Pennant framing questions

[thetahat]

I didn't want to gum up the "pennant guys" thread with this, so I thought I'd make it separate. Over the last couple weeks I bought my first two already-framed pennants. I collect primarily to display, which means I don't really care for frames that take up a lot of wall space. But I couldn't pass up these two based on the deals I got. The '55 WS pennant was dying on the vine in an REA auction, and the Ebbets pennant is a condition upgrade for me (I have two others in cloth that show some mild discoloration), was a reasonable price even without the frame, and might be one of my 3-4 favorites in strong condition.

I intend to keep the WS pennant in its frame but may crack open the Ebbets pennant, perhaps to sell the frame separately or to frame another pennant that I will sell. I'd prefer to put Ebbets on my wall in a cheap pennant holder. Here are my questions, realizing that your answers may not pertain to these two in question but others with which you have experience:

1. How much do such frames/framing jobs cost? Both are double matted, and seemingly well done. I don't really have a frame of reference to gauge it.

2. Are frames easy to disassemble and put back together? The backing of both is brown paper. I'll have to replace that. Not sure about the inside.

3. For those who have bought pennants already framed: How likely do you think it is that the pennant is glued to the backing? (This is me being too dumb to think to ask the seller. I did just ask the Ebbets seller, as I have the option to return.) I have looked closely for threads holding it up but don't see any, and the pennant is not pressed against the glass.

Again, you can't know for sure the specifics of these two so I guess I am just seeking some general input. Thanks!

[ooo-ribay]

Framing is expensive. I wouldn’t doubt both those jobs ran $200+. Maybe $300+.

If you just want to get the pennant(s) out, that should be do-able. Actually disassembling the frame would be tough.

[perezfan]

Greg-

They are either glued, taped or stitched to the matting (if pennant is not touching the glass). I've taken them apart on occasion, and would have to say the bad surprises outnumber the good.

I guess many framers never envisioned these pennants to be removed at a future date. Some are permanently adhered with glue or tape that grabs/rips the felt severely. Others are taped on, but with a less intrusive (less sticky) tape. These can often be removed with little-to-no damage.

Pennants that are glued on are the toughest. When separating them from the mat, try to be sure you leave less felt behind than cardboard. It's really tough to separate the two.

Stitching with a fine thread does the least damage, and sometimes it's really hard to see the thread. So there's at least a chance they will be easy to remove. Best of luck!

[thetahat]

Guys ... thanks for feedback. I’ll keep you posted on what I learn from my inquiries. The Ebbets pennant can be returned; the WS pennant has the framer’s name on the back and I reached out to them, too.

[ooo-ribay]

P.S. You mentioned replacing the brown paper. It’s really not essential; just a finishing touch from a professional framer, IMO.

[conor912]

I wouldn't be surprised if that WS pennant was a $400+ frame job. I'm a big fan of nice frame jobs for paper items, but for pennants I have been very happy with these $30 handmade frames I got on Etsy.

[rlevy]

Originally Posted by thetahat

1. How much do such frames/framing jobs cost? Both are double matted, anseemingly well done. I don't really have a frame of reference to gauge it.

2. Are frames easy to disassemble and put back together? The backing of both is brown paper. I'll have to replace that. Not sure about the inside.

3. For those who have bought pennants already framed: How likely do you think it is that the pennant is glued to the backing? (This is me being too dumb to think to ask the seller. I did just ask the Ebbets seller, as I have the option to return.) I have looked closely for threads holding it up but don't see any, and the pennant is not pressed against the glass.

Again, you can't know for sure the specifics of these two so I guess I am just seeking some general input. Thanks!

That framing is pretty pricey, I think Rob is correct that they would run $200-300, maybe more. It also depends on the glass/ plexiglass used. If it's museum quality anti-glare and u/v protection, the acrylic alone could run $100+. If it's just regular glass, it is a lot cheaper.

When you say disassemble, I assume you mean remove the backing and the pennants, and not actually take the frame itself apart. The brown paper is glued to the back of the frame, and is there to keep dust from getting in, and can easily be removed. The matting should be held in place by framing points, little metal sharp pieces, that can be removed with a screwdriver or needlenose pliers (just wiggle them out). They can be reused, but it is much easier to reinsert them if you have the proper tool. If you use pliers, just make sure you use a towel to protect the outside of the frame. And my guess is that the pennants may be mounted with some double sided tape, unless you can see tiny stitches somewhere.

Rick