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.
Lacquered wood on this construction, specifically
A lacquered clamshell is the most protective small box there is — two rigid halves closing on a padded piece. It is what a valuable piece ships in when the box also has to be kept.
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 lacquered wood
A wood carcass built up in layers of lacquer and polished back to a piano finish. This is the heaviest and most formal thing we make.
Putting your logo on lacquered wood
Lacquer is engraved, or carries an inlaid metal plate. Foil does not bond reliably to a polished lacquer surface.
Cutting the interior in lacquered wood
The interior is a separate lined tray dropped into the carcass, so the lining material is chosen independently of the shell.
Dust with a dry microfibre cloth. Polish only with a product made for lacquer.
What we need from you
| What we need | Why |
|---|---|
| Piece dimensions | Sets the interior |
| Lacquered wood colour | Matched to a Pantone reference or a swatch |
| Logo artwork | Vector gives the cleanest die or screen |
| Lacquered wood on this construction | A lacquered clamshell is the most protective small box there is — two rigid halves closing on a padded piece. |
Frequently asked questions
Is lacquered wood a good choice for a clamshell box?
A lacquered clamshell is the most protective small box there is — two rigid halves closing on a padded piece. It is what a valuable piece ships in when the box also has to be kept.
How does lacquered wood wear on this construction?
Dust with a dry microfibre cloth. Polish only with a product made for lacquer.
Can it be made in our colour?
Yes — the lacquered wood is matched to a Pantone reference or a physical swatch, and confirmed on a sample.
What logo methods suit lacquered wood?
Lacquer is engraved, or carries an inlaid metal plate. Foil does not bond reliably to a polished lacquer surface.
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.