Whether you're collecting sports memorabilia for fun or hoping to make some money from your collection, it's important to display your items and maintain their value. There are many different ways to display your sports memorabilia, including frames and boxes to show off. If you have a replica sports jersey, use a protective frame to showcase the garment, framing your jersey at home is fairly easy, and will save you a lot of money compared to going to a professional framer. Read on in Step One for directions on framing your own jersey.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Preparing to Frame
Step 1. Choose the right frame
To showcase a sports jersey, use a protective frame, which is the shallow, framed rectangular box that is commonly used. The protective frame has a windshield which is ideal for displaying and protecting large items, as it provides more space between the back and the glass than traditional frames. The inside of the frame will require at least 1 inch (25.4 mm) of space between it and your jersey. Jersey size frames are typically 40 inches by 32 inches.
- Choose a frame that is stained or painted in a color that matches your jersey, and the decor in your home.
- Choose a protective frame with UV protective glass.
- There are some frames made specifically for jerseys, but they tend to be very expensive. A protective frame with the right dimensions will likely cost much less than a custom made jersey frame.
Step 2. Select a supporter
Unlike a regular painting frame, the support that is on your protective frame may not be exactly what you need for your project. For jerseys, you'll usually need a foam backing to provide support (this may come from the frame), and acid-free archival backing paper for the top. You may or may not choose to use webbing around the ends for extra effect.
- Many framers choose to use dry pads to prepare supports for the frame. This attaches the filing paper to the backboard securely.
- The backing paper should be a neutral color that supports your jersey.
Step 3. Get the rest of your gear
To complete your project, you will also need a measuring tape, a utility knife, a sewing needle (embroidery needles work best), clear thread (such as fishing line), and whatever cushioning material you choose to use (specifically on the type of backing you want). use). You'll likely also want an iron, so you can prepare your jersey for framing and help the folds lay flat within the frame.
Part 2 of 2: Padding Your Jersey
Step 1. Prepare your supporters
Cut your foam or backing board to shape, using a utility knife. The board must be the same size as your frame. Then, lay your padding paper on top. If providing support dry pads, you must do so now.
Step 2. Cut your backing foam insert
If you have enough room in the protective frame, it's a great addition to include a sheet of foam inside the jersey, inside the frame. This will provide support and help your jersey look a little fuller than if you lay it flat on the board. Cut your foam board into a rectangle the size of the torso of the jersey, and tuck it in. You can sew the back of the jersey to the board to help keep it in place, or just use a few safety pins.
Step 3. Fold your jersey
While there are several different ways to fold your jersey, they are all folded so that the main logo and symbols are visible within the frame. Lay your jersey on the table, and fold the sleeves so they are pointing downwards. Use the iron to keep the jersey in place, to prepare it for life in the frame.
Step 4. Sew your jersey in place
Thread your needle with your clear thread, and start sewing by hand around the edges of the jersey. Sew around the neckline, on the hem, and the sides and sleeves of the jersey. If possible, sew through the back of the fabric rather than the front, so that the seam is not visible. You sew the jersey to the backing, so the jersey doesn't move within the frame.
Step 5. Place the jersey inside the frame
Once the jersey is securely attached to the backing and styled to your liking, you're ready to place it in the frame. Carefully push the supports in, being careful not to move the jersey as you do so. Make sure the jersey doesn't touch the glass, as over time condensation will build up and cause the jersey to become moldy. Close the back of the frame, and you're done!
Tips
- If you don't want to sew your jersey to the baseboard, use stainless steel pins for the frame.
- Display the signature on your jersey with the signature facing the outside of the frame.
- The best place to sew the jersey to the baseboard is at the bottom of the jersey, just below the neckline and at the beginning of each sleeve.
- When handling glass or plexiglass, hold it by the side to prevent unnecessary stains on the protective frame.
Warning
- Use small needles when sewing your jersey as large needles can damage your garment.
- Don't cut your baseboard too much before placing it inside your jersey. Your jersey should be pulled taut with the baseboard inside.
- If you need to sew the front of the jersey to the baseboard, make sure your thread is the same color as the jersey.
