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Contrary to popular belief, you do not need to spend as much on the hanging display case as you did on the prized jersey you’d like to display. You can purchase a perfectly serviceable sports jersey frame display case on Amazon, but there are a couple of things to keep in mind before you do.
Look for frames, cases, or shadowboxes that are well-constructed from sturdy materials and come with hanging hardware included. Jerseys can be finicky to arrange neatly within a frame no matter what frame it is, but getting a frame designed specifically for clothing items and merch makes things a lot easier. Before you attempt to arrange your jersey, be sure to steam it to make sure it lays flat and smooth, and we’d recommend having an extra hand to help you position the jersey so it stays put on the glass.
Things to Consider When Buying a Jersey Frame or Display Case
The best jersey frames offer a little extra gap between the backing and glass, compared to say, a poster frame or photo frame. This allows the excess fabric of a jersey to still sit flat without looking overly compressed or bunched up. The best jersey cases should also protect your memorabilia, so look for things like a UV coating on the glass, and a locking latch to prevent theft. Here’s what else to look for:
Pins vs. Hanger: Most frames come with hanging mechanisms included, either with a hanger that attaches to the back of the frame or with pins that you can use to secure the jersey to the backing. Many include both.
UV Protection: Over time, exposure to sunlight can cause your jersey to fade, which is why it’s important that the glass or acrylic cover has some kind of coating that prevents UV rays from penetrating. Nothing will be 100 percent effective, especially over time, so we’d still advise you to keep your display out of the direct sunlight.
Padding: Display cases should include some kind of protective padding or backing, generally felt or velvet-like in texture, which keeps the jersey protected from damage.
Hardware:Ideally, display cases will come with hardware for hanging on the wall included, saving you at least one step.
