is easy to access. I guess it's easier to place on the shelf without snagging. But the pocket is open on top so dust has an easier way in, even though the inner sleeve will be turned. It's a more natural action for me to pull the record from the rear opening, just like we all did before this madness!! Lol. And you do not get the picture window spine which with a Tope Poet or similar looks amazing. One thing we can all agree on it these products rock! Thank you for your tips, I know others will have some alternatives to our preferred ways of using these.

[@therealdonelaitis]

@@ThePressingMatters I agree with your method, Scott. I had initially sealed my entire collection of single LPs with the flap on the bottom, but then at some point realized the flap along spine is SO much better such that I’m now going through and slowly changing the sleeving on my entire collection. A clear spine looks so much better on the shelf, and the outer sleeve material is so malleable that after sitting on the shelf for a day or so, the flap gets pressed down so well that it never snags when I move a record on and off the shelf.

[@ThePressingMatters]

@therealdonelaitis Awesome! I'm going to show a finished shelf vs a shelf with older seams on the spine. The difference is striking!

[@johndeuble64]

This John friend guy sounds like a super smart dude !! Did he mention the clear/no hard seams on the spines dealio is the ticket!

[@ThePressingMatters]

The guy is a freakin' genius! I gotta give credit where credit is due - John taught me everything I know about the VSS dual pocket system. Some other posters have said they are doing the flap at the bottom. I guess the seam doesn't bother them and they find it easier to file them that way. Personally I can't imagine not doing it the way you taught me. Those crystal clear spines are a great extra benefit to the system. You just don't realize it til you see them all lined up on a shelf.

[@sidesup8286]

Very good video Scott, and this video might end up being the most important video you ever did, to someone out there. There was a collector who told me a story of something that ruined 1/4 to 1/3 of his entire record collection. .Most people have their hot water tanks in the basement. Did you know that some hot water tanks when they get old or malfunction go Supernova ! Just like a star in the sky whose long life has ended, they can literally and abruptly start spewing out their contents; hot water. Not just dripping, but hot water forcefully squirting all over the cellar. He hadn't been in his cellar for many days and when he walked down the cellar steps one summer evening, he noticed something strange. When going down the steps, he could always feel the temperature getting cooler going further and further down the steps. Not this time. As he walked further down the steps he felt the temperature getting hotter not colder. To his astonishment his hot water tank was spewing hot water all over the place; probably for days. The drain near his washer was partially covered with something and it wouldn't let the water drain as fast as it was spewing out. He had an inch or more of hot water covering his enormous basement floor. If a record albums cardboard is sitting in water, the water will leach up to the top of the cover ruining it from top to bottom. Unless the lp inside it was in plastic, filthy water from the floor will be all over the lp. His London records and his audiophile records with plastic or rice paper inner sleeves were ok, but not collectible anymore because of the covers being ruined. Fortunately he had many albums in wood or plastic crates, and some albums were elevated off the floor. But the ones directly on the floor were ruined. Insurance companies are often not good at all, and not good on something like collectible records. The one with the Emu, according to a consumer site, has almost 3 times more complaints on not coming through on claims than the average insurance company. People who have trouble with wet basements and occasional flooding should either elevate their records off the floor or go to the expense of buying what looks like a great product from your friend John. They might end up saving most of their record collection. Looks like a really great product.

[@ThePressingMatters]

That sounds like a nightmare, and good record sleeves have saved me in a couple of instances. One time I had my records in a storage facility for a year. There was some dripping from an ac unit, and being in Florida, condensation was an issue, and the floor was sometimes damp. I had some stuff on the ground but between the special corrugated plastic Ultraboxx from Bags Unlimited and sleeves on everything, there was no damage at all, just as pristine as when I put them in. I was grateful I had the good sense to take as much care as possible in that situation.

[@sidesup8286]

@@ThePressingMatters Not that long ago I had a round stack of cds laying on the table in front of where I was sitting. The cds got knocked over and landed inside something. They'll probably be a few with scratches on them, but knowing cds, they'll all probably play fine. Stuff like that has happened before. It shows how much you value your records to go out of your way to protect them. I value my cds, but with many of the ones I play most often, I put the cases away somewhere to make it easier. People have put audible scratches on their cds trying to fit the hole in the middle onto that elevated round area inside the case. That middle of the cd plays first and the last tracks are toward the outer edge of the cd. Just the opposite of an lp. Thrift shop lp finders have lots of bought records whose covers did not come in plaatic. Of course they would generally be the least likely ones to go to any extra expense. Maybe their most cherished lps at least; I'd say. If you mentioned what those cost, I might have missed it

[@ThePressingMatters]

Yes I should have mentioned it. They are a bit more than a regular poly sleeve. I always get them during a sale (they have one right now) and they are around 60 cents each. 500 count gets you a large discount.

[@sidesup8286]

@@ThePressingMatters Should be well worth it. Lps are getting harder to find at reasonable prices, and lp collectors/buyers are sticklers about condition. I once had many more lps than cds. I think its the other way around now, but digital had a hard time equaling the kind of sound analog routinely achieves. The better digital playback equip. you have, the more frequently it achieves a result that is really really close. It used to be rare for me, with what I used to use.

[@groovingyourway]

I'll now reference this demo video! Thanks for the great attention to detail, too.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Thank you so much for watching and commenting. I really enjoyed sharing what I learned about this great product. Let me know if you decide to try it. I'd love your feedback!

[@groovingyourway]

@@ThePressingMatters of course! I reference these or get asked which sleeves I use almost every video. Truly my favorites

[@ThePressingMatters]

@@groovingyourway I will check out your videos!

[@garrapaterorulez5017]

Kool demo vid Scott! I’ve been using VSS since Mike started this thing…. going close to 4 years now and about a year ago I finally completed my project “resleeving my entire collection (5k plus) and I’m glad I bit the bullet and decided to do it. It was tough, pricey and time consuming, but extremely worth it. I’m not sure if you are aware but about 7 months ago, they launched a “special” sleeve for gatefolds (you no longer need to use two single dual pocket sleeves). Also, last week, they finally launched the crystal clear inner sleeve for picture and color records. They were out of production since late 2021. Cheers JC/Miami

[@ThePressingMatters]

Thank you for watching. I tried the one piece gatefolds but I ended up preferring the customized approach. Neither is perfect but hopefully we see some adjustments and new solutions for gatefolds. I love the material. I have a long way to go. I did one video where I show what's been resleeved about 6 boxes. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mYnMfmyjpteBbc0 I have another four boxes coming up soon. I haven't tried the clear inners but I really love the frosty 3ml. I don't have much color vinyl so I am ok with the limited visibility of the standard inner. Reminds me I gotta reorder!

[@ThePressingMatters]

JC, I'm in Miami too!

[@brianbillings6815]

Thank you for helping me realize I'm not very fussy about my storage! 😁 I simply leave any record with a plastic sleeve inside the original and use inner and outer sleeves on my collection. I've been using the "Invest in Vinyl" brand. Haven't found a satisfactory outer sleeve for double albums, however. I don't concern myself with resale though.

[@LetThereBeSound1]

Very cool sleeving system Scott!

[@ThePressingMatters]

Thanks for watching Oz!

[@Tojazzer]

Thank you for the great videos. You are always informative. I've been buying these VSS sleeves for about a year now and I think that they are great. I was first sold on them when I read that the founder has a background in chemical engineering. For many years, we've been putting our records in PVC covers only to find out about gassing and the irreparable harm it causes. Regarding ring wear, I usually keep the original paper sleeves and place them between the record and the cover. I do have two concerns. I don't like the flap. It's too easy to have it stick to the cover when sliding it into the new sleeve. Also, I think that the VSS sleeves are a little too tight for the album covers. I'm afraid that this might cause warping.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Hi, Thank you for watching and commenting! I find its good to have both of the main sizes 12 and 12.75. I have a few 13” too. As far as the flaps, are you using dual pocket tape on body? Because it sounds like you are using tape on flap version. I tried those and did not like them for the very reason you state. My only issue with is doing garefilds with two pieces. I like the look on the right size jackets. But many are smaller and there's too much material ending up in the right side. I am thinking of asking them to develop one that is shorter in depth, to give us a better option for this circumstance.

[@stevehink7889]

Great video! I’ve been using VSS sleeves exclusively for some time and wouldn’t use any others! I started using the dedicated gatefold sleeves, but like the dual pocket resealable much more! I don’t cut the flap off and works great. I’m not a fan of the white strip being left on. I also seal non gatefold records at the bottom, my personal preference so I can remove the record from the top.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Hi Steve! That's the great thing about these - they are so versatile. I've been playing with some variations and will do an update on some things I've discovered. Thanks so much for your comment!

[@stevehink7889]

Also, those 3 mil inner sleeves are the best! Makes it much easier to insert into the jacket without bunching up.

[@ThePressingMatters]

@@stevehink7889 Oh yeah! Those are the best innersleeves bar none. I love them.

[@ch1525]

Looking forward to the updated findings! I just ordered a bunch of 12 inch dual pocket with tape on the flap... They seem to be a little too big for thin jackets as there is some overlap that needs to be folded over when sealing... But does work quite well for the gatefolds like the AP Atlantic series

[@tonypenate418]

I was looking for something like this but couldn’t come up with the how, thanks for this video.

[@ThePressingMatters]

You're welcome! I'm glad it's a bit clearer to you now.

[@Smr4666]

I have been using VSS products for more than a year. I absolutely love the dbl pocket sleeves for my gatefold jackets. I also use them for my favorite non-gatefold sleeves. VSS is a small, veteran owned business who provides a great product!

[@ThePressingMatters]

Hi Scott, Do you use two on the gatefolds? I like making a relief cut like I show in the video. Someone suggested skipping that step and taping across the center gatefold but I found it bunched when opening the gatefold. Slight difference but it was significant for me. Great product and company.

[@Smr4666]

Yes, I use two sleeves for all of my gatefolds. I have been taping the flaps and do sometimes have “bunch/folding” at the center. I saw your hack and looks like it may work for me as well. I’m going to give it a go! Thanks for you videos. Always enjoy discovering vinyl I normally wouldn’t hear.

[@ThePressingMatters]

@@Smr4666 I would give the cut flap a try. If you can access a rotary paper cutter, you have to carefully cut the flap off but not go into the back of the pocket. I've cut a few too close but once you have the hang of it you won't screw up any. I keep a stack pre cut next to my regular ones and 3 mil sleeves. Try it out and if you like it better, check in the description box there is a link to the cutter that was recommended to me and I've been using.

[@Smr4666]

Hi Scott. I did try it out. Works well with very little, if any, bunching. Now I’ll have to go back and re-sleeve those I’ve already done!😂 😂 Great tip. Thanks for sharing. Did you take advantage of the VSS 30% off site-wide sale a couple weeks ago?

[@ThePressingMatters]

@@Smr4666 Great! I've tried the uncut method twice and both times I felt like the material was excessive when opening the gatefold. It would pull away too far from the spine. This solves that problem. I sometimes get too much material at the right hand side of the closed jacket. Depend on the size of the gatefold. I wonder if Mike could develop a sleeve that would snug a bit tighter to avoid that. Not sure if it's possible. But overall these are the best way to sleeve a collection. I love how they look on single Stoughton sleeves. Just perfect.

[@dabeastfranco]

Hello! Thank you for making this video. Got myself some VSS sleeves thanks to you! I do have a question. Anyway you can demonstrate how you will do a trifold with the sleeves?

[@ThePressingMatters]

You're welcome! I've not attempted a trifold yet, as I only have one, Tommy by The Who. Apparently there is a way to make a "bridge" that covers the center panel. It may even be something they sell. I'll see if I can find out.

[@dabeastfranco]

@@ThePressingMatters sooo. I bought VSS open ended dual resealable and trimmed both ends. Then I used two dual pockets with single slap. Used your method of trimming the sleeves. Thanks again!

[@ThePressingMatters]

Very cool! I will try it soon.

[@rufus_the_cat]

You know the other advantage to this is you don’t have to order separate, dedicated, bags for the gatefold. You can just make an even bigger and cost saving order of the sealable dual pockets. One thing you might want to mention is that there is an “adapter” system that turns the two dual pockets into trifold. Beautiful video Scott.

[@ThePressingMatters]

I'm not aware of the adapter system - I'll have to research how it works. Thank you for sharing that info!

[@rufus_the_cat]

@@ThePressingMatters it’s a plain bag open at both sides and adhesive on both sides as well. No pocket. You use it to bridge two regular dual pockets to extend them to a trifold

[@ThePressingMatters]

@@rufus_the_cat Great to know, can you do a demo video? That would be cool. My copy of Tommy needs help! ;-)

[@rufus_the_cat]

@@ThePressingMatters ok I’ll do one tonight

[@ThePressingMatters]

@@rufus_the_cat Hey one point about the paper trimmer. I don't think you can use the guillotine type - a rotary one works best. I just put a link in the description box to the one that was the model that my friend John recommended to me. If you do end up trying this, maybe with your cutter at work, be aware you are cutting right up to the edge of the back of the pocket. You want to get as close as possible but not cut into the pocket. If you look at one of your sleeves you'll see. I ruined two before I got the hang of it. The closer you get, the less material on the back edge of the folded jacket. I'm going to try simply taping the two inside pieces without a cut flap tonight. A few people mentioned it, but I can't see how it wouldn't buckle up. The relief cut that you create with the paper cutter makes the end effect very similar to the inside of the one piece gatefold system, and you have a tighter fit and less swimming.

[@Geoduck.]

I started using The Vinyl Solutions inner and outer sleeves a couple years ago. It's not expensive and protects the cover and more importantly the disk.

[@ThePressingMatters]

I agree, they are comparable to other high quality sleeves in price and there's no going back for me. I love them!

[@jeremyh5404]

Wow. Nice. I have these sleeves, and have been irritated how the material bunches up, when doing a gatefold. So I tried their gatefold sleeves and didn’t like that they weren’t dual pocket. I think I will try your method of cutting off the extra flap. Also, wonder how one of the tuckable sleeves would work in that combination, so I wouldn’t have the unused tape portion on the inside of the gatefold.

[@ThePressingMatters]

The main goal in doing it this way is for it not to bunch. I couldn't deal with the full gatefold solution - no pockets, flaps sort of in the way. Getting a paper cutter and carefully trimming a batch was the best solution. That way there is a relief cut and it should not bunch at all. I wouldn't worry about the unused tape. You won't even notice it after you get used to it. I kind of like the stripe in white. Overall this solution gives you a clear readable spine, storage for one or two records. The jacket is perfectly protected. The only issue that sometimes crops up is a little too much material on the right edge, and a lot of this is out of your control depending on the size of the gatefold. I have found the 12" works on most everything when done this way, but occasionally you might need a 12.76. There are a few mm tolerances allowed and I've gotten some that were just right and some were too tight. But I found plenty of use for the tighter ones in doing a single sleeve jacket with those. In the end it not 100% perfect solution for gatefolds but for complete coverage and consistency with the whole collection, it can't be beat. Hope this helps. There is a link for a paper cutter in the description that I bought. Be aware to do it in bright light so you slice it just up to where the pocket begins. Too far and you'll slice the sealed end of the pocket! You will screw up one or two, but once you get a flow going you'll do a stack no problem. Just keep them separate for the back panel and your full ones uncut for the front piece.

[@ultron9]

Thank you for this informative vid and your exploration of this topic. I've noticed in the last few years that many record collectors are storing the record and inner sleeve outside of the jacket within the outer sleeve. I tried this method for awhile but I now feel the record is best protected within the jacket and the LPs take up less room within a record shelf. I used 2 mil and 3 mil polypro from Clear Bags and Sleeve City. Inner sleeves are MoFi and a few other brands...rice paper type. I may try the 3 mil inners you recommend on your vid.

[@ThePressingMatters]

You're welcome, and thank you for your comment. I really struggled with the decision to do this dual pocket system. As you know it's not a simple decision! It's an investment in time, money and space. For me, I felt protecting the jacket was of the utmost importance. I'm not crazy about the record stored separately, but that's the only way to insure the jacket stays pristine. This system seemed to me to be the best compromise. It's not perfect but I'm convinced it's right for my needs. I completely understand not wanting to go there. It's a big production resleeving this way. Do try a pack of the 3ml inner sleeves. I think you'll find them superior to anything out there. Thanks again for watching and sharing your view on it !

[@ultron9]

@@ThePressingMatters Your carefully considered reply is appreciated and I can see your point of view and the criteria you employed in making your choices. I'll definitely be continuing to feel things out and I enjoy your reviews, especially the classical segments.

[@ThePressingMatters]

You're welcome! I've got a couple of exciting classical segments coming up soon!

[@cave70]

Hi Scott, I'm so glad you did a video on these sleeves. I recently purchased the new Kirsten Edkins LP. It's gatefold and I cannot get it to fit my MOFI outer sleeves. I don't like leaving my albums without an outer sleeve. I like your solution. You made it look really easy. Did you have to do it a few times until you got it right. It's a bit embarrassing for me to share this, but trying anything new makes me anxious. However, I, like you care about the condition of my sleeves. Perhaps I'll reach out to VSS and ask them for a couple of samples. I'm curious on your take on Samarah Joy. You may have done a video on her and I missed it. If you've not heard her new LP, I'd give it a spin. She is musically wise beyond her years. Also, her band if fantastic. Food for thought. Take care. Johnny K.😀

[@ThePressingMatters]

Hi Johnny, thanks so much for your comment. I really have to get the Kirsten Edkins LP. How did you like it? Many have recommended it to me. I'll probably get it soon and I'll try sleeving it and show you the result in the video! But yes, do reach out to VSS. Some people have reported Mike no longer owns it but maybe try a pack of the 3mil inner sleeves and request a few samples. The ones I showed come a bit larger as well but these have worked on everything so far. I'll be showing some of the other offerings in another video. I haven't heard of the other artist you mentioned but I will check it out. Thanks for the info, and thank you for watching and commenting as always!

[@jonathancarmichael1578]

Very helpful!

[@ThePressingMatters]

Great, glad to help

[@steve-mpinc]

Great videos Scott- thanks! I ordered the sample packs to figure out what I need to re-sleeve what I have and look at the inner sleeve options. Question- is there any reason you can't use the 12" Dual Pocket Outer Sleeves w/ One Flap for the front side of a gatefold to avoid having the tape left on the inside? Thanks again and sorry if this is a redundent question.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Hi Steve, I'm trying to picture what you mean but to get the wrap around flap (no seam) on the spine you have to do it this way. Now if the inner tape really bothers you, there is a dual pocket tape on flap sleeve. That could be used so that there is no tape strip on the inside. You should watch the follow up video - go to the end to see a demo of cutting the flap. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHi3goGYfZ6Zebcsi=O5ONTSL2-n2BfHbp You can also NOT cut the inner flap and join the back piece flap to the tape in the inside, right across the center of the gatefold. I found this solves the tape strip being visible but creates a bunching effect. I prefer to cut off the strip with a paper cutter. You'll see in the video how that works. Personally I soon forgot about the white tape strip and don't think of it as an visual obstruction, but a nice visual feature.

[@whitey7998]

Nice video Scott. I’ve been using these for a while now and love them, although I tend to save them for my new vinyl and special ones in my collection. For the run of the mill LPs in my collection I use standard 250g poly sleeves. You may find also that some of the new releases such as the Tone Poets for example are slightly too big. VSS do now supply 12.75 and 13” sleeves for those. I have tried the VSS gatefold sleeves and wasn’t overly impressed I must say. They were a little tricky to fit to be honest. They also do sleeves for One Steps and UHQR releases, which are decent if a little loose fitting.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Thanks so much. Yes so far I have been using them mostly on new vinyl and I have some variation in sizes if needed. I tried the one piece too and it wasn't for me. Too loose and tricky! I'll cover all of these and the box set ones in another vid. Great to hear from you!

[@christopherbarker181]

I must say the inner sleeves, the Mofi style and the clear, are very nice!😊

[@ThePressingMatters]

Yes those are very nice, either 2ml or 3 ml

[@AudiophiliaChannel]

You, sir, are getting bad for my bank balance! ;) After going with Mike’s Japanese resealables suggestion, though good, opening and closing them has become a bit of a pain. So, ordered a box of dual pockets. They look good. I know where this is going! lol I also finally found a pair of the Blenko ice block$ lol and a clean copy of your favourite EMI Le Cid, which is quite superior to my Greensleeves, now with one of my writers. Anyway, thanks for the great work. All the very best. Cheers, Anthony

[@ThePressingMatters]

Hi Anthony! I think you'll be happy with the dual pockets. I like that you rarely have a need to unseal them once they have been assembled. Much better than the Japanese type. That's so cool you found some Blenco Glass Blocks. They are something you'll admire forever. They are so beautiful. What color / design did you find? So which pressing of Le Cid did you get?

[@henryoliver2833]

I appreciate the OCDness but could just never do this - I like looking at the cover unmediated every once in a while to see it in its essential form

[@ThePressingMatters]

I totally understand that. I felt that way too. It's definitely not for everyone but the most obsessive. To me, keeping the jacket in perfect shape was important. I've seen so many beautiful jackets compromised by wear and handling. Since I spend so much for records, I feel like it's an investment in retaining the value and beauty of the records. It is a decision that's very personal. But yeah, I wonder if I'll miss handling the actual jacket. Thank you for watching and commenting Henry!

[@ergloo6660]

Having been collecting since the early 1960's your record jackets will be damaged or degraded with time if you do not "sleeve" them.

[@ThePressingMatters]

@@ergloo6660 For sure, I've been using something since the mid 70's - first the cloudy polyethylene type, later the Mylar type Japanese resealable, then a heavy 5mil polypropylene and finally these VSS sleeves. This is the first time with a few rare exceptions I've done the record outside the jacket. Fortunately most all of my jackets were in excellent condition, and I want to keep them that way. New records are so expensive now and many have gorgeous jackets, that protection such as this is essential to maintain the beauty and value of the collection.

[@KeithBage]

These look amazing and I am so tempted to do this. However, My records have been in storage a long time and I'm concerned they need cleaning before putting into new sleeves. What your opinion on ensuring they are clean before going this route. Ideally I would have a regime of cleaning and re-sleeving in one go but that would need reasonable investment.

[@automatedelectronics6062]

Thanks for another great video! You've got a good idea there, although it is a bit excessive. I avoid, with a passion, any kind of record cover which has sticky on it. I've learned the hard way by inadvertently laying an album cover or picture sleeve on the sticky. Then, when picking up the album cover, I realized what happened. No matter how carefully I tried to unstick the record from the sticky sleeve, usually the album cover tears. What I have been doing for decades is trying to leave the album cover in it's original shrink wrap. Looking at my original copy of The Doors "The Soft Parade", which I've had since it's initial release, the gatefold album cover still looks like new. The record's vinyl dam edge has left an impression, but because the album cover has not rubbed against another album cover, because of it's shrink wrap, there has been no color transfer nor any color rubbed off. Ring wear stems from the record creating an impression in the cover, and then albums with no protection rub against each other and wear off the ink. Another concern about album covers are the spines. I haven't done it yet, but a full-sized piece of cardboard should be place inside the sleeve to protect the spine from being crushed. The album covers being made now have definite spines, especially the gatefold album covers. Keeping the record(s) between the gatefold should help protect the spine. But even with those double sleeves, the record vinyl dam can still leave an impression on the album cover. Back in the 78 rpm album era, a piece of corrugated cardboard was placed between the inside of the front cover(sometimes rear covers too, and the first record in it's sleeve. This not only protected the records from being crushed but it also protected the spines by keeping them square. I just use the 3 mil outer plastic sleeves and have the record outside the record cover, but inside the outer sleeves. I'm always futzing with my albums, moving them around so they aren't compressed and making room for more albums. I haven't noticed any wear. The other day I did drop my original copy of "Cosmo's Factory" from it's shelf about 6 feet up and it broke when it hit the hard floor. If we still had carpeting, it wouldn't have broken. I have been looking for a replacement copy but those are as hard to find as hen's teeth. I have never been a fan of lined record inner sleeves because they can create static electricity from sliding the records in and out of them. I don't recall many of the Mofi or QRP lined sleeves where the records could slide out easily. sometimes I could hold that type of inner sleeve by the bottom corners with the opening pointing down and the records would not come out. Speaking of RTI, do you remember years ago when records they pressed came in those pink plastic sleeves. Those were anti-static and the same material electronic parts and circuit boards came in. Years ago when I would buy a record made in England, the album covers often had a plastic coating on them. This, like the plastic outer sleeves, protected records from reach other when rubbing. Also, the LP's pressed by Decca had lined inner sleeves. These, for some reason, didn't create static electricity. I loved these and wish I could buy those today. I even think that the paper of those lined sleeves and unlined sleeves was made out of rice paper.

[@ThePressingMatters]

All excellent and detailed information and it's much appreciated. One thing I can say about the tape in this sleeve, is it's designed to be used once. The jacket is sealed and need never be opened again. The record slides out of the extra pocket as it would with a normal unsleeved jacket. I would never use one where I would have to fight the tape each time. That's the beauty of this system. Granted not for everyone though! It's a bit fussy!

[@ThePressingMatters]

Replying to the issue of leaving the shrink wrap on, I've been tempted to do this, especially if there are hype stickers, but I am wary of them continuing to shrink. I've come across older albums kept in shrink and though it might of not been in ideal conditions, I have witnessed bending of the jacket and record. Granted if kept in ideal temperatures and humidity this wouldn't be an issue. But I opt to remove it and use a sleeve. I can remove the hype sticker and reattach them to the new sleeve or inner sleeve. I'm very wary of ringwear and do what I can to prevent it. Not packing tightly and using outer sleeves was good enough. But ring impression (without ink print lost as a result) still could occur so I looked into sleeving the record outside the jacket. This led naturally to dual pocket which is an even better solution for me. No more handling of the unprotected jacket at all. I like it for all my new and best kept records.

[@ThePressingMatters]

The idea of cardboard in the jacket and gatefold is excellent advice. I've been experimenting with it in a small way with the AP 45s that came in a wide single pocket jacket. Those definitely need some support inside of the records are outside. In general keeping things loosely packed and upright should help avoid the issue but I'm still exploring that I can't imagine what I'd use? Acid free archival board? It could get pricy I put regular cardboard mailer inserts in the APs and i worry about browning or foxing. So much anxiety!

[@ThePressingMatters]

Yes, I love laminated jackets and todays similar high gloss types. Really protects the image. I threw out those pink sleeves when there was a scare about a powdery, oily substance getting in the records. I also ditched those thick pvc envelopes that were on some records for a similar reason! Vinyl fogging over time!

[@automatedelectronics6062]

@@ThePressingMatters I haven't often seen a problem with shrink wrap. It should shrink only once when run through the heated tunnel. If it distorts the album cover, I would think that the shrink wrap was too small to begin with. I've never had a problem with leaving the shrink wrap on. I have atleast 2 albums which are still sealed in their original shrink wrap. One album is a binaural demonstration LP from the late-60's to early-70's. The other is a still sealed documentary LP about J.F.K. probably from the mid-60's. Neither album shows signs of the cover being distorted or even any signs of ring wear. Back in the 80's, I was a customer and friends with a record rental store. They would rent an LP and when it was returned, they carefully inspected it for damage and if OK, they would clean the records on an RCM then place them back in the album cover and shrink wrap it. After about 5 rentals, they would sell it. We used to have a Tower Records store in town and they were always playing records on their store stereo system. An employee could pick any record out of stock and play it. They would then take them to the back room and re-seal them in shrink wrap and put them back in the new record bins. They also did this when customers returned records. There were record stores who would play a record for you if you were interested in buying it, but you didn't have to buy it if you didn't want it. The last record/stereo store which had record listening stations that I personally knew of was called Stereo West in San Luis Obispo, CA back in the mid-70's.

[@blackgold7416]

Great video, are you ordering from Michael 45rpm or from within the UK?. I was hoping to order from within the UK. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@ThePressingMatters]

Thank you, No, I am in the US so I just order direct from Canada. We're very fortunate as we can get free shipping over $50.

[@blackgold7416]

@@ThePressingMatters Thanks for responding for some reason I thought you were in the UK. I noticed your system in your write up, beautiful system, interesting combination. 👍

[@false_binary]

Thank you for this review, really well done! However I am interpreting your method correctly that you actually ought dual pocket outer sleeves w/sealable flap (4 mil), trimmed one, used another stock and combined them for the Peterson gatefold example? I ask bc I am shopping these now and there are dedicated gatefold products on their site.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Thank you! Yes I am combining a cut dual pocket with a full one to form my own gatefold. I prefer the tape on body version, but it can be done with the tape on flap version as well. I did another demo in this video, toward the end where it's pretty clear, including the cutting. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHi3goGYfZ6Zebcsi=C5-LThCnLUeo0CJa I have tried the one piece gatefolds from VSS but didn't care for them. You can request a sample of one or perhaps buy one to try. It's not dual pocket so you are going in and out of the flaps and jacket. They tend to be a little loose too.

[@false_binary]

Love your channel, thank you so much...I will review (I like your method here...Peter Gabriel's i/o is driving me nuts in a Japanese 3m and I must get it covered properly! lol)@@ThePressingMatters

[@ThePressingMatters]

Also be aware that it's good to have 12 and 12.75 sleeves on hand to insure you have the best sized sleeve for each particular gatefold. There also is a margin of tolerance so different batches can be slightly off, but there's always a use for them, either on single pocket jackets and odd size jackets in general. Any other questions feel free to ask.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Thank you so much! I haven't picked up Peter's new album yet so I can't say exactly which sleeve to use in that case. Try sleeping the new 4x45 of The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway! If you figure it out let me know!

[@jasonwhiton174]

Looks great!

[@ThePressingMatters]

They look so nice all together on a shelf. Kind of elevated the experience of choosing what to play. It kind of dovetails with one of the reasons we choose the vinyl format. The tactile experience, taking care of the object and admiring the artwork. All that is enhanced with these.

[@chandlerdickson3993]

I just buy the gatefold sleeves for vinyl storage solutions. I noticed they had a 25 percent off sale and grabbed a bunch of them.

[@ThePressingMatters]

I have the one piece gatefolds and other sleeves that I'll cover in another video. Great choice too, and a bit less fussy!

[@jeremyreed3318]

Love the storage sleeves. Does anyone make sleeves for gatefold?

[@ThePressingMatters]

They do, they are one piece with flops that tuck. No tape. No dual pocket. The records stay on the jacket. See if you can request a sample with an order. Maybe get some of their superb 3ml inner sleeves and request a sample of the gatefold. I'm sure they'll help you out.

[@michaellourie4252]

I guess my post got taken down because I provided a link to another product. I love the VSS dual pocket sleeves with the white plastic strip. I am not a fan of the ones with the flap. I did find inner sleeves that I prefer, which are from "sleeve city". They are the most sturdy inner sleeve I have found and are really easy and functional to use. They are called "Diskeeper Ultimate Audiophile Inner Sleeve"

[@ThePressingMatters]

Hi Micheal, Yes KZbin doesn't allow links but I encourage people to also try some of the sleeves Micheal mentions from Sleeve City. I have heard positive things about them over the years and it might be good to try a pack from a few different companies before going all in.

[@christopherbarker181]

Scott, you didn’t stipulate which size you are using for, say Tone Poet gatefold and Blue Note MM, Analogue Productions etc. 2.25 and maybe the single Non gatefold Tone Poets and Classic reissues. I know they offer some different sizes but maybe you just choose one size. I noticed how nice and tight they fit. Thanks for the great video. I have all the great reissues of all types but would like to know what size for each. How about all the Analogue Productions 45 reissues that were not gatefold just two albums in the jacket? I would hate to make a mistake on a nice order. Any help would be appreciated.😊

[@ThePressingMatters]

Hi Christopher. Since switching to the dual pocket system, I only need to use one size. All my Tone Poets Music Matters, Acoustic Sounds fit them. It is the 12" dual pocket. Fits single Tone Poets, Prestige, Contemporary etc perfectly with virtually no excess material. I also use the same for the gatefolds using the method I show in the video. Now be aware that doing the gatefolds in this manner does leave a 1/2 inch of material on the right of the closed gatefold. It's not perfect but fits well in all other aspects. There's no need for a larger size unless you are just going to drop the whole gatefold in and seal it in it's closed state (meaning not to be opened again) In that case you might need 12.75, but if you want the full coverage for the open gatefold the 12 has worked fine for me. The AP 45s in the single jacket are a problem. Those have to go in a 13" single, but I'm still trying to figure out if a 12.75 dual pocket could work on those. I'll try when I get back into town.

[@ThePressingMatters]

I would get enough of the 12 dual pockets to hit the free shipping threshold and see how that goes. You'll love them for your single modern tip ons. Or maybe try a pack of the 3 mil inners and enough of the outer to get to free shipping. Play with that until you're convinced they are right for you, then make a larger order if needed. You can request a couple of samples of others you might be interested in and they will ship them with your order.

[@christopherbarker181]

@@ThePressingMatters Thanks a bunch Scott. I’ve been using the “Blake Sleeve” for several years but the last batches I’ve received have had finger prints embedded in the plastic and they look really bad. I also want to get some of the clear inner sleeves to show off some of my finer albums. I’ve used Mofi inners but I like the idea of the more substantial version that doesn’t bunch up. Hopefully, their inventory is good. You have a great channel!

[@ThePressingMatters]

Thanks! Let me clarify one thing in case. The dual pocket 12" fits the larger gatefolds when used as a two piece gatefold. In other words the closed gatefold will not just drop in to a 12" dual pocket in its closed state. It only works as part of the two piece dual pocket gatefold system I show at the end of the video. Also if you go this route, a paper cutter to trim the flap off the back sleeve will be necessary. This will provide the relief cut you want when the two parts meet in the center inside gatefold. Doing that cut is tricky the first time you do it. You can easily overshoot and cut into the pocket, rendering that sleeve useless. I did recommend the paper cutter I and another collector use. It's in the description box and the link should still be active. If this all sounds confusing it will all make sense once you've done a few!

[@ThePressingMatters]

Also note your smaller gatefolds and some older albums will have a little more room. This is unavoidable, but not that big a deal. That's why I suggest trying this on a small scale to be sure you like it. It took me several weeks to adjust to various issues before finally deciding ie: having the record on the back of the package, the thickness increase of doing this, the issue of two record sets (I do one inside the gatefold on the left and one on the back) etc.

[@stateniland]

the protective sleeves I ordered from the same Co. do not have the peel and stick closure.. both ends have flaps that get tucked into the sleeve.. no more peel & stick. 2 thumbs up

[@ThePressingMatters]

Yes, that is a different model, which I had tried as well. Many people prefer them. Does it have a dual pocket? I think they have both single and dual pocket with flaps.

[@jameshogg11]

VSS do sell a gatefold sleeve (at least their UK reseller does over here) so you don't have to use two single sleeves. I assume you were aware of this though and have decided to do it with 2 sleeves i.e. the harder / more expensive way? 🙂

[@ThePressingMatters]

Hi James Yes I have so E one piece and will cover them and other offerings on another video. I found these work better for my needs and I had more control over the fit. Also the dual pockets were important to me to have the records out of the jacket. But when the one piece works, and fits well, it's a beauty too.

[@Bondrkmz]

After watching this video I’ve decided to give the dual pocket gatefold a try. I like it a lot. Probably only complaint I have is the white stripe on the interior for the tape portion that isn’t being used. I wonder if the version that has the dual pocket with the tape on the flap instead of the tape on the body would solve that? I think maybe so. Too bad VSS doesn’t have that in stock currently. Anyways, thanks for this video, it was very helpful.

[@ThePressingMatters]

You'll love them particularly for single jackets. The modern, Stoughton style tip on jackets are a bit larger than the older standard jackets and fit beautifully. There's a few quirks with the putting together of a gatefold, and the unused tape is a minor one. You wont even notice it after you get used to it. I had a little trouble getting used to a two record gatefold. It seemed odd to have one record inside and one on the back. It's a small sacrifice for total preservation of the jacket. I hope you like them.not sure if you ordered yet but try out a pack to make sure, and request a sample of the one piece gatefold just to compare.

[@Bondrkmz]

Yeah, I’ve made two separate orders so far. Still trying to figure out what type I like. I haven’t tried the formal gatefold ones they offer because I prefer the dual pocket approach, like in your video. Your right, the stripe isn’t really that big of a deal. Small price to pay to have it protected. Thanks again.

[@roslanrahman2935]

Hi Scott, great video.. I’m new to record collecting and found this video to be very helpful.. I have some questions to ask which I hope you don’t mind answering..What do you do with the hype sticker on the shrink? Is it important to keep the hype stickers? Some of them are quite informative or have wonderful designs..

[@ThePressingMatters]

Hi Roslan, I have all my hype stickers saved in a box. I don't recommend keeping shrink wrap on because it could warp the jacket or record over time and it takes away fro the presentation. I'm planning to remove the stickers and put them on each package, probably on the inner sleeve at the bottom left, so that they can be seen when you pull out the record. That way if you have multiple copies, you can know which one you have chosen.

[@roslanrahman2935]

@@ThePressingMatters Thanks for the reply.. that’s a good idea.. I was wondering whether to stick them back on the outer sleeve or the inner sleeve.. but with the dual pocket outer sleeve, it makes sense to stick it on the inner sleeve..

[@ThePressingMatters]

@@roslanrahman2935 I think so, just in case you ever have to change out the outer sleeve, you have the sticker on the part of the package that will probably never have to be changed. Thanks for your comment! A good point that I forgot to mention.

[@roslanrahman2935]

@@ThePressingMatters Yes.. that’s right.. now I have to figure out the best way to peel the hype sticker from the shrink wrap 😅

[@ThePressingMatters]

@@roslanrahman2935 A friend of mine says a hair dryer on hot does the trick. Obviously get the record out of the jacket, and if you can do this before you remove the shrink it's easier because it's tight and flat. Since mine are off the record I don't know how easy it would be. So once you've decided you want to save them this way, it's best to do it at the start Just get the record out of the way of the heat! I've also had success just breathing on it several times and lifting a corner, then slowly peel and breathe (hot breath and moisture) as you slowly lift the sticker.

[@marksironi3324]

For non-gatefolds instead of using the sealable 2 pocket sleeves I use the 2 pocket sleeve with a single flap. Then I leave all the inserts inside the jacket and only put the record in the second pocket. This way there are no paper products in the with the record at all to (hopefully) minimize dust. Unfortunately you can't do this with gatefolds as the gatefold sleeves have no pockets and if you make your own you need to use sealable sleeves.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Hi thanks for your comment! So if I am understanding you put the jacket closed, inside the main compartment and the record in the pocket. I am a little torn on this. I do like the ability to open the gatefold, and it be covered, but rarely end up looking at the inside. Older smaller gatefolds kind of have too much material at the edge even if using the smallest size. I should give those a try in the way you do it. I have some of those here. I'll give an update soon. Thank you!

[@marksironi3324]

@@ThePressingMatters For non-gatefolds I put them in a dual pocket with flap in the same manner you do with a sealable. Except I put the jacket in such that the opening of the jacket is on the same side as the flap. Then all the paper ephemera that comes with the record goes back in the sleeve (along with the shrink if it has a hype sticker). So the only thing in the second pocket is the vinyl in a rice paper sleeve, i.e. no paper products at all. If I ever want to look at a lyric sheet or somesuch all I have to do is undo the flap and since the opening is right there I can access the inside of the jacket w/o removing it from the sleeve. For gatefolds I do exactly what you do. The only thing I do different is I puth both records (assuming 2) in the pocket inside the gatefold and all the inserts (i.e. the paper) in the pocket outside the gatefold. The intent is to ensure that there is no paper in with the vinyl at all.

[@danielgeiger7739]

I have all my ~1K 12/10/7" records in dual pockets and love it. However, I would recommend against the adhesive strips. I am a natural history museum curator and archival considerations are important in my job. Any modern glue will fail. Either it dries, crumbles to dust (no good with records), or becomes a sticky mess. The only exception are hide glue and PVA glue used in archival bookbinding. The more recent the re-attachable sticky material, the worse. Look at 20 year old Avery mailing labels. That also means that the flap is tucked in and is on the bottom of the outer sleeve compartment, and the records slides in from the top. I also put lyrics sheets etc. in front of record. Every back pocket has a record, but not every record has lyrics sheet, hype sticker, etc. By putting record in back, I immediately know whether there is additional material. I also throw "original" inner plain white/black paper sleeves in the recycling. I only keep those that have custom printing on them. Those go in the back pocket as the paper pulp of jackets is very acidic, so will eventual lead to foxing of the inner OG paper sleeve. OG paper, 3 mil record, lyrics sheet. So the 3 mil is separating the acidic paper sleeve from the lyrics sheet. Occasionally, I have also put some paper items into additional 3 mil inners. It is all about limiting contact between acidic paper items.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Excellent information from someone who would know! Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us. I appreciate all the detail you went into here and it definitely gives me something to think about. I'm sure many others as well! Thanks again for taking the time to respond here.

[@MykeWinters]

Hi, great video. I’m a passionate vinyl collector and I would like to ask your opinion on something please. Would you take the factory seal off and then store with these duel pockets or leave it on? Currently I have always left this sealing on and then placed the vinyl into a resealable ultra clear poly sleeve. Cheers man

[@ThePressingMatters]

Hi, thanks for the question. I'm not sure if you're talking about completely sealed albums or ones that are still in shrink wrap? If it were completely sealed, I would put it in an outer sleeve. I remove the shrink wrap from any record that's been slit open, and then put it into a new outer sleeve. I save any hype stickers and put them in the jacket.

[@cimen9793]

11:31 hi, If I order no sealable 1 flap version can I just tuck in flap to other sleeves inside? 11:33 I hope my question and my english is understandable and you can answer have a good day.

[@ThePressingMatters]

I think you are talking about Dominga gatefold with two dual pockets? Yes you can leave the inner flap free instead of sticking it to the other flaps tape. But expect some movement as you open and close. I found it best to trim or cut the flap.

[@cimen9793]

thank you for answering I'm trying to ask for where flap beion on out side not albums inside flap. where flap being on albums outside part must I stick flap to other sleeves or can I just tuck in to other sleeves inside? Thank you again for trying to understand my bad english.

[@ThePressingMatters]

@@cimen9793 Thank ok! Happy to try to help. With a single jacket, just use the dual pocket sleeve as is, and orient the opening of the jacket to go into the sleeve first. The flap should wrap around the spine and attach to the tape on the back. For a gatefold - one sleeve goes over the right side so the tape is on the back and the flap in the middle of the gatefold. Cutting off that flap beforehand is optional. Then the left side of the gatefold - pull the sleeve on so the tape is on the inside of the gatefold and the flap will wrap around to meet the tape of the other sleeve in back. Strip the tape on the back and pull the flap around the spine to meet the tape.

[@ThePressingMatters]

I see what you are asking. No I think you need sealable dual pocket sleeves for both sides.

[@cimen9793]

can I remove all tapes easly from sleeves if I don't want use tape? cuz you leave tape inside the album 10:08

[@jpwhite1977]

I tried the VSS dual pocket system but ended up ditching them for standard resealable sleeves. They looked nice but I did notice ring wear on the sleeves (LPs were fine) after a couple months, which was disappointing. I was also concerned the sleeves might warp some of my records since the fit was tight while other LPs would fall out of the pocket because it was too loose. Overall, a good product, and a great company from what I could tell; just not my cup of tea.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Thanks for your comment. I understand your experience, and I agree that this is not going to be for everyone. I don't think there is a perfect system that will meet everyone's criteria. For me I'm about 1/4 of the way in to my resleeving, and although I have minor reservations, mostly about custom fit and cost, it's working for me. Thanks for sharing your experience with my readers. It's a big decision to make and your input is valuable.

[@BrockSamsonite]

They actually sell a gatefold double flap with tape sleeve. You can also get it without the tape if you want to store the records in the gatefold jacket still. You dont need to cut those...

[@ThePressingMatters]

Hi, Thanks for your comment. I have tried the gatefold with no tape flaps, and they are a good product. I do not want to store the records in the jacket though, so using the dual pockets in this way works better for me. I like that you can somewhat customize the fit. And have a pocket for the record. I'm not crazy about how thick it gets with a double record set though, so while not perfect, I do like the jacket protection, which is a big reason for doing this in the first place. They really do have a product for every need.

[@BrockSamsonite]

@ThePressingMatters ah ok i see. You want outer pockets on a gatefold. I guess thats a bit better, but im too worried ill screw up the sleeves cutting them to resize them. I actually like keeping the records inside the jacket for a double gatefold because then when i want to listen to it i have to appreciate the inner artwork on the gatefold when i open the jacket up to get it out. But i can see how your way can be more convenient.

[@ThePressingMatters]

@BrockSamsonite Im not sure if you've seen my follow up video - at the end of the video I show the cutting and construction a bit better. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHi3goGYfZ6Zebcsi=Kcyokz086ERLzOH1

[@steve-mpinc]

Scott- when do the gatefolds, how much extra material are you left with? I have some with close to a 1/2". The first sets I did were close to perfect, but once into my second and third package of 25 the sleeve seem longer.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Yeah this is an issue. There are some variation within a size, unfortunately. You must get the smallest size available. 12.75 can be too roomy. Then there are variations in jacket size across labels.

[@ThePressingMatters]

I wish they would make a sleeve that's for people who do this so we could get a more custom fit.

[@steve-mpinc]

@@ThePressingMatters Thanks Scott- I've been using the 12" sleeves. Fact is its still looks good, just not perfect!

[@ThePressingMatters]

@@steve-mpinc I know. This is one area that can drive me crazy

[@MoaiG13]

Hello there, Did doing the dual pocket end up taking more space on the shelves? That is really my only concern as space for me is limited.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Yes it does. If that is a concern, then opt for one of their tuckable or tape flap single pocket sleeves. I'm finding out the hard way. Those two record gatefolds are eating away my shelf space! But it's forcing me to curate and get rid of dead wood so to speak. It's a very real consideration before you jump in to it.

[@MoaiG13]

Thanks for the quick reply! Yes I'm thinking of the single with the flap. Cheers! @@ThePressingMatters

[@coolcicada]

Hi, is it the "12" Dual Pocket Outer Sleeves w/ Sealable Flap" that you use? And is it the "tape on body" or "tape on flap" option? Thank you for your video.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Yes, that's the one, with tape on body. One thing to note, my most recent batch was cut exactly on spec. Previously, my last batch had a few extra mm of room. So I checked with the company and they are trying to tighten up the specs to be more consistent. So these exact ones are great for most older single and gatefold jackets. But now it seems we need to have the 12.75 on hand for the larger modern Stoughton single and gatefolds. It's actually a good thing because you can customize for the best fit.

[@illumon8]

I noticed the same thing, some records and gatefolds require the 12.75”. I bought a pack of 13” also but have not had to use the yet. I bought another 500 12” and am doing th same thing you are by culling my collection and picking the records I truly will play and putting aside all the records someone else can enjoy.

[@ThePressingMatters]

@@illumon8 I'm actually really liking the "tighter tolerance" 12" dual pocket sleeves for certain albums. My Speakers Corner and similar single jackets fit beautifully with no excess material. Looks like I'll need to have both these and 12.75 on hand. Things are coming along good. My shelves of releeved items looks amazing! I can clearly read the spine without a seam obscuring the view. Are you setting it up for the flap to wrap around the spine?

[@illumon8]

@@ThePressingMatters. I pretty much do the same thing you do in your video where the tape flap wraps the spine and I agree, the shelf looks amazing and I don’t always need my reading glasses to see the spines now :-). This is one of my favorite benefits of this solution.

[@claudetheruler]

WAIT!! Dual pocket one flap: On their website they are loading album the other way, flap on bottom and folding it in. Leaving upper open pocket for record. But you’re doing it this way, so which is the correct way? Also, I like your method BUT aren’t you worried about the heated plastic (where panels are bonded) will bend up your album?

[@ThePressingMatters]

Hi Claude, People use these both ways. Some like to access the record from the top. I prefer conventional from the side access. It's also lets the spine be wrapped by the flap which looks great. I'm not sure what you mean by heated plastic. Do you mean seams? I choose one of the sizes that are not too tight. Just enough room without too much excess.

[@ariefpoerniawan]

Where to get those sleeves?

[@ThePressingMatters]

Vinyl Storage Solutions in Canada. They have frequent sales, pretty much every holiday, and ship free over a certain amount.

[@SublimMedia]

Great video!!!

[@ThePressingMatters]

Thanks! If anyone hasn't seen SublimMedia's video on outer sleeves please check it out.

[@chrismckee4154]

BTW, I still use the tape on the inside of the gatefold. Do you just feel like it’s not neat and clean enough to use it? Hence the precutting you’re doing?

[@ThePressingMatters]

I was told the flap would tend to bunch of left free but I hadn't heard of sealing it. I did it the way I was taught but I'm going to try this tonight. So on the inside it's just laid flat and taped where it meets? It would seem like the whole sleeve will move when closed.

[@chrismckee4154]

@@ThePressingMatters if done properly there is little to no bunching, but I’m sure your pre-cutting would eliminate that altogether. And yes, the tape is on the inside of the gatefold and seals from there. Let me know how it goes!

[@ThePressingMatters]

Ok I'll try one tonight!

[@makistsobanou9451]

Single jacket with 2 LPs?

[@ThePressingMatters]

Do you mean the type Analogue Productions was using for a while? I haven't figured out a good solution for those except to leave them intact in a 13" single outer sleeve.

[@danmartinez5502]

I use the double gatefold with flaps

[@ThePressingMatters]

A good choice if you are storing the records in the jacket. I do like constructing my own so I can take advantage of a more custom fit, and utilize the dual pocket aspect. Neither is perfect but it's nice to have choices. Thanks so much for watching!

[@danmartinez5502]

Good video I spoke to Mike many times over the years. He is a good guy who cane up with a great concept. I have a large collection and his products were and are superior products. I am happy for his success.

[@arturthelioncub9376]

The only concern I have is that by going this route you lose space, so when you’re short of storage for your vinyl I wonder if it’s a good idea to use these sleeves, still, I will have to try to find out :-)

[@ThePressingMatters]

This is a small but not insignificant issue if space is at a premium. One of my other viewers did do the calculation, and I'll see if he can chime in on his findings.

[@ergloo6660]

I've always stored the records themselves on the outside. Why? It prevents damage caused by fingernails to the jacket opening

[@ThePressingMatters]

Absolutely. I didn't mention that type of wear, but yes, it's the best solution. Do you use the dual pocket sleeves or just put both jacket and record separately in a one pocket sleeve. I used to do that only for really fragile jackets.

[@AyalaMatherd]

I didn’t find any on Amazon US, does anyone know where to find these in the the US, or if any of the dual pocket offerings (Big Fudge has some) on Amazon are the same quality? Great video. I’m relatively new to collecting vinyl, but not to collecting music. I’ve been using Invest in Vinyl’s inner anti-static sleeves, and their outer archival acetate sleeves. Up to this point I’ve been putting the entire gatefold album into one outer sleeve until I can find dual pocket sleeves. I just received two albums from Amazon (not my usual store choice) with small short, small splits on the spine. I know they’re not the greatest at storing vinyl, though they seem to be getting better at shipping (albeit inside the sleeve). One album was a special edition, and it’s sold out, no option for replacement there. The other is just a repress, so I’ll send it back. Bummed about that split on the special edition however.

[@ThePressingMatters]

The VSS sleeves are from Canada. Ordering from the website is very easy and shipping is very reasonable. Frequent sales, on every holiday help and I think it's free shipping over a certain level. Dual pocket is a big decision if you have a large collection to resleeve. But you owe it to yourself to at least try some samples. They have sample packs available. I like Amazon for vinyl - I mostly buy audiophile series there and they always are packed in a cardboard jacket and outer box. Rarely have an issue and when I do, it's simple for replacement IF it's not sold out.

[@AyalaMatherd]

@@ThePressingMatters Thank you so much. I just started getting back into vinyl, so I only have about 25 albums at the moment. I’m also glad I didn’t get rid of my CD collection, I’ll only have to replace a few that are beat up from car cases. I’m trying to get back to that tactile music experience.

[@ThePressingMatters]

@AyalaMatherd That's wonderful! Just choose wisely, things of good quality that you know you'll listen to often. Building a collection is such a satisfying hobby. If I can help with any questions, please feel free to ask!

[@illumon8]

Do you use two 12” or the the 12.75” for double gatefold 45 rpm? How about single gatefold? Do you use two 12” or do you use the 12.75”?

[@ThePressingMatters]

I have one size for all - I think it's 12". It works in all situations. I'll doublecheck when I'm home.

[@christopherbarker181]

I just re-sleeved the Mofi Miles Davis Sorcerer that was just repressed and it turned out nice but if is wasn’t for the pockets, I could still do the same with the Blake Sleeve and it’s much clearer. Granted, the VSS is a thicker mil but that hurts the clarity and all these I received had lines and dimples so maybe since Mike sold the rights they are not of the same quality. Also, if the jacket happens to be black it’s not going to look good at all…sorry but I’m just being honest.😒

[@ThePressingMatters]

Last batch I got in the last two weeks were fine as far as clarity, but where before were a little roomy, now are so close to tolerance that they don't fit a tone poet single size jacket.so a few changes going on since Mike left. Sorry it didn't work out for you.

[@adamwilson1691]

seems like a bit of overkill to me. I like handling the jacket, especially if there's a gatefold. puts me in the mindset of when vinyl was the only way everyone experienced music back in the day. I like to take care of my vinyl but I dont like to baby it.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Hi Adam, I understand your perspective on it. Several have mentioned similar thoughts on it. I admit it could be viewed overkill, but for me I can't stand to see wear on jackets. It bugs me to no end. This prevents that. Yes you don't have direct tactile experience with the jacket but you can certainly view it. When I no longer need my collection, it will be NM for someone else. It also protects its value.

[@helgar791]

I quickly solved any hesitation for putting my records outside the covers by buying white dye cast blank jackets, putting the record into the jacket, then putting both in the outside pocket. Problem solved.

[@ThePressingMatters]

Great solution, that hadn't occurred to me. That is the ultimate in protection!

[@helgar791]

@@ThePressingMatters Thanks. But be warned. This solution is more costly and it takes up more room in the shelves. I buy these jackets from Sleeve City. They give a good deal and the jackets are of good quality. Also the Sleeve City Ultimate Inner Sleeves (which are double sided "rice paper" sleeves) are easily the best solution for most applications and users. The best sleeves on the market by far however are the MA Recordings inner sleeves. But these sleeves are costly, and since they're opaque you can't see the labels. I've found these best for archival use. In other words, I use them for my most expensive records.

[@ThePressingMatters]

@helgar791 I’m comfortable with the way I'm doing it, as I just can't afford to give up any more shelf space to a thicker package. Were already bursting at the seams! Maybe for a special rarity. I'll look into your other suggestions. Thanks for all the great info!

[@christopherbarker181]

Per your recommendation, I placed an order with Vinyl Storage Solutions. I must say, I was not impressed by the clarity. It you are looking for a single pocket resealable, the Clear Bags “Blake Sleeve” is much clearer. (BLP1 and BLPD) I am not complaining about the quality and the design and Im sure most collectors will be satisfied.😊

[@ThePressingMatters]

I'm sorry you did not find the clarity satisfactory. I think the Blake sleeve might employ a different material. The thickness (4ml) might reduce clarity a bit, but it's the first time I've heard a comment regarding that. Did you like the dual pocket design?

[@freedom9041]

I will put the other way, protecting the actual record in a sealed pocket and jacket in outer pocket.

[@ThePressingMatters]

I could see that being beneficial for ultimate protection of the record

[@chrislj2890]

This system makes no sense to me. The whole point of the jacket is to protect the record. With that if you somehow dropped something like a record brush you could get damage, but not if it's inside the jacket. I have LPs I bought in the early '70s that are still in decent shape even though I never put anything on them. Of course now I use inner sleeves and outer single and gatefold sleeves and that is more than enough for me. Then again I'm not a "collector" as I don't buy multiple versions of the same thing if I have a decent sounding copy. By the way, I enjoy your coverage of the RCA Living Stereo albums as I love them and have been trying to get them all. Hmm, does that make me a collector, lol.

[@ThePressingMatters]

I understand it's not for everyone. It's very possible to protect u too our collection with simple outer sleeves. I have for years. Why I like these is there is no action taking a toll on the jacket. I also like that there is no possibility of ring impression or ring wear. I just like my jackets to remain as new looking as possible. It's a bit obsessive I know! Lol! Glad you're enjoying the Living Stereo videos. More coming along that line, stay tuned!

[@chrislj2890]

@@ThePressingMatters I'm right in the middle of placing another order with Acoustic Sounds right now. Getting the Royal Ballet Gala that you reviewed and a few others. It seems like since I retired A.S. and Music Direct are getting most of my disposable income, lol.

[@ThePressingMatters]

@@chrislj2890 You cant go wrong with Royal Ballet Gala!

[@audiotomb]

Those dual pockets are ridiculous - a condom for your record collection A nice outer sleeve (wider if thicker) If they are not rice paper lined - Replace the inner sleeve Place the lps in the outer sleeve behind the covers at 90 degrees from the top (no dust gets in) Keep your artwork there as well You never have to stuff a record in a sleeve again Super easy to pull everything out and you don’t mess up your inner sleeves and art work

[@ThePressingMatters]

The method you describe performs a similar function. Many people were and are doing that, and I stared doing that for thin, fragile, or splitting jackets. The less wear and tear on those the better. I guess the dual pocket was a somewhat logical extension of that, even further protecting the jacket but still providing the same function. It is a bit overkill but it does work for its purpose. For obsessive wonky I guess and it still seems odd to me, but so far the trade off of it having to fiddle with the jacket has paid off. I totally get where you're coming from though. Who likes condoms!?

[@Trojan0304]

Want my inner sleeves inside album, just me p

[@ThePressingMatters]

I felt the same way, and the whole concept goes against logic. But when I really thought about it, I preferred to preserve the integrity of the jacket without subjecting it to wear. Once I tried it I was hooked. I get it is not for everyone. Many die hard collectors already did this, keeping the record beside the jacket in an outer sleeve. This is the ultimate refinement of that idea for people that prefer to do that.

[@JohnSmith-zl8rz]

Too tight! sleeves needs some space around. Also take care with moisture! plasitc sleeves like that can get mold. Also take care with that adhesive strip! many people can stick the record on the glue.

[@BillyHell01]

Correction Mike offers nothing - he sold the company ages ago - they used the old "Mike will continue to work in the background" line which everybody knows is Bullsh!t - he took the money and ran and if he ever turned up at the offices they would ask "What are you doing here? please Leave". The old-style gate fold is gross and messy - the one you showed but the new style also sucks as there are no pockets - I use 2 standard dual pocket sleeves with the pockets on the inside and a strip of double-sided tape on the back - there is no bunching on the inside fold you get with the stuck together version - all my products are 2mil.

[@BillyHell01]

I just ordered some new sleeves and had a look at my account - I've spent over 2 thousand dollars on sleeves - as I live in New Zealand a bit of that is postage, but my collection is perfect.

[@ThePressingMatters]

I was aware of the sale of VSS, but I did not know of the extent of Mike's involvement. At the time I originally started the idea for the video he was still around in some capacity. We even talked about an interview. It got put on the back burner, after a first attempt, and quite some time went by. He had sent samples of the whole line, but that video never was finished. So I ended up doing this short one on this sleeve much later. The sleeve you see in the video IS the single dual pocket 12" sleeve, it's not the premade gatefold! I didn't care for the one piece either. In this video I put two together, so there are two dual pockets. Still excellent products! Thanks for the info.