Framing Animation Cels

Animation cels, were not created to be permanent. Adhesives used in the paint, for example, helped the paint stick to the cellulose, but also increased the likelihood that the paint would stick to the background or other cel layers.

Framing fragile animation layers requires a procedure that protects these cel layers from one another. Since cel animation are painted on both sides of each layer, they need to be matted on both sides to insure sufficient air space between them and there is contact between the layers.

This precaution not only aids the preservation of the paint, but also allows dramatically sets off the layers, giving them a 3-D effect.

Direct sunlight damages Cels extremely quickly so we strongly recommend using UV protected glass if these cels will be exposed to any sort of sunlight while in the frame.

This article and images are from www.framersworkshop.com . There articles are amazing on framing and if you want an in depth view on traditional animation and how to frame, they are by far the best on the internet.