Frame by Frame Animation (Cel Animation)

Frame by frame animation - often referred to as cel animation - represents the pinnacle of 2D craft. It is a meticulous, labor-intensive technique where every second of vision is built from individual drawings. When producing at a standard of 24 frames per second, the sheer volume of artistic output required is immense, resulting in a level of fluid, organic movement that software-driven interpolation simply cannot replicate.

At Jumbla, we specialise in this "hand-drawn" digital approach, blending traditional artistry with modern technology to create stunning visual narratives for brands across the globe.

Why Choose Frame by Frame Animation?

While modern animation often relies on "tweening" (where a computer calculates the movement between two points), frame by frame - or cel - animation requires an artist to define every single motion. This dedication to the craft offers several distinct advantages:

Authentic Hand-Drawn Aesthetic: It captures the charm and warmth of tactile artwork. This technique mimics the look of classic animation while remaining more versatile and adaptable for modern commercial needs.
The "2D-meets-3D" Effect: Frame by frame allows for complex "camera" rotations and character movements that look two-dimensional but move with the depth and weight of a 3D object. This unique style consistently surprises and engages viewers.
Enhanced Emotional Connection: There is an inherent human quality in hand-crafted sequences. Whether it is a subtle facial expression or a sweeping landscape, the "imperfections" of hand-drawing add a layer of soul to the content.

A Modern Evolution of a Classic Technique

The roots of this style lie in "cel" animation, named for the transparent sheets of celluloid paper used in early film production. While we’ve traded the physical ink and paint for high-end digital tablets and sophisticated software, the fundamental principles remain the same.

By removing the physical constraints of the past, our artists can push the boundaries of what is possible, delivering striking imagery and fluid motion that stands out in a crowded digital landscape.

See for yourself - Scottish Water & Polished Man

Jumbla has executed frame-by-frame animation for various projects, such as a set piece for Pause Fest and TV commercials for Scottish Water (UK).

One of our most celebrated and awarded videos - Polished Man - also featured the use of cel animation.

Flexible solutions

We can help you identify the best animation technique(s) for your next project - whether it's 2D animation, 3D animation, motion graphics, or cel animation - Jumbla has the creative talent to deliver outstanding results for you and your clients.

The best policy is to ask during our discussions - we'll always go the extra mile to help out!

Frame by Frame Animation FAQ

What exactly is frame by frame animation?

Also known as traditional or hand-drawn animation, this is a technique where every single frame in a sequence is drawn individually. When these frames are played in rapid succession, they create the illusion of seamless, organic movement.

How does frame by frame differ from standard 2D animation?

Standard 2D animation often uses "puppets" or vector shapes that a computer moves from point A to point B. Frame by frame animation requires the artist to redraw the subject in a slightly different pose for every single frame, allowing for more fluid and unique motion.

Is this technique suitable for modern marketing?

Absolutely. Because it feels "hand-crafted," it stands out against the sea of clean, corporate motion graphics. It is particularly effective for brands looking to convey authenticity, creativity, or a premium artistic feel.

How does Jumbla handle the production process?

We work closely with you to identify if frame by frame is the right fit for your goals. From conceptualization and character design to the final render, our animators and producers ensure that every one of those 24 frames per second perfectly reflects your brand identity.

Can I integrate my existing branding into this style?

Yes. Our team seamlessly incorporates your logo, specific color palettes, and typography into the hand-drawn environment, ensuring the final animation is both a work of art and a highly effective marketing tool.

Jumbla is a place of opportunity, growth, creation and fun. Here are just some of the reasons we’re proud to call ourselves “Jumblers”.

The People

We’re a lively bunch of creators who are passionate about what we do, but don’t take ourselves too seriously. We’re a diverse mix of unique personalities, socially united by our common interest in design. We like to hang out around the big communal table for lunches, crack open the beer and cider on Friday afternoons and do an organised night out once a month.

When a brief comes in, we band together to provide the best result possible. Our team comprises of around 20 people in creative roles and only about 8 people in other roles (such as producers) - unlike many studios today, which seem to have a reverse configuration.

Jumbla is a place of opportunity, growth, creation and fun. Here are just some of the reasons we’re proud to call ourselves “Jumblers”.

The People

I don’t know if I stumbled across Jumbla, or if they stumbled across me. Regardless, we fell into working together very easily and at every turn they have been a joy.

It’s the combination of smart people who genuinely get on board with your project and then deliver with skill and craft. You can tell that Jumbla take pride in what they do and how they go about doing it.

There are very few shops in the world where you find that comfort zone right away, where you just start working. Jumbla is one of them.

Jonas Lembke

Executive Creative Director

Atomic212º

It was a pleasure to work with Jumbla - always dedicated, positive and collaborative. Even with a tight deadline, we liked how they found creative solutions to any challenges that arose, adding beautiful imaginative builds - all done with great passion.

I highly recommend working with them and I'm looking forward to collaborating again in the future.

Thank you very much!

Darren Mulkerrins

Design Director

Landor

We engaged Jumbla to create an entirely new creative direction for our men’s footwear brand Julius Marlow. Something that immediately impressed me about the business was the creativity of the entire team. Our producer really understood our brief, and spending time with the creative director was extremely exciting, largely due to the passion and professionalism they both had.

The finished piece created by the team was described by our CEO as the single best piece of creative our business had ever had made, and we achieved record sales online and across all retail channels.

Chris Thompson

Digital Marketing and Innovation Manager

The Brand Collective