Adhesive Tape

Sports are big, but how big is the sports memorabilia business? Experts estimate that it is currently worth over $2 billion. Fans who are not satisfied merely to watch games and track statistics of their favorite teams (such as the New England Patriots) collect all types of sports memorabilia items. This can be a hobby, or even a full-time job.

One of the main concerns when collecting any type of memorabilia, such as sports memorabilia, is keeping the items in top-notch condition. Use a shadowbox to protect your items from dust, dirt, moisture, etc., in order to maximize the items' value. Here are some easy steps to construct your own sports memorabilia shadowboxes:

Step 1: Collect and prepare the materials

• 8"x10" maple 106 natural frame
• 8"x10" mounting board
• 8"x10" papermat mat board
• 8"x10" plexiglass
• 786 Slate Blue
• Flat-head screwdriver
• Sharp cutting blade
• Kraft paper.
• Adhesive transfer tape

Determine the size of the sports memorabilia you want to include in the shadowbox, and then allow for about two inches from the item, to the border.

Step 2: Use the mat board
Attach the memorabilia to the mat board, using one of a variety of items, such as glue or adhesive transfer tape. Then cut 12 stripes from the two remaining sheets of mat board (6-8" strips and 6-10" strips). Attach the strips in stacks of three, utilizing the adhesive transfer tape. You should have two 8" strips, and two 10" strips. This will serve as a buffer between the sports memorabilia and the plexiglass.

Step 3: Start constructing the shadowbox
Place the frame face-down. Peel off one side of the protective paper, and then place it into the frame. Then peel off the other protective paper. Attach the strips of mat board to the inside region of the frame, using adhesive transfer tape. The mat board should be flush against the plexiglass and the frame.

Step 4: Putting everything together
Position the sports memorabilia item and its attached board, inside the frame. Next, place all the pieces from Step 1, face-down, atop the strips of mat board. Position the mounting board inside the frame. Use the screwdriver to attach spring clips to the frame.

Step 5: Add finishing touches
Your next mission (should you wish to accept it), is to attach a dust cover and hanging hardware, to the shadowbox. Attach adhesive transfer tape onto the frame's back, and then put Kraft paper atop it-to create a dust cover. Use a dust cover trimmer to cut away extra paper. Spray water onto the paper, to tighten the paper. Finally, attach a wire or saw tooth, and "hanging hardware" to the back of the shadowbox.

Regardless of which NFL team you cheer on during the season, you may have sports memorabilia that you want to display. Use a shadowbox to show off your items, while protecting them from harmful substances. Shadowboxes erase any shadow of a doubt that your sports memorabilia is not safe and secure!

Rick Grantham is an avid sports fan. Most of Rick's articles focus on New England Patriots sports merchandise. Many articles are related to NFL sports gear and other sports related topics. Rick is a contributing author to BooYah Village

Minn Kota Trolling Motors