5 Practical Tips for Storing NFL Gear in Shadow Boxes

Do you collect anything? Starting at an early age, we as humans seek acceptance from others, by sharing things that we own. Think back to when you were in elementary school. We eagerly waited for "Show and Tell" day, so we could reveal some fascinating pet, collection, or talent that we had. As adults, we still love to show our collection of cars, paintings, stamps, antiques, bottle caps, etc.

For dedicated sports enthusiasts, the best way to show our love for the game is by collecting and displaying our sports collectibles. For instance, if we collect NFL gear, then we want the world to enjoy our collection of Bobble Heads, mini replica helmets, mascot plush toys, etc. One of the best ways to display our sports collectibles is by using a shadow box. A shadow box is an enclosed case that you can use to display various items. Here are some tips for using shadow boxes to display your NFL memorabilia:

1. Create themes for groups of shadow boxes

Even when using shadow boxes for NFL merchandise, you could group them into sub-themes, such as Bobble heads, autographed mini helmets, trading cards, etc. Having groups of shadow boxes with a single sub-theme will help your displays to be better organized.

2. Get creative with the shadow box

You can use as much creativity when choosing the shadow boxes themselves, as with their contents. If something is hollow and shaped like a box, it could be a candidate for a shadow box. Some examples of makeshift shadow boxes include:

• cabinets

• cardboard boxes

• curios

• display cases

• drawers

When creating your own shadow box, you will need to use a material for a background. Some options include paint, cardboard (covered with fabric), foam core, fabric, and hardboard.

3. Arrange the items carefully

Another issue when creating a shadow box is how to arrange the items in it. Place photographs and objects on paper, in the back-either propped up or pasted. Meanwhile, you should typically place the biggest item at the bottom of the shadow box, with other items surrounding it.

4. To cover or not to cover

After filling up your shadow box with NFL collectibles, you have the option to seal or not to seal the box, with fitted glass. Of course, when displaying any objects of significant value, it is highly recommended that you use the fitted glass. This will keep your collectibles safe and clean.

5. Hang your shadow boxes properly

It is important to match the theme of a group of shadow boxes, with the theme of a room. Thus, the best places for shadow boxes of NFL collectibles include recreation rooms, basements, living rooms, hallways, etc. On the other hand, a nursery and kitchen would be awkward locations for shadow boxes containing NFL collectibels-even for the most avid sports fanatic who visits your home.

It is also important to use brackets if the shadow boxes are particularly heavy. The brackets will serve as practical reinforcements.

Read some practical tips for sorting NFL gear in some shadow boxes.