Framing:

Here is a simple, inexpensive way to frame cels. Most craft stores offer relatively inexpensive frames. Purchase one that is approximately 10" by 13." In addition, purchase two mattes (borders) of a color that will complement your cel, also measuring 10" x 13", but that will display an 8" x 10" area. This is suitable for standard size cels. The framing process is as follows:

• Open up the back of the frame and remove everything except the glass. There's usually a piece of paper and a sheet of thin cardboard present.
• Put one of the mattes against the glass, with the colored side toward the front of the frame.
• Next, lay the cel over the matte and tape two of the edges, using small pieces of cellophane tape, so that the tape cannot be seen from the front of the frame. The cel should not be touching the glass at all.
• Lay the second matte on top of the cel. This matte can be any color, as it will not be seen from the front of the frame.
• On top of the matte, lay a white sheet of paper or the sketch, if you want the sketch to be slightly visible behind the cel.
• Finally, replace the cardboard and/or the frame backing and close it.

The result is somewhat of a 3-D effect, the cel suspended between the two mattes and separated from the glass and the paper backing. If the cel comes with a painted background, include that in place of the white paper or sketch.

Cel Binders:

For larger collections of cels that would be cost prohibitive to frame completely, special binders, which are available at most art supply stores for around $12.00 or so, allow for safe storage and easy access to a collection. I prefer a brand made by a Japanese company called Itoya (available in the U.S.). The best size binder to use is the 11" x 14" that contains 24 clear vinyl pages open at one end like a sheath. Each of these vinyl "sheaths" contains a piece of black paper that facilitates storing two cels back to back. My advice would be to reverse the sketch, so the back of the sketch is against the painted side of the cel, and then slip both into a cel bag. Next, slide the cel bag into the sheath in the binder.

It is not always easy to find good cel bags without purchasing them in bulk from a wholesaler, as most dealers do. Therefore, it's a good idea to ask your dealer if he or she can supply you with a few extra cel bags with your order, or sell them to you for a nominal charge.

Most cel dealers are happy to answer questions, as they also appreciate repeat business. If you're able to build a good relationship with your dealer, and they learn your preferences, they may also be willing to keep their eyes open for cels they know you'll appreciate. Happy collecting.

Joe Palermo has lived in Japan for eight years, is fluent in Japanese, and has always been interested in Japanese animation. He currently runs a website featuring original Japanese Animation Cels and other anime related goods. Visit Joe's site Japanimationcity.