Catalog idea I've had

[steve B]

Discussing the print errors and discussing the differences between print errors, variations and what I call varieties* has made me consider an idea I've been thinking about for a while now.

Would there be much interest in a catalog that was looseleaf and very detailed?

What I'm picturing is doing an introductory section that covers the production process and a few other technical details. Then a section for each set laid out with a basic checklist including recognized variations (perhaps less the ones that really aren't) , followed by a more detailed listing of varieties that are issues with the plate, then a final section with much more detail if it exists like very small but real differences between print runs etc. And with all the varieties pictured wherever possible (Not sure how I'd get pictures of the different UD holograms)

It would be looseleaf, so someone could pick up only the section for each set or maybe for a group of sets. Sort of a customizable catalog.

I have really detailed notes on a few sets and could gradually develop those for others.
I'd have to figure out how to include as much as possible without difficulties with people who discovered stuff especially if it's been published. A bit of a potential copyrights issue. (The notes I've done myself aren't a problem at all, some of it is stuff I haven't even posted about. )

Would there be interest? And at what sort of price level?

Steve B



* plate differences that are often minor and don't fit most common ideas of what a variation is.

[Rich Klein]

Yes to a dedicated few people on a print to demand format,

I'd say for full color photos. etc you'd be looking at a minimum of $49.95 if not more to make this even a break even proposition

And my guess is you might sell at the most about 500 copies

Rich

[Rich Klein]

I'll also say that print to demand for lets say T206, Topps, etc might reduce the price and make your life easier as well. and keep costs down

[steve B]

Thanks Rich.

I'm thinking print on demand or nearly that. The first few I'd probably print myself - good ink on heavy acid free paper.

And I'm figuring on doing each set individually. My notes on 81 Topps are I think 5-6 pages hand written and would be a good deal longer printed and including pictures.

I sure don't consider it something that would work any other way than self published. I also don't see it being a money maker. If I make enough for a few packs of cards I'll consider it a success. Anything beyond that would be fantastic. (Yes, low but probably reasonable expectations- I know a few stamp guys who have done books and they all say anything beyond break even is a huge win)

I'm sort of hoping the technical section would maybe do 50-100 units and each set I got done maybe 10-20. A loseleaf general catalog with little detail isn't something I picture working. There's so much available - Beckett, standard catalog, The big three TPG registries (Great for checklists! ) And a lot of websites like sportscardradio etc.

I'd also thought of making it in electronic format. A bit more prone to being copied, but far easier to update. I'd have to do it in some electronic format anyway.

Steve B

[ALR-bishop]

Great idea Steve. I will subscribe. I have several printed lists from several sources but personally have quite a few variant cards not on any of them. Any easily updated format would be great. I am personally interested in any recurring variants , whether they are viewed by the hobby as variations or not.

[steve B]

Looks like I need to start typing.

Main section plus 81 Topps first. Others later and in no particular order.

Steve B