Helena Frye
Framing a basketball jersey is a great way to display your cherished sports memorabilia. It is also a cheap and fun DIY project that can be done at home. The first step is to decide on the frame or shadow box. A shadow box frame is recommended for displaying jerseys as it provides more space between the object and the glass, preserving the fabric and any signatures. Next, you will need to measure your jersey and cut your foam or backing board to shape. After preparing your jersey for framing by ironing out any wrinkles, you can lay it out on the backing board and fold it, ensuring that the number, player name, and sleeve patch logos are visible. You can then pin the fabric in the desired position and sew it in place. Finally, you can place the jersey inside the frame and seal it shut.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Frame type | Shadow box frames are recommended for jerseys as they provide more space between the object and the glass. Standard frames may not be able to accommodate the thickness of a jersey. |
| Frame size | Most jerseys are either 30" by 36" or 32" by 40". |
| Backing | Foam backing is typically used to provide support for the jersey. Acid-free archival backing paper is placed over the foam. |
| Mounting | Dry mounting is often used to attach the archival paper to the backboard. |
| Folding | The jersey should be folded so that the number, player name, and sleeve patch logos are visible. |
| Sewing | Clear thread is used to sew the jersey to the backing, ensuring it doesn't move inside the frame. |
| Cleaning | The jersey and background should be cleaned of any debris or lint before framing. |
| Sealing | The frame can be sealed with masking tape to secure the tabs and prevent scratching on the wall. |
| Display | The jersey should be centred with space at the top and bottom for matting. The hanging hardware should be at the top. |
| Cost | Shadow box frames can be purchased for around $60-$70. Custom framing services range from $99 to $285. |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right frame
Framing a basketball jersey is a great way to showcase your favourite player or team, and it doesn't have to cost a fortune. When choosing the right frame, there are a few key things to consider. Firstly, it is recommended to use a shadow box frame for jerseys. Shadow boxes have a glass front and provide more space between the object and the glass, which is essential for preserving the fabric of the jersey and any signatures it may have. They are also cheaper than frames made specifically for jerseys.
When selecting a shadow box, ensure it has the right dimensions to fit your jersey. Most basketball jerseys are either 30" by 36" or 32" by 40", so choose a shadow box with these dimensions or slightly larger to accommodate the bulk of the jersey. It is also important to consider the orientation of the frame. Basketball jerseys are typically long and sleeveless, so a vertical orientation layout is usually recommended.
The backing of the shadow box is another important factor. Choose a shadow box with a foam backing for support, and an acid-free archival backing paper to go over it. The backing paper should be a neutral colour that complements your jersey. If you want to add extra protection, you can use dry mounting to attach the archival paper securely to the backboard.
Finally, consider the matting of the frame. The matting is the coloured board that goes around the edge of the frame, and it can add a nice touch to the overall display. Select a top matting colour that is similar to the jersey's colour, and a bottom or trim colour that complements one of the jersey's accent colours. If you plan to add any engravings or photos, make sure they fit well with the matting layout. With these considerations in mind, you can choose the right frame to showcase your basketball jersey proudly and affordably.
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Preparing the jersey
Cleaning and Ironing:
Start by giving your jersey a final cleaning to remove any lingering debris, lint, or wrinkles. You can use a clothing iron or a steamer to ensure the jersey is smooth and wrinkle-free. This step is crucial in achieving a neat and professional-looking display.
Folding and Layout:
Lay the jersey flat on a table, with the sleeves folded over, going downwards. Ensure that any important details, such as the number and player name, are visible and centred within the frame. If you're using a shadow box, place the jersey on the mat board, and if you're using a standard frame, use the foam backing board. You can also use a foam insert to make the jersey look more filled out, cutting it to fit snugly in the torso of the jersey, leaving room for the arms.
Sewing and Securing:
Use a sewing needle and clear thread to sew the jersey in place. Sew around the neckline, hem, sides, and sleeves of the jersey, attaching it to the backing board or mat board. This will ensure that the jersey does not move inside the frame. You can also use fabric pins to secure the folds and hold them in place.
Framing Layout:
Before placing the jersey inside the frame, test its placement with the custom matting. Centre the jersey, leaving about two inches of space at the top and bottom for the matting. Any extra fabric at the bottom can be folded and tucked under. If you're using a standard frame, ensure the plexiglass is aligned and free of protective film on one side before placing the jersey inside.
Final Adjustments:
Once the jersey is secured and arranged to your liking, it's time to place it inside the frame. If using a shadow box, close the box securely. If using a standard frame, remove the protective film from the other side of the plexiglass and frame it. You can use tape to secure the ends of the thread and ensure they don't come undone.
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Using foam backing
To frame a basketball jersey cheaply using foam backing, you will need a shadow box frame, acid-free mat board, fabric pins, a ruler or measuring tape, and a foam backing board. You can purchase a standard frame, but a shadow box frame is recommended as it provides more space between the object and the glass.
Before you begin framing, lay out your jersey on the background and test its placement. Centre your jersey, leaving about two inches of space at the top and bottom for the matting. Any extra fabric at the bottom of the jersey can be folded and tucked under. If you are using a foam insert, make sure it is cut in a rectangular shape that fits snugly in the torso of the jersey, leaving room to fold the arms. After making sure the jersey looks exactly how you want it to be displayed, pin the fabric in the desired position.
Next, iron the folds you made on the jersey to make sure it stays in place. After you’ve ironed the folds, take the pins and pin the jersey to the backing of the foam backing board. It is recommended that you use stainless steel framing pins, as they do not rust and will not damage your jersey. Take a needle and thread and stitch the jersey to the backing board below the neckline, at the start of each sleeve, and on the bottom hem of the jersey. Make sure the stitching goes through the back of the jersey so that the stitched lines are not visible.
If you are using a shadow box, simply close the box securely and then hang it on your wall. If you are using a standard frame, there are a few more steps. The plexiglass will come with protective film on each side of the glass. Remove the film from one side and lay that side down on top of the jersey, making sure it is straight. Once you are sure it is straight, remove the film from the other side of the plexiglass and frame.
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Folding and pinning the jersey
When preparing to frame a basketball jersey, it is important to fold and pin it in a way that ensures the major logos and symbols are visible inside the frame. To do this, lay your jersey flat on a table, and fold the sleeves over so that they point downwards. Use an iron to keep the jersey in this position, preparing it for its life in a frame.
You can also choose to sew your jersey in place. To do this, thread your needle with clear thread and begin hand-sewing around the edge of the jersey. Sew around the neckline, at 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 thread is hidden. Sewing the jersey to the backing will ensure that it does not move inside the frame.
If you are using a foam insert, make sure it is cut in a rectangular shape that fits snugly in the torso of the jersey, leaving room to fold the arms. After making sure the jersey looks exactly how you want it to be displayed, pin the fabric in the desired position. Next, iron on the folds you made on the jersey to make sure it stays in place. After you’ve ironed the folds of the jersey, take those same pins and pin the jersey to the backing of either the mat board or foam backing board.
Finally, if you are using a standard frame, there are a few extra steps. The plexiglass will come with protective film on each side of the glass. Remove the film from one side and lay that side down on top of the jersey, making sure it’s perfectly straight before moving on. Once you’re sure it’s straight, it’s safe to remove the film from the other side of the plexiglass and frame.
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Sealing the frame
The first step in sealing the frame is to position the frame over the backboard. Swivel in the tabs at the back and use a screwdriver to tighten them. This will secure the frame in place.
To prevent the tabs from moving and potentially scratching the wall when the frame is hung up, seal off the back of the frame with masking tape. This will ensure that your frame is securely attached to the wall and will not cause any damage.
If you are using a shadow box frame, simply close the box securely and then hang it on the wall. Shadow box frames are ideal for displaying bulky items like jerseys as they provide more space between the object and the glass. They are also more affordable than custom frames made specifically for jerseys.
With these simple steps, your framed basketball jersey is ready to be displayed and admired!
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Frequently asked questions
You can frame your basketball jersey cheaply by purchasing a shadow box frame and framing it yourself. Shadow box frames are deep enough to accommodate the bulk of the jersey and allow it to sit away from the glass, which is essential for preserving the fabric. They typically cost around $70 on the lower end.
You will need a shadow box frame, acid-free mat board, fabric pins, a ruler or measuring tape, and a clothing iron.
First, lay your jersey flat and fold the sleeves over so that they go downwards. Use an iron to keep the jersey in this position. Then, sew your jersey in place using a clear thread so that the thread is hidden.
When selecting a shadow box frame, consider the size of your jersey. Most jerseys are either 30” by 36” or 32” by 40”. Bring your jersey with you while shopping for your frame so you can lay it out and ensure it is the right fit.
Lay the jersey on the mat board and fold the jersey, making sure the number, player name, and sleeve patch logos are visible. Pin the fabric in the desired position and iron on the folds. Then, pin the jersey to the backing of the mat board. Finally, close the shadow box and hang it on your wall.
