What this construction is
A clamshell is a hinged box where the lid and base are the same depth and meet at the middle, so the piece sits in one half and the other closes over it. It is the most protective small-box construction there is.
Rigid board on this construction, specifically
A board clamshell is a shipping and protection box rather than a keepsake. It does the job honestly and it should be specified as that rather than dressed up as something it is not.
Getting the fit right
Because both halves are deep, the interior can hold a piece from both sides — a pad in the lid pressing gently onto the piece in the base. That is what stops movement in transit without a tight seat.
The mistake to avoid
A lid pad that presses too hard marks a soft stone or an enamel. The pad has to be sized to touch and not to clamp, and that is set on the sample with the actual piece in it.
Where it is used
Pieces that ship rather than pieces that sit on a counter, and anything fragile enough that movement inside the box is the main risk.
Why rigid board
Board wrapped in paper or textured stock. The lightest and most shippable of the constructions, and the one that gives the widest colour and texture range.
Putting your logo on rigid board
Board is the best surface of all for print. Foil, deboss, spot varnish and flat colour all work, and fine typography holds.
Cutting the interior in rigid board
A board box is built around its insert; the insert is usually a die-cut foam or board platform wrapped in the lining material.
Keep dry. Board recovers from a light knock better than lacquer, but a wet mark is permanent.
What we need from you
| What we need | Why |
|---|---|
| Piece dimensions | Sets the interior |
| Rigid board colour | Matched to a Pantone reference or a swatch |
| Logo artwork | Vector gives the cleanest die or screen |
| Rigid board on this construction | A board clamshell is a shipping and protection box rather than a keepsake. |
Frequently asked questions
Is rigid board a good choice for a clamshell box?
A board clamshell is a shipping and protection box rather than a keepsake. It does the job honestly and it should be specified as that rather than dressed up as something it is not.
How does rigid board wear on this construction?
Keep dry. Board recovers from a light knock better than lacquer, but a wet mark is permanent.
Can it be made in our colour?
Yes — the rigid board is matched to a Pantone reference or a physical swatch, and confirmed on a sample.
What logo methods suit rigid board?
Board is the best surface of all for print. Foil, deboss, spot varnish and flat colour all work, and fine typography holds.
Can I see it before ordering?
Yes. A physical pre-production sample is made to your specification and the bulk run is held to the sample you approve.
Make your clamshell boxes
Tell us the piece, your brand and the quantity you have in mind. We’ll send photos of our work and one clear, all-in quote.