Ashley Bates

Designing your own dragon shield for cosplay or LARP (Live Action Role Play) can be an exciting and rewarding project. Whether you’re attending a fantasy-themed event or participating in a medieval reenactment, a custom-designed dragon shield can be the perfect accessory to enhance your character and make a statement. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create your very own dragon shield that will leave others in awe.

Step 1: Plan Your Design

Before you start crafting your dragon shield, it’s essential to have a clear design in mind. A dragon shield should reflect both the mythical creature and your personal character style. Here are a few things to consider:

Style: Decide on the type of dragon you want to feature. Do you want a fierce, fire-breathing dragon, or a more majestic and calm design? Think about the dragon’s posture, whether it’s wrapped around the shield or flying across the surface.

Colors: Dragons often represent powerful themes, so bold colors like red, gold, black, or metallics are popular choices. However, you can customize the colors to suit your character’s backstory. A dragon shield in shades of blue or green could symbolize wisdom or nature.

Details: Do you want your dragon to have scales, horns, claws, or wings? The more details you add, the more impressive your dragon shield will look.

Step 2: Choose the Right Materials

Selecting the appropriate materials is vital to ensure your dragon shield is both durable and lightweight for cosplay or LARPing. Here are some commonly used materials for creating a dragon shield:

Foam: High-density foam is an excellent option for LARP weapons and shields because it is light, easy to work with, and safe to use. You can layer foam sheets to create depth and texture for your dragon design.

Wood: If you prefer a more traditional look, consider using wood as the base for your shield. Wooden shields can be heavy, but they offer a realistic appearance and solid structure.

Plastic: Lightweight and easy to mold, plastic is another material to consider. You can use thick plastic sheets or even recycled plastic containers to craft your shield.

Step 3: Create the Shield Base

Once you’ve chosen your materials, it’s time to create the shield’s base. Here’s a simple guide for creating a basic shield shape:

Cut Out the Shape: Use a saw or foam cutter to cut out the desired shape for your shield. Typically, dragon shields are round or kite-shaped, but feel free to experiment with more unique designs.

Smooth the Edges: After cutting, sand down the edges to remove rough spots and ensure that the surface is smooth and safe to handle.

Add a Handle: Use straps or a wooden dowel to create a handle on the back of the shield. This will allow you to carry the shield comfortably during your cosplay or LARP event.

Step 4: Design the Dragon Image

Now comes the fun part—bringing your dragon shield to life! Depending on the materials you’re using, there are a few different ways to design and apply the dragon image:

For Foam: You can carve or heat-form foam to create the raised shape of a dragon. Use sculpting tools to create scales, wings, and other textures. Once you have the dragon’s shape, paint it with acrylics or airbrush paints for a detailed, vibrant finish.

For Wood or Plastic: If you’re working with wood or plastic, you can use a stencil or freehand your dragon design with a marker. Once the design is in place, you can carve it into the shield or use paints and adhesives to add texture.

For intricate dragon designs, you might also want to use additional materials like dragon figurines, beads, or gems to embellish your shield. Adding details like glowing eyes or metallic dragon claws will give it that extra magical touch.

Step 5: Paint and Detail

Painting your dragon shield is where you can get creative. Use metallic paints to give the dragon’s scales a shiny, scale-like appearance, or use contrasting colors for the dragon’s wings and body. Don’t forget to add highlights and shadows to give your design depth and realism.

Dry brushing is a technique where you lightly brush a small amount of paint over the raised surfaces, giving a worn or aged look to your dragon shield.

Weathering: For a battle-worn look, you can apply a dark wash or black paint to add dirt and grime to the shield’s surface.

Step 6: Final Touches

Once the paint has dried, add any final details, such as dragon symbols, additional texture, or protective sealants to ensure the shield lasts throughout your cosplay or LARPing adventure.

Step 7: Enjoy Your Dragon Shield!

Now that your dragon shield is complete, it’s time to show it off! Whether you’re attending a convention or engaging in a LARP battle, your dragon shield will surely be a standout piece in your costume.

Pokémon cards have long been a beloved hobby for fans of the franchise, and in recent years, they have transformed into a profitable investment for collectors. The Pokémon card market has witnessed a boom, with certain sets commanding significant value due to rarity, nostalgia, and demand. Whether you're an avid collector or looking to invest in Pokémon cards for the long term, it's essential to know which sets to focus on. In this blog, we'll explore some of the best Pokémon sets to invest in right now, with a special mention of the role Pokémon card shops play in this market.

1. Base Set (1999) There’s no denying the allure of the Base Set cards, especially for long-time fans who grew up with the series. Released in 1999, the Base Set introduced iconic cards like Charizard, Blastoise, and Venusaur. These cards remain the holy grail for many collectors and investors. The value of a graded first edition Charizard card, in particular, has skyrocketed over the years, sometimes selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Investing in a well-preserved Base Set booster box or packs could be a smart move. While prices have already risen considerably, the rarity and historical significance of these cards make them an excellent long-term investment. Always keep an eye on Pokémon card shops, as they may have old stock that hasn’t been opened, potentially hiding valuable cards.

2. Neo Genesis (2000) The Neo Genesis set, released in 2000, is another gem for collectors and investors. This set introduced second-generation Pokémon like Totodile, Chikorita, and Cyndaquil. The most coveted card in this set is the 1st Edition Lugia, a card that has seen significant appreciation in recent years. A graded PSA 10 Lugia from Neo Genesis has sold for substantial amounts at auctions.

Neo Genesis is not only highly sought after for its iconic cards but also for its position as a transitional set in the Pokémon TCG (Trading Card Game). As a result, investing in this set, particularly in sealed booster boxes or packs, could yield impressive returns over time. Check with reputable Pokémon card shops for this set, as they may offer a variety of unopened products that could prove valuable.

3. Shining Legends (2017) Released in 2017, Shining Legends features a variety of special cards, including the highly sought-after Shining Mew. The Shining Mew card, with its unique holographic design, has become a fan favorite and is one of the most expensive cards from the set. While this set is relatively new compared to older sets like Base Set and Neo Genesis, it’s gaining momentum in the market.

With Pokémon’s growing popularity and the continued interest in shiny cards, Shining Legends could be a smart choice for investors. It’s one of those sets that might not have peaked yet, meaning its value could increase over time as demand grows. Many Pokémon card shops are still selling this set, making it an accessible investment for those looking to dive into the market.

4. Hidden Fates (2019) Hidden Fates, a special set released in 2019, quickly became a fan favorite due to its stunning artwork and shiny cards, particularly the Shiny Charizard GX. The Shiny Charizard GX card has seen impressive price increases since its release, and it remains one of the most coveted cards in modern sets.

This set offers a great combination of high-end chase cards and overall desirability, making it a solid investment choice for Pokémon card enthusiasts. As a modern set with a high demand for certain cards, Hidden Fates is an excellent option for those looking for quicker returns. Always keep an eye on Pokémon card shops, as you may find sealed products or individual cards that are rising in value.

5. Evolutions (2016) Released in 2016, Evolutions is a nostalgic set that celebrated the 20th anniversary of Pokémon. Featuring reprints of iconic cards from the Base Set, such as the Charizard EX, Evolutions became a hit among both new collectors and long-time fans. The set’s value has steadily risen as demand for nostalgic products continues to grow.

Although it’s not as rare as some of the older sets, Evolutions provides a great entry point for newer collectors and investors looking to capitalize on nostalgia. As prices for cards like Charizard EX rise, Evolutions has proven to be a solid investment for those looking to diversify their portfolios. Look for sealed booster boxes and packs at Pokémon card shops that may offer these products at competitive prices.

Conclusion

The UK Pokémon TCG scene is always evolving, with competitive players constantly looking for the best decks to dominate tournaments. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, knowing which cards are currently shaping the meta can give you an edge. Here’s a look at the top 10 most competitive Pokémon cards in the UK players should watch out for in 2025.

1. Mew VMAX

Mew VMAX continues to be a dominant force in the meta due to its Cross Fusion Strike ability, allowing it to copy powerful attacks from the bench. Paired with Genesect V for draw power, this deck remains a top contender in the UK scene.

2. Lugia VSTAR

Lugia VSTAR has reshaped the meta thanks to its Summoning Star ability, which allows players to bring back powerful Colorless-type attackers like Archeops. This versatility makes it a staple in competitive play.

3. Giratina VSTAR

Giratina VSTAR’s Lost Impact attack and Star Requiem VSTAR power make it one of the best finishers in the game. Its synergy with the Lost Zone engine has cemented its place in the meta.

4. Arceus VSTAR

Arceus VSTAR remains a key card thanks to Trinity Nova, accelerating energy to powerful attackers while maintaining consistent damage output. Its VSTAR power, Starbirth, allows for incredible deck consistency.

5. Miraidon ex

Miraidon ex decks have surged in popularity due to their ability to set up quickly. With Tandem Unit, you can search for two Basic Electric Pokémon, ensuring early-game dominance. Combined with Regieleki VMAX, it can hit for massive damage.

6. Palkia VSTAR

Palkia VSTAR has remained relevant due to its high-damage Subspace Swell attack, which punishes opponents for filling their bench. It pairs well with Origin Forme Dialga and Inteleon engines.

7. Charizard ex

Charizard ex’s Infernal Reign ability allows for quick energy acceleration, making it a formidable Fire-type attacker. Its raw power has made it a favorite among UK players in recent tournaments.

8. Iron Hands ex

As a new addition to the meta, Iron Hands ex provides an effective way to take additional prize cards, disrupting the opponent’s strategy. Paired with Electric-based decks, it has proven to be a game-changer.

9. Roaring Moon ex

Roaring Moon ex decks have gained popularity for their ability to hit hard while utilizing Dark-type energy acceleration. Its potential to take early knockouts makes it a solid choice in the meta.

10. Sableye (Lost Zone Engine)

Sableye remains a staple for Lost Zone decks due to its ability to spread damage effectively with Lost Mine. When paired with Comfey and Colress’s Experiment, it offers both board control and strategic depth.

Conclusion

Pokémon cards have been a beloved collectible since their debut in the late 1990s. Whether you’re a nostalgic fan, an investor, or just getting started, collecting Pokémon cards in the UK can be both an exciting and rewarding hobby. With thousands of cards available, special editions, and valuable finds, navigating the world of Pokémon cards can feel overwhelming for beginners. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know to kick-start your collection.

Understanding the Basics of Pokémon Cards

Pokémon cards are part of the official Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG), consisting of various card types:

Common Cards – These are the most frequently found cards and have a black circle at the bottom right.

Uncommon Cards – Marked with a black diamond, these are slightly harder to find.

Rare Cards – Indicated by a black star, rare cards can be holographic, full-art, or special editions.

Promo Cards – Often released during special events or promotional campaigns.

Secret Rare Cards – Highly sought-after and numbered beyond the set count, often featuring alternate artwork or shiny effects.

Understanding these categories helps in recognizing valuable cards and building a solid collection.

Where to Buy Pokémon Cards in the UK

There are multiple avenues to buy Pokémon cards in the UK, both online and in physical stores. Here are some of the best options:

Local Game Stores – Stores like Forbidden Planet, GAME, and independent card shops often carry booster packs, individual cards, and exclusive sets.

Online Retailers – Websites like eBay, Amazon, and specialist retailers such as Chaos Cards and Total Cards are great for purchasing sealed packs and singles.

Pokémon Centre UK – The official Pokémon store often stocks exclusive items, rare cards, and collector’s sets.

Car Boot Sales and Charity Shops – Occasionally, you might find hidden gems at a bargain price.

Trading and Online Communities – Facebook groups, Reddit threads, and dedicated forums allow collectors to buy, sell, and trade cards securely.

How to Identify Valuable Pokémon Cards

If you’re looking to collect valuable Pokémon cards in the UK, pay attention to these factors:

Rarity – The rarer the card, the more valuable it tends to be.

Condition – Mint or near-mint cards fetch higher prices. Consider grading your cards through PSA or Beckett for authentication.

Edition – First Edition and vintage sets (such as Base Set, Jungle, or Fossil) hold significant value.

Special Features – Holographic, full-art, rainbow rare, or misprinted cards are often worth more.

Popular Pokémon – Cards featuring Charizard, Pikachu, Mewtwo, and legendary Pokémon generally retain high demand.

Protecting and Storing Your Pokémon Cards

To maintain the value and longevity of your collection, proper storage is crucial. Here’s how you can protect your cards:

Sleeves and Toploaders – Use protective sleeves and hard cases to prevent damage.

Binders and Storage Boxes – Organise your collection neatly with dedicated card binders and storage boxes.

Keep Away from Moisture and Sunlight – Store your collection in a dry place to avoid fading or warping.

Insurance and Inventory – If you have a valuable collection, consider insuring it and keeping an inventory for record-keeping.

The Joy of Trading and Expanding Your Collection

One of the most exciting aspects of collecting Pokémon cards is trading with fellow collectors. Attending local meetups, TCG events, and comic conventions in the UK can help you find rare cards and meet like-minded enthusiasts.

Online trading communities are also a great way to safely expand your collection. Just ensure you verify trades and use trusted platforms to avoid scams.

Conclusion

For collectors of Dragon Ball booster boxes and cards, maintaining the value and condition of these treasures is crucial. Whether you’re an avid fan or an investor, protecting your collection is a top priority. With the increasing demand for Dragon Ball cards, keeping your booster boxes and individual cards in top shape ensures they retain their value for years to come. Here’s how you can properly store and protect your Dragon Ball booster boxes and cards.

1. Invest in Proper Storage Containers

The first step in protecting your Dragon Ball booster boxes and cards is to invest in proper storage containers. For booster boxes, opt for durable, acid-free, and moisture-resistant plastic containers. These containers should be large enough to fit the booster box comfortably without squeezing it. Never store booster boxes loosely in a space where they can get crushed or bent. Sealed plastic containers will provide a barrier against dust, dirt, and harmful UV rays that can degrade the artwork on the boxes.

When it comes to individual cards, specialized card storage boxes are a must. Look for boxes that are designed specifically for trading cards, such as those with dividers and secure closures. These boxes should also be acid-free to prevent any damage from materials like cardboard or paper that can leach acids over time.

2. Use Sleeves and Toploaders for Individual Cards

Storing Dragon Ball cards in protective sleeves is an absolute necessity. Sleeves help prevent scratches, creases, and other physical damage to your cards. For extra protection, consider using rigid toploaders, which are hard plastic holders that ensure your cards remain straight and unbent. If you’re serious about your collection, opt for penny sleeves (thin, soft plastic) first and then slide the sleeved cards into toploaders. This two-layer protection prevents any bending or warping of the cards, keeping them in pristine condition.

3. Store in a Cool, Dry Place

Temperature and humidity play a major role in the preservation of your Dragon Ball booster boxes and cards. Ideally, you should store your collection in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or humidity. Heat can warp your cards and boxes, while humidity can lead to mold growth, which can ruin both the cards and their protective sleeves. A climate-controlled room or a storage facility with a consistent temperature is your best bet.

Avoid storing your collection in basements or attics, as these areas can fluctuate in temperature and humidity. A closet or a dedicated shelf in a room with stable conditions will be ideal.

4. Use UV-Protective Sleeves for Booster Boxes

Just as you use protective sleeves for individual cards, consider using UV-protective sleeves for your Dragon Ball booster boxes. These specially designed bags block out harmful UV rays that can cause the artwork on your booster boxes to fade over time. These UV sleeves are usually made from clear, high-quality plastic that provides both a physical and UV shield for your precious boxes.

If you plan to display your Dragon Ball booster boxes, place them in a well-ventilated area and ensure that they are shielded from direct sunlight. For further protection, consider placing the boxes on a shelf that has some height to avoid the possibility of accidental spills or damage.

5. Handle with Care

Every time you interact with your cards or booster boxes, it’s essential to handle them with care. When touching your Dragon Ball cards, always use the edges to minimize direct contact with the face of the card. Wearing cotton gloves can reduce the risk of transferring oils, dirt, or fingerprints onto the cards. Additionally, make sure your hands are clean and dry before handling your collection.

Similarly, when handling Dragon Ball booster boxes, avoid pressing down too hard or squeezing them. The box should remain in its original shape, as any deformation can affect its value.

6. Organize and Catalog Your Collection

Keeping track of your Dragon Ball cards and booster boxes is essential for both organization and valuation purposes. Consider cataloging each card’s condition, rarity, and any special features, such as holofoil or misprints. There are various apps and websites available that help collectors track their collections. Not only does this allow you to stay organized, but it can also help you monitor the value of your collection over time.

Conclusion

Card games have long been a staple in the world of entertainment, but few have garnered the worldwide attention and love that Cardfight!! Vanguard has achieved. Originally launched in 2011 by Bushiroad, Cardfight!! Vanguard isn’t just another collectible card game. It’s a multifaceted experience that blends strategic gameplay, rich lore, a passionate community, and even an anime series that helps bring the world to life. For both newcomers and veteran players, Cardfight!! Vanguard has proved time and again that it’s much more than a simple card game.

A Rich and Expansive Universe At its core, Cardfight!! Vanguard offers more than just cards to collect and battle with. The game’s expansive world-building and lore set it apart from other card games. The game’s setting revolves around the planet Cray, a mystical world filled with various factions, creatures, and characters, each with their unique backstory. This rich tapestry of lore is a huge draw for players who enjoy the deeper narrative elements of their favorite games.

The different clans in Cardfight!! Vanguard — such as Royal Paladin, Oracle Think Tank, and Shadows Paladin — are more than just card categories. Each clan represents its own distinctive storyline and values. As players build their decks around these clans, they not only engage in strategic battles but also become part of the ongoing saga of Cray. This integration of storytelling with gameplay creates a bond between the player and the cards, making the game feel alive and meaningful.

The Competitive Spirit Another reason Cardfight!! Vanguard is more than just a card game is its competitive nature. While casual play is certainly part of the experience, the game’s true heart lies in its tournaments, events, and the drive to build a stronger deck. Competitive players engage in strategic battles that test their knowledge of the game, deck-building skills, and decision-making ability.

The game’s design encourages creativity in deck-building. With a range of clans and card effects to choose from, no two decks are alike. Players often spend hours crafting their ideal decks, studying strategies, and perfecting their skills to outperform their opponents. For those who crave a challenge, Cardfight!! Vanguard offers the opportunity to grow as a player and compete on a global stage, with tournaments held regularly at various levels — from local meetups to international championships.

The Anime Connection One of the most unique aspects of Cardfight!! Vanguard is the way it ties in with the anime series. The anime, which started airing in 2011 alongside the game’s launch, plays a pivotal role in introducing new players to Cardfight!! Vanguard universe. The series follows protagonists who engage in card fights while navigating the complexities of their personal lives. It seamlessly blends action, strategy, and drama, much like the card game itself.

The anime has also helped promote the game globally, fostering a larger community. Fans of the anime become inspired to play the game, collect the cards, and engage with the universe in a deeper way. Cardfight!! Vanguard has been successful in creating a cross-platform experience where fans can immerse themselves not only in the game but in the fictional world it portrays.

A Thriving Community Cardfight!! Vanguard is more than just a game — it’s a thriving global community. From local card shops to online forums and social media groups, there are countless spaces for players to come together, share strategies, and discuss their favorite aspects of the game. This sense of belonging is central to the Cardfight!! Vanguard experience.

Players often form friendships and create lasting bonds over their shared love for the game. Whether it’s through casual matchups or intense tournaments, the relationships that form around Cardfight!! Vanguard makes it much more than just a game played in isolation. It’s about connecting with others, learning, and growing together.

Conclusion

Pokémon booster boxes have become highly coveted items within the world of collecting and trading. Over time, these boxes have appreciated significantly in value, attracting both collectors and investors alike.In this summary, we’ll explore the key reasons why Pokémon booster boxes continue to rise in value.

Limited Print Runs and Rarity

One of the main reasons Pokémon booster boxes are appreciated is their limited print runs. When a new set is released, Pokémon Company International produces a fixed number of booster boxes. 

Once these boxes are sold out, no more are made, making them rare and harder to find. Limited print runs create a sense of scarcity, and scarcity often drives up demand, which in turn leads to higher prices in the secondary market. For collectors and investors, this rarity is a key factor in the value appreciation of these boxes.

Nostalgia and the Pokémon Legacy

The nostalgic value associated with Pokémon booster boxes is another major driving force behind their rising prices. For many, Pokémon is more than just a card game; it’s a beloved franchise that holds a special place in their hearts. Many collectors grew up with Pokémon and are eager to relive their childhood memories by acquiring rare cards and sets.  As the years go by, the sentimental value of these booster boxes grows, further fueling their desirability. Nostalgia plays a crucial role in the appreciation of older and vintage sets, which are often seen as treasured relics of a past era in the Pokémon universe.

Iconic Cards and Special Editions

Certain Pokémon sets are more desirable due to the inclusion of iconic and powerful cards. For example, sets featuring sought-after cards such as the 1st Edition Charizard or other fan-favorite Pokémon tend to command higher prices. When these boxes are still sealed, they hold the possibility of containing these valuable cards, which adds to their appeal. 

Increased Popularity of Pokémon TCG and Competitive Play

The Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) has experienced a resurgence in popularity, especially in the competitive scene. With more tournaments, events, and an ever-expanding player base, the demand for booster boxes continues to grow. Competitive players are constantly on the lookout for valuable cards to improve their decks, while collectors seek out rare and limited-edition cards to complete their collections. 

Market Trends and Speculation

Another factor contributing to the increase in the value of Pokémon booster boxes is market speculation. With the rise of social media and online trading platforms, collectors and investors can more easily track the prices and trends of Pokémon cards and booster boxes.  Many investors view sealed boxes as valuable assets that could be appreciated over time. As a result, the market for Pokémon cards has become more speculative, with people buying sealed booster boxes as an investment, hoping to sell them at a higher price in the future.

Conclusion: