Featured Image Source: Shart.com
How to Frame a T-shirt
Whether you’re a collector of vintage t-shirts or a fan of your favorite sports team, preserving your memories in a frame is a great way to display them! Framing your t-shirts is surprisingly easy, as long as you have the right supplies.
With this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to mount a t-shirt in a frame to proudly show off your favorite tees. I’ll also share some of my personal tips to make sure you are able to get the best framed tee you can be proud of.
The process is simple, and you’ll be able to display your memories in no time. You’ll need a frame, a t-shirt, and other simple materials.
Read on to learn how to transform your t-shirts into cherished memories!
What You Need to Frame a T-Shirt
The supplies you need to frame a t-shirt may vary depending on the type of frame you choose, but the basics are pretty much the same. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Frame – You can choose any type of frame you like, from a traditional wooden frame to a modern metal frame.
- T-shirt – Your sports team, band t-shirt, or autographed tee.
- Mounting board – This is a stiff board that will provide a sturdy backing for your t-shirt.
- Glue or Double-sided tape – You’ll need a strong adhesive or double-sided tape to hold your t-shirt in place. I like a double-sided tape like “Hollywood tape” that actresses use to keep their necklines secure.
- Mat board – A mat board will give your frame a professional look and will help protect your t-shirt from dust and dirt.
- Foam board – This board will provide a buffer between your frame and your t-shirt.
Step-by-Step Guide to Mounting a Tee Shirt in a Frame
Once you have all the supplies you need, you’re ready to get started. Here’s a step-by-step guide to mounting your t-shirt in a frame:
Choose a frame. Select a frame in the size and style you like. Make sure the frame is large enough to accommodate your t-shirt.
Place your t-shirt on the mounting board. Put the t-shirt on the mounting board and position it as you want. Make sure it is centered and straight before you move on to the next step.
Secure the t-shirt to the board. Use glue or adhesive tape to adhere the t-shirt to the board. Make sure all sides are secured and that there are no gaps.
Position the mat board. Place the mat board on top of the t-shirt and line up the edges. This will give your frame a professional look.
Position the foam board. Place the foam board on top of the mat board. This will provide a buffer between the frame and your t-shirt.
Position the frame. Place the frame over the foam board and ensure it is centered and straight.
Secure the frame. Secure the frame to the foam board using the appropriate screws or nails. Make sure the frame is secure before you hang it up.
Tips for Selecting the Right Frame
When selecting a frame for your t-shirt, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are a few tips for selecting the right frame:
Size – Make sure the frame you choose is large enough to accommodate your t-shirt.
Style – Choose a frame that complements the style and design of your t-shirt. For example, if you are displaying a vintage band tee, a frame that matches the style; or if you are displaying a Super Bowl t-shirt or other sports collectible, choose a frame that will look great with the sports team colors.
Material – Choose a frame that is made of a durable material that won’t easily chip or crack.
Color – Choose a frame that is either neutral or that coordinates with the colors in your t-shirt. I like choosing a frame color that goes well with the colors of the shirt.
Budget – Set a budget and stick to it. There are frames to fit any budget, so it’s important to shop around.
Choosing the Best Materials for Mounting a T-Shirt
In order to ensure a professional-looking result, it’s important to choose the right materials for mounting your t-shirt. Here are some tips for selecting the best materials for mounting a t-shirt:
- Mounting board – Choose a mounting board that is stiff and sturdy. This will provide a solid base for your t-shirt and will help ensure a professional-looking result.
- Glue – Make sure to use a strong adhesive to secure your t-shirt to the mounting board.
- Mat board – Choose a mat board that complements the colors in your t-shirt. This will give your frame a professional look.
- Foam board – Choose a foam board that is thick enough to provide a buffer between your t-shirt and the frame.
Creative Ideas for Framing Your Tees
Once you’ve mastered the basics of framing a t-shirt, you can get creative with your designs. Here are a few creative ideas for framing your t-shirts:
- Group frames – Create a group of frames that feature different t-shirts. This is a great way to show off your collection.
- Collage frames – Create a collage of your t-shirts in a single frame. This is a great way to display multiple t-shirts in one frame.
- Shadow boxes – Create a shadow box with your t-shirts. You can add other mementos such as photos, ticket stubs, and other memorabilia.
- Wall art – Create a wall of art using your t-shirts. You can create a grid or a mosaic of your t-shirts for a truly unique look.
Tips for Caring for Your Framed T-Shirts
Once you’ve framed your t-shirts, it’s important to take proper care of them. Here are a few tips for caring for your framed t-shirts:
- Cleaning – Avoid using harsh chemicals on your framed t-shirts. Instead, use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe away dust and dirt.
- UV protection – If your framed t-shirt will be exposed to direct sunlight, make sure to use a UV-protective glass or Plexiglas. This will help protect your t-shirt from fading.
- Location – Choose a location for your framed t-shirt that is away from direct sunlight and humidity. This will help ensure that your t-shirt stays in good condition for years to come.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Framing a t-shirt can be a tricky process, so it’s important to be prepared for any issues that may arise. Here are a few troubleshooting tips for common issues:
- T-shirt is wrinkled – If your t-shirt is wrinkled, you can use an iron to gently press out the wrinkles.
- Glue is not sticking – If your glue is not sticking, you may need to use a stronger adhesive. (again, my favorite is a strong double-sided tape)
- Frame is crooked – If your frame is crooked, you can use shims to adjust the frame until it is straight.
- T-shirt is not centered – If your t-shirt is not centered, you can use a ruler to make sure it is straight before you glue it to the mounting board.
Best T-shirt Frames Online
We’ve scoured the web for the Best T-shirt Frames, and there are a few choices. Our top 3 are Shart.com, Umbra.com, and Michael’s. Our hands-down favorite is Shart.com. They have the best selection, prices, and customer support online.
Shart® , who has been in business since 2012, made the Shark Tank Video Submission Round on four occasions in 2013, 2016, 2019 and 2021
About Shart T-shirt Frames
The Original Shart® T-Shirt Frame is their best-selling shirt frame. This is a high-end retail frame made by the leading frames supplier to retailers throughout the U.S. & Canada, coupled with the patented Shart® foam insert.
It comes fully assembled with turn buttons, REAL glass sealed in place for safe shirt framing, and two saw-tooth hangers nailed into the back so you can mount your piece of Shart® either horizontally or vertically. Learn more about Shart® T-shirt frames here.
Original Shart® T-shirt Frame Product Info
- Highest Quality DIY T-Shirt Frame includes REAL GLASS
- Best Design, Easiest to Use
- Patented Foam Insert Protects, Preserves and Keeps Your Tees Safe
- Fully Assembled and Ready to Hang
- Viewable Space through Glass of 10.5” x 13.5″
- Outside Dimensions 15″ x 12” x 2 5/8″
- Inside Dimensions 11” x 14”
- Moulding width – 5/8″
- Frame Weight – 4 lbs.
- Dimensional Shipping Weight 10 lbs.
“And so our journey began in 2012 with one simple goal: To manufacture and sell the best designed, highest quality, easiest-to-use DIY t-shirt frame on planet Earth…and have fun doing it.
Two things have remained constant in the seven years we’ve been in business and that’s our commitment to customer service and the quality of our frames. Both our Original and Premium Frames are made the exact same way we’ve been making them since 2013 and the proof of their quality is in our product ratings and customer reviews.”
Todd Schleuning, Founder & CEO
Conclusion
Framing a t-shirt is a great way to display your favorite memories. With the right supplies and a few simple steps, you’ll be able to create a professional-looking display that you can proudly show off. So, gather your supplies and get ready to turn your football, sports, or vintage collectible t-shirt into a cherished memory!
Bryan E. Robinson is the former owner of TshirtGrowth. He has sold t-shirts since 2006 through dropshipping, screen printing, vinyl printing, DTG, Print on Demand, and more. Bryan has created his own t-shirt designs through Photoshop, Canva, and other platforms, as well as worked with freelancers to create many of his designs. Besides t-shirts, Bryan has over 18 years of experience in online marketing with eCommerce, B2B SaaS, B2C products, and more.
