Board hinges
On a rigid box, the hinge is often the wrap itself — a scored fold in the covering material. There is no metal to loosen and nothing to break, and for a box opened a handful of times it is the right answer.
Where a box will be opened daily for years, a scored hinge will eventually soften at the fold.
Metal hinges
A metal hinge suits a box that gets constant use — a watch box kept on a dresser, a counter display opened all day. It also carries weight that a scored fold will not.
Metal shows. On a plain box a visible hinge is a design decision, not a hidden one, so it is worth seeing it on the sample.
Magnets
A magnetic closure gives a clean line with no visible catch, and it holds a lid shut in transit. Strength has to suit the lid — a magnet strong enough for a heavy lid is unpleasant on a light one.
Magnets and the shipping of magnets both have rules attached. We handle that on our side, but it is a reason to specify a magnetic closure early rather than late.
Clasps and catches
A visible clasp reads as traditional and it survives handling well. It also adds a step to opening, which matters if the box is opened in front of a customer.
Matching hardware to the use
Ask how many times the box will be opened. A gift box opened once, a customer's own box opened weekly and a shop's display opened all day are three different specifications, even when they look the same.
At a glance
| Use | What suits it |
|---|---|
| Opened once, as a gift | Scored board hinge, or a slip lid |
| Kept and used weekly | Metal hinge or a magnetic closure |
| Opened all day in a shop | Metal hinge |
| Posted often | Magnet or clasp, to hold the lid shut in transit |
Frequently asked questions
Which lasts longer, a board hinge or a metal one?
A metal hinge, on a box opened frequently. On a box opened a few times a scored board hinge outlives the need.
Are magnetic closures a problem for shipping?
There are rules around shipping magnets and we handle them. It is a reason to specify a magnetic closure at quotation rather than late.
Will a magnet hold a heavy lid?
Yes, with the right strength. A magnet chosen for a heavy lid feels wrong on a light one, so it is matched to the lid.
Can hardware be finished to match our brand?
Finishes are available in a range. Approve the finish on the physical sample — metal reads differently in the hand than on a screen.
Tell us what you need
Tell us what you are making and what it has to hold. We’ll tell you what it takes and send one clear, all-in quote.