DIY Framing for Anime Posters
Posted: Wed Aug 08, 2018 4:24 pm
Since custom frames for artwork aren't cheap, here is my solution for import anime prints you'd like to display. The initial difficulty is accommodating the odd metric size the majority are cut to; my posters are all slightly larger than B2 (50x70 cm). Trimming is a bad idea, since the art or text is usually full bleed (runs to the edges). Years ago when I had access to a wood shop, making custom frames was possible. Personally, I don't want to spend the time to cut, sand, and paint frames one at a time. I'd rather buy an affordable option, and try to make it suit my needs.
IMO, the best seller of bargain frames is IKEA. Amidst the choices there is a 60 x 80cm frame in the RIBBA line, product #80378442 ($20). This fits close enough to use without an interior mat. Instead, you will use the original mat included as a cutting guide. The second purchase is a "backing sheet" made from a piece of crescent board or foam board (24 x 32 min). I bought black foam board from a craft store for about 7 bucks. The next supply needed is a light tack double sided tape, typically found with scrap-booking products in craft stores. Once the new backing is cut to match the IKEA mat, all you have to do is tack down your poster. In the photo below, you can see the removed mat and the background border created from being about 3cm larger.
IKEA also makes 12 x 12 "record album" frames that work well with Laserdisc sleeves/inserts and sign boards.
IMO, the best seller of bargain frames is IKEA. Amidst the choices there is a 60 x 80cm frame in the RIBBA line, product #80378442 ($20). This fits close enough to use without an interior mat. Instead, you will use the original mat included as a cutting guide. The second purchase is a "backing sheet" made from a piece of crescent board or foam board (24 x 32 min). I bought black foam board from a craft store for about 7 bucks. The next supply needed is a light tack double sided tape, typically found with scrap-booking products in craft stores. Once the new backing is cut to match the IKEA mat, all you have to do is tack down your poster. In the photo below, you can see the removed mat and the background border created from being about 3cm larger.
IKEA also makes 12 x 12 "record album" frames that work well with Laserdisc sleeves/inserts and sign boards.