Buzz
If you've ever displayed popular action figures, you know how frustrating it can be when a rogue superhero keeps falling and dragging their teammates down with them. Thankfully, there are many ways to keep your figures standing tall. From pre-made display stands designed for action figures to clever DIY hacks, there’s something for everyone. Just remember, it’s best to use a display stand with a peg designed specifically for the brand if you want to preserve your action figure’s value in the long run.
Steps
Display Stand
Display stands are a good option if the action figure has a peg hole. Most action figures have a small round hole on one of their feet. If your figure has a hole, you can use a display stand. Simply visit a toy store or search online for one. Just insert the peg into the hole in the bottom of the figure’s foot, and it will stay upright.
- These stands come in various sizes. You can measure the hole on the bottom of your figure's foot and check the peg diameter on the stand to see which one fits.
- Check the packaging or search online to confirm whether the stand is compatible with your figure's brand.
Low Stand
This is a great option if you want to display your action figure in a unique pose. A low stand is a small, adjustable round-frame stand that elevates the figure 10–15 cm or more from its base. You simply place the figure’s waist into the frame to secure it. Unlike a display stand, a low stand lets you adjust the figure’s pose without worrying about the feet being level on the base.
- Make sure the round frame fits around your figure’s waist. If possible, buy directly or research online to confirm that the stand is compatible with the brand of your figure.
- Low stands are typically designed for human-shaped action figures. If you have a giant figure like the Hulk or a Funko Pop with a large head, this type of stand may not be effective.
High Stand
A high stand is a great option if you want your figure to appear suspended in mid-air. These stands feature small hooks or pegs at the top. To mount your figure, find the connection point between the legs and hips. There is usually a small gap between these parts. Attach the connection to the peg on the stand to keep the figure suspended. You may need to experiment to find the position that keeps the figure balanced and stable.
- If you want Spider-Man to appear swinging between buildings or Batman preparing for action, a high stand is your best choice.
- You can also make a DIY stand by drilling a small hole in a block of wood and inserting a small wooden skewer. Paint it to your liking and attach the figure to the top of the skewer.
Sticky Clay
Sticky clay is a great option if you want to hide the display stand. Take a small piece of sticky clay, about the size of a bean, and place it underneath the figure’s foot, pressing it down with your finger. Then, push the figure’s foot into the desired spot. This way, your figure will stand without toppling, and there won’t be any excess clay visible under the surface.
- You can find sticky clay at art supply stores, craft shops, or bookstores.
- If you’re displaying your figure on any surface other than glass, sticky clay might leave residue underneath. While not a major issue, it can be a bit tricky to clean when you want to move the figure.
- You can apply the sticky clay to both feet for extra stability, but typically, one small piece is sufficient unless you are posing the figure in an unusual position.
Fishing Line
Use fishing line to suspend your action figure in mid-air. Wrap the fishing line around the figure’s waist and tie it securely. Cut off the excess and hang it from a suction hook, wall hook, or tack. This is a great way to hang figures below a display case or bookshelf.
- You can even hang them from the ceiling if your display area is cramped.
- Note that this idea may not be suitable for valuable or sentimental figures. Over time, the fishing line could slip off the hook, the suction cup might detach, or the knot might loosen.
Wire
This is a simple and inexpensive DIY stand solution. Purchase some wire, and using pliers, bend the wire around the figure’s ankle 2-3 times to secure it. Leave about 7.5 to 15 cm of wire, depending on the height of your figure. Use your hands or pliers to shape the wire into several horizontal loops. Stand the figure upright and adjust the wire to ensure it rests flat.
- You can find wire at hardware stores. It’s often made from galvanized steel and comes in various thicknesses.
- If the figure’s base has a hole, you can bend the wire to fit that hole and create a standing base.
- Note: The wire wrapped around the figure’s ankle may leave scratches.
- This option works best for lightweight figures that don’t need too much support to stand.
Insulation Foam
If you enjoy customizing your display base, this material is perfect for you. Use a utility knife to cut a short piece of insulation foam into a triangular or circular shape. Now you can shape the base by trimming or carving it into patterns like grass, rocks, and more. You can crumple aluminum foil or sandpaper to cover it, making it look like old bricks or a desolate battlefield. Then, paint the base with acrylic colors.
- You can secure the figure by inserting a peg into the foam or cutting a hole to fit the figure’s foot, keeping it stable. Additionally, you can place another base on top of the foam for extra support.
Magnets and Washers
Magnets combined with washers make a fantastic and subtle display stand. Find small round magnets (like fridge magnets) and glue them to the feet of the action figure you want to display. If you can find smaller magnets, you can insert them into the hole at the bottom of the figure’s base. Then, attach a few metal washers to the magnets. The washers will help keep the figure from toppling over.
- You can buy washers at hardware or metal stores.
Display Case
Display boxes are ideal for showcasing valuable models. Most display boxes offer enough space to include a base or stand, but you might not always need these accessories. If you place the figure upright in the box, the four acrylic walls will prevent it from tipping over or bumping into nearby displayed figures.
- Additionally, the display box provides excellent protection for special models that hold significant value or are important to you.
- Some display boxes even come with built-in LED lights, perfect for making the figures stand out on a shelf.
Wall
You can always place your model figures against a wall directly on a shelf. This may not be the most complete solution as the model might not stand out if the display shelf is crowded. However, if you have a large collection and some figures constantly fall over, placing them deeper on the shelf with their backs against the wall can be a good option.
- Heavier models are less likely to tip over.
- You can adjust the positioning of the figures to make it seem like they're intentionally leaning against the wall!
Advice
- If you receive an action figure still in its original packaging and wish to display it on the wall, you can drive a small nail or pin into the plaster wall and hang the hook or the top hole of the package on it.
