Custom Framing For T-Shirts: Where To Get It Done

There are several options available for framing a T-shirt. You can either buy a ready-made frame or create a DIY frame. For a DIY frame, you can purchase an acrylic box frame from Target, Michaels, or Amazon. For a ready-made frame, you can explore options from Shart, Frame USA, Umbra, and Eletecpro, which are available on Amazon. Etsy also offers a variety of T-shirt frames, including premium jersey frames made of solid wood.

DIY framing

If you're looking to frame a T-shirt, there are a few DIY methods you can try.

Firstly, you'll need to purchase a frame. You could opt for a shadow box frame, which is specifically designed for T-shirts, or a clear acrylic frame. These can be purchased from craft stores such as Michael's or Target, often for under $10.

Once you have your frame, you'll need to prepare the T-shirt. Use a lint roller to remove any lint or debris, and consider cleaning the T-shirt if there are any marks or stains.

Now, you're ready to assemble the frame. If using a shadow box frame, place the T-shirt inside the frame, face-side down, and then put the cardboard box that comes with the frame on top of the T-shirt. Fold the sides of the T-shirt into the box and secure it in place by cutting a piece of cardboard to fit snugly inside the frame.

For an acrylic frame, you'll need to cut the top off the cardboard insert that comes with the frame to allow space for the T-shirt. Place the T-shirt over the box insert, centering it carefully. Then, stuff the remaining fabric into the back of the frame and use tape to secure it in place.

Finally, you can hang your framed T-shirt on the wall and admire your handiwork!

Framing services

Framing a T-shirt is a great way to preserve your favourite T-shirts or those with sentimental value. It is also a unique way to decorate your space with your favourite designs. There are several framing options available, which can be done yourself or through a professional service.

DIY Framing

If you are looking for a more affordable option, you can frame your T-shirt yourself. You will need to purchase a suitable frame, such as a shadow box frame, an acrylic frame, or a display case. These can be found at various retailers, including Target, Michael's, and Amazon. The frame can then be assembled with the T-shirt, using cardboard or foam inserts to keep the shirt in place and prevent creases.

Professional Framing Services

For a more professional finish, you can use a T-shirt framing service. These services often use high-quality materials, such as real glass and solid wood, to create a long-lasting display. Some companies that offer T-shirt framing services include:

• Shart: Shart offers a DIY T-shirt framing kit with real glass and a patented foam insert that prevents the need to cut your T-shirt.
• Frametheshirt on Etsy: This seller provides a premium jersey frame made of solid wood with a photo window.
• KCRasan: KCRasan offers a large lockable jersey display frame with UV protection, available on Amazon.
• IHEIPYE: This company offers a lockable jersey shadow box with 98% UV protection acrylic, also available on Amazon.
• Frame USA: Frame USA has a "Frame-A-Tee" series with different sizes to accommodate small to XL shirts.

These services provide an easy way to display and preserve your T-shirts, with many options for customisation and different materials to suit your needs.

Online shops

If you are looking to get a T-shirt framed, there are several online shops that can help you.

Shart

Shart offers a DIY T-Shirt framing kit that comes fully assembled and includes real glass. The frame features a patented foam insert that prevents you from having to cut your shirt and will keep your memory safe and beautiful for years. The Shart Original T-Shirt Frame Display Case comes in packs of 2, 4, 5, or 10 and is available in black.

The Frame Room

The Frame Room in Baltimore, Maryland, offers custom framing services for jerseys and T-shirts. You can either visit their store in Baltimore or use their Virtual Framing Service.

Amazon

Amazon offers a wide variety of T-shirt frames, including ones made from wood, acrylic, or aluminium. Some frames are designed to display the entire T-shirt, while others are meant to display just a part of it. Many of the frames also come with UV protection to preserve the T-shirt's colour.

Etsy

Etsy is another great option for finding T-shirt frames. You can find simple and affordable frames, as well as more premium options made from solid wood. Some Etsy sellers also offer customisation services, allowing you to personalise your frame with photos or text.

Frame types

There are several frame types that can be used for T-shirt framing. The most common type is the shadow box frame, which is a deep box frame that allows for three-dimensional objects to be displayed. Shadow box frames typically have a glass front and come in various sizes to accommodate different T-shirt sizes. They can be made of wood or metal and often include a linen or cardboard backing. Some shadow box frames also offer UV protection to prevent T-shirts from fading.

Another option is an acrylic box frame, which is made entirely of clear acrylic or plastic. Acrylic box frames are often less expensive than shadow box frames and can be a good choice if you want an unobstructed view of the T-shirt. However, they may not offer the same level of protection as shadow box frames.

For a more unique and modern look, you can also opt for aluminium frames or wooden frames with a clear acrylic or plexiglass front. These frames usually have a hanger or hook for easy wall mounting. Some companies also offer custom framing services, allowing you to choose the frame material, colour, and size to best suit your T-shirt and personal style.

When choosing a frame, consider the size of the T-shirt, the level of protection offered, and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. Additionally, some frames come with special features such as locks, UV-protected glass, and mat or cardboard backing to enhance the display and preservation of your T-shirt.

Display options

There are a variety of options for framing a T-shirt, ranging from DIY methods to purchasing ready-made frames online.

DIY Methods

If you're feeling creative, you can try making your own T-shirt frame. This typically involves using an acrylic box frame or a shadow box frame, which can be found at craft stores like Michael's or Target for as little as $3.99. You will also need a cardboard insert to keep the T-shirt in place, which can be cut to size and fitted inside the frame along with the T-shirt. This method is simple, inexpensive, and allows you to display your T-shirt without cutting or altering it.

Online Retailers

If you prefer a ready-made solution, there are several online retailers that offer T-shirt framing options:

• Amazon: Offers a wide range of T-shirt frames, including lockable shadow box frames with UV protection, wooden frames, and acrylic display cases. Prices vary, but some options include free delivery.
• Etsy: Features a variety of T-shirt framing options, such as solid wood frames with photo windows, acrylic shadow boxes, and aluminium frames. Prices range from $5.66 to $156.75, with some sellers offering personalised options.
• Shart: Specialises in T-shirt frames, offering a high-quality DIY framing system that includes real glass and a patented foam insert to protect and preserve your T-shirt. Their frames come fully assembled and can be hung horizontally or vertically. Prices start at $98.73 for a 2-pack.

With these options, you can easily find a display solution that suits your budget and style preferences to showcase your favourite T-shirts.

Frequently asked questions