Avid sports fans would spend a fortune to possess any item owned or represented by their idols. One of the most common things that they include in their prized collection is the jersey worn or signed by their sports hero. Some even believe that these items have ingrained luck, especially when worn during a winning game. Because of this, they would do anything to keep the integrity of the jersey intact. One of the first things that will come in mind when taking care of these collectible items is jersey framing. It helps maintain the value of the item even as time passes by. 

Before you ask your local framer to immortalise your idol’s winning jersey, here are several tricks that you need to follow to keep it in its prime condition. 

Pick The Right Frame 

If you intend to make the sports jersey a focal attraction in your house, you need to look for a frame that will make it stand out. One of your best options is the shadow box frame, a shallow, rectangular box with a glass front. It is perfect for displaying and taking care of bulky items since it has enough space in between the back and the glass to hold the item. If you want to consider it for jersey framing, ask your local framer to make you a frame that is at least 40 inches long and 32 inches wide. You also need to leave a 1-inch space between the frame and the jersey.  

Also, you can choose a frame that matches the colour of your idol’s jersey. For example, you can customise a black frame for Michael Jordan’s red Chicago Bulls jersey. It may also come in a shade that could complement the entire colour scheme of the room where you plan to display it. If the light passes through the area where you hang the jersey frame, you can ask your frame specialist to use a UV-protective glass in the shadow box. If you have an extra budget, you can also get a shadow box with museum-quality glass to preserve the value of the jersey. 

Wash the Jersey Carefully

While some hardcore fanatics want to keep the memory of their idols wearing their jerseys untouched, some would want to have it washed before framing. To help maintain the quality of your prized jersey collection, you need to exert extra efforts to avoid damaging the fabric. As much as possible, you need to wash the valuable jersey with other jerseys in the machine. It will make sure that it will fully submerge in the water for proper washing. If you have no other jerseys to wash, you can use towels to stop it from floating on top. 

You must also pick a neutral detergent when washing the jersey. Some commercial laundry detergents contain harmful chemicals that can harm the fabric. It is also best if you use warm water when cleaning the jersey. However, you must avoid going over 100 degrees Fahrenheit because too much heat can ruin the cloth. Finally, never put the priceless jersey in the dryer. It can shrink the garments and make temporary stains permanent.  

After cleaning your valuable jersey, you can finally send it to your framer to have it displayed. Instruct them how you want it placed in the frame so they can fold it properly and show the areas that you wish to exhibit. Then hang the framed jersey properly in an area where you can marvel at it all the time.