What it does
A fitted insert that drops into an existing tray or safe drawer, turning a plain surface into seats for specific pieces.
Metal on a tray insert, specifically
Metal inserts are for trade use — holding stock, not presenting it. Anything customer-facing needs a soft facing over the metal.
Getting the proportion right
The insert is cut to the tray, so the tray dimensions come first. A standard insert in a non-standard tray leaves gaps where pieces travel.
How metal display is made
Metal display is formed and plated or powder-coated rather than covered. The finish is decided at the plating stage and cannot be adjusted afterwards, so the sample matters more here than on any wrapped material.
Where it is used
Safe drawers, counter trays and existing display furniture.
Metal under case lighting
A polished metal display throws hard reflections and will bounce a spot straight back at the customer. Brushed and matt finishes are the usual specification in a lit case; polish belongs in a window where the light is controlled.
The mistake to avoid
Inserts for safe drawers have to allow for the drawer runner clearance, which is easy to forget when measuring the opening.
Why metal
Metal display — brass, gold finish, black or silver — gives the thinnest possible support. A metal stand almost disappears, which is the point: the piece appears to float.
Wipe with a dry cloth. A brushed finish hides handling better than a polished one.
What we need from you
| What we need | Why |
|---|---|
| Height and footprint | The insert is cut to the tray, so the tray dimensions come first. |
| Metal colour | Matched to a Pantone reference or a swatch |
| Metal on this form | Metal inserts are for trade use — holding stock, not presenting it. |
Frequently asked questions
Can tray inserts be made in our brand colour?
Yes — the metal is matched to a Pantone reference or a physical swatch, and confirmed on a sample.
What sizes do tray inserts come in?
They are made to your dimensions. The insert is cut to the tray, so the tray dimensions come first. A standard insert in a non-standard tray leaves gaps where pieces travel.
Is metal a good choice for a tray insert?
Metal inserts are for trade use — holding stock, not presenting it. Anything customer-facing needs a soft facing over the metal.
What goes wrong most often with tray inserts?
Inserts for safe drawers have to allow for the drawer runner clearance, which is easy to forget when measuring the opening.
Can tray inserts be made to match our boxes?
Yes — the same metal and the same colour across boxes and display, ordered in one run.
Specify your tray inserts
Tell us your case or window height, what the tray inserts have to show, and your brand colour. We’ll send photos of our work and one clear, all-in quote.