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dressurfan

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Joined
May 12, 2001
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29
OK - fellow framers, here is my challenge...
I have been asked to frame a speed skating uniform/costume/body suit/skin. This was from the last Olympics - it is signed by the althlete on the front. This is a whole body suit - looks and feels kinda like spandex. A person needs to stretch it out just so you can get a feel of the shape. Any suggestions?????? I've been given carte blanche (oh yeah!!!) Has anyone else done something like this? I've done a ton of jerseys, but this is a different puppy altogether. It must be five feet long - and that isn't stretched out!!!
 
I have seen full body suits mounted on the ceiling of sports bars; I notice things on the ceilings of bars a quite a bit.

My suggestion would be to become a taxidermist type and flesh out a model with batting, cotton, etc. to dress. I hope the client has a big sturdy wall because this thing is probably going to be about 4' x 6'. Another idea would be full cut a piece of acrylic to fill out the profile and dress it. You are going to have a lot of fun.

Jack Cee
 
How about dressing up a manequin?? (Is that the correct spelling?) :rolleyes:
 
Jack - notice the ceilings on bars alot????? Hehehe - too much rum?????

Just kidding - I was thinking of the plexiform actually. Once I get this project done, I'll have to try to post photo's for you all to see and critique. Thanks for the advice!!
 
Get in touch with Lois Bauby here on The Grumble. She knows everything there is to know about acrylic, and can help you quite a bit with this. Just search on acrylic or jerseys, and Lois's name will turn up. She is "The Acrylic Queen", and is a great help to us all. ;)
 
Perhaps you could go to a local display fixtures store, or get a catalog, or search the net for a source of light-gauge molded plastic mennequin-type figure to "wear" the suit. This might present frame-depth challenges, but my favorite solution to that is a plexi box w. 3/16" flanges to hold a frame around the outside. The box can be any depth needed, and the piece can be seen from all angles, while still having a nice frame around it.

Good luck :cool: Rick
 
If you do use a plastic form make sure it's a good kind of plastic (e.g. not polyvinylchloride which can ooze plasticisers). I would also cover any plastic with washed cotton jersey to avoid static/slip problems. Or, you could try these guys.

http://www.museumfigures.com/conservation/conservation.html

Rebecca
 
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