Expert
Animation Cel
Framing

No — we do not offer restoration for animation cels. If your cel is flaking, cracking, or otherwise damaged, we strongly recommend contacting a qualified art conservator in your area — ideally someone experienced with acetate or animation artwork. Proper restoration requires conservation training, and attempting to fix damage yourself can cause permanent harm.

Unlike most artwork, animation cels were not created to last longer than needed to produce the animated film. The oldest cels are the rarest, most delicate, and most valuable. Newer cels — especially those made just before digital animation took over — are more affordable, but will become increasingly rare and collectible if properly preserved. The worst things that can happen to animation cels are: exposure to UV light, extreme heat or cold, high humidity, and bending or curling of the cel, which can cause the paint to crack and fall off. Framing them properly protects both their artwork and their value.

We don’t recommend it. Even well-meaning DIY efforts can unintentionally damage a cel — especially if glass, adhesives, or non-archival materials are involved. We also don’t sell kits, because no two cels are alike. Every one is custom-framed to suit its structure, size, and condition.

We only use Optium Museum Acrylic®. It’s anti-reflective, shatterproof, and most importantly, anti-static — which prevents cel layers from being pulled toward the surface. It also blocks 99% of harmful UV light and won’t yellow or degrade over time.

It’s up to you. Some collectors love seeing the registration holes as part of the history of the art. Others prefer a cleaner mat window. We’ll design it however you’d like — just let us know your preference.

We never use glue or tape on the cel itself. Instead, we use invisible archival supports — like custom-cut Mylar strips — to suspend the cel safely in the frame. Spacers keep the artwork from touching the glazing, allowing it to "float" securely.

Absolutely. We frame cels for collectors across the country. Before you ship, document your artwork’s condition from multiple angles (a smartphone works just fine). Pack it securely, insure it against damage in transit, and email us the tracking number once it's on its way. If the package arrives with visible external damage, we’ll contact you right away.

ricing depends on several factors: cel size, number of layers, matting choices, and frame style. While we don’t have a formal form (yet), you can Contact Us and let us know the cel’s dimensions, whether it includes a background, how many layers it has, and any design ideas you’d like to explore. We’ll reply with a ballpark estimate.

Definitely! Many collectors frame cels with their original painted or printed backgrounds. If you have one, just let us know — we’ll design the frame to showcase both pieces together while keeping them safe.

We recommend soft, indirect lighting. Never expose your cel to direct sunlight or harsh fluorescent light — repeated long exposure to any bright light can cause the cel’s substrate to expand and contract, leading to cracking, paint loss, increased outgassing, and other forms of deterioration.