Comic book framing is an excellent way to show off your interest in these beloved illustrations. Framing your comic books allows you to preserve their condition, showcase their artistry, and add a personal touch to your home decor. Not sure where to start? No stress! We will guide you through the essential details of comic book framing, from understanding the importance of choosing the right materials and techniques to comic book frame suggestions.
Why Frame Your Comic Books?
- Protection Against Damage: Framing comic books provides a protective barrier against dust, moisture, and UV light, which can degrade comic books over time. Acid-free mats and UV-protective covers are essential for maintaining your collectibles’ colors and quality.
- Display Your Collection: Comic books often feature stunning cover art. Framing transforms these collectibles into visual art pieces, making them an eye-catching and central part of your decor.
- Maintain Value: Framed comic books, especially if done professionally, are better preserved and may retain or increase in value, crucial for rare or graded editions.
Comic Book Frame Suggestions
Choosing Matting for Comic Books
- Standard Matting: A single mat board in a neutral or bold color can complement the comic’s cover without overpowering it. For instance, white or black mats provide a classic look.
- Double Matting: Double mats create even more depth and emphasize the artwork by bringing out more pops of color. Choose an inner mat color that picks up a shade from the comic cover, paired with a neutral outer mat.
- Acid-Free Materials: Always use acid-free or archival-quality mats to avoid discoloration and damage over time.
At Frame It Easy we offer a wide selection of over 70 matboard options including more than 50 colors (shades ranging from green and blue to hot pink, yellow, red, and beyond!), metallics, patterns, plus premium quality conservation options, thicker plys, and 100% cotton museum-quality matting.
How Thick Can Comic Books Be?
When it comes to comic book framing, there are a few things to consider. Comic books vary in thickness, from single-issue floppy comics to thicker trade paperbacks or graphic novels. Most standard, big box store frames can accommodate comics up to 0.5 inches thick. If your comic book is thicker, consider:
- Shadow Box Frames: These provide extra depth for thicker issues or books. These are best displayed on shelves or a tabletop.
- Custom Frame Solutions: Customized picture frames ensure a perfect fit for any size or thickness. You can even determine which materials you opt for, so you know exactly what your display is made up of!
Here at Frame It Easy, we can frame any thinner art from 5″x5″ up to 42″x62″. Our Metal frames have room for artwork up to 1/4″ thick. (This includes matting, so if your frame has a single mat the artwork shouldn’t exceed 3/16″ thick and if it is double matted the artwork shouldn’t exceed 1/8″ thick.) The spring clips that hold your art into the frame will adjust perfectly as long as your art doesn’t exceed this thickness. Our Wood frames have room for artwork up to 1/8″ thick if they have no mats or one mat, and up to 1/16″ if they have two mats.
How Does Thickness Impact Framing?
- Mat and Spacer Selection: Thicker comics might require spacers to prevent the cover from pressing against the book. This not only protects the cover but also creates a more professional display, keeping things nice and neat.
- Mounting Options: Avoid adhesive mounts directly on the comic book. Use corner mounts or sleeves to protect the book without damage.
Best Frames for Comic Books
- Metal Frames: Sleek and modern, metal frames work well for comic books, especially when paired with bright colorful picture frames with vibrant or classic covers.
- Wood Frames: For a more traditional look, wood frames are a great choice. Choose lighter woods for modern comics and darker tones for vintage editions.
- Shadow Box Frames: Ideal for thicker comics or those you want to display with additional elements, such as certificates of authenticity or collectible figurines.
- UV-Protective Cover: Use glass or acrylic with UV protection to shield your comics from fading and sun damage.
May we recommend opting for our Conservation acrylic? Our Conservation Clear cover provides superior clarity with 99% UV protection. Perfect for artists, museums, galleries, larger works, and anything you want to preserve long-term, like your collectible comic books!
Tips for Framing Your Comic Books
- Custom Sizing: Ensure your frame and mat are measured to the comic’s dimensions for a snug, polished fit.
- Display Ideas: Consider creating a gallery wall of framed comics for a dynamic and eye-catching decor statement.
- Protect Graded Comics: For slabbed comics (graded and encased), choose a frame with sufficient depth to display them securely.
Where Can I Buy Comic Books?
Comic books can be purchased from many sources depending on your preferences and needs. Local comic book shops are a great starting point, offering not only a diverse selection but also the chance to connect with knowledgeable staff and fellow collectors. We love community! Online marketplaces like eBay provide a vast array of options, including rare and vintage editions. For new releases and exclusive editions, publishers’ websites or subscription services like Marvel Unlimited and DC Universe Infinite are ideal. Additionally, comic conventions and estate sales often feature unique finds for collectors. Just keep your eyes peeled!
Comic Book Framing Made Easy
Framing comic books is more than just preserving your collection—it’s a way to celebrate and showcase the artistry and storytelling that make comics special. With the right materials and techniques, your framed comic collectibles can become timeless pieces of art while staying protected for years to come. And as always, we make it EASY! Happy framing!
