What this construction is
A gatefold box opens as two doors from the centre rather than as a single lid, so the interior is revealed outward from the middle. It is the most theatrical opening we make and the one clients remember.
Velvet on this construction, specifically
Two velvet doors meeting at a centre line is the hardest join in this catalogue to get right, because pile makes any gap read as a shadow. It also makes a perfect join look seamless, which is why it is worth the trouble.
Getting the fit right
The two doors have to meet exactly at the centre line, and they have to stay met. A gatefold that stands slightly open at the join reads as broken, so the closure — magnets, a ribbon or a lip — is not optional here.
The mistake to avoid
Two doors means two hinges and twice the chance of one sitting proud. Check the closed box at the centre line on the sample; that join is the only thing anyone looks at.
Where it is used
Sets, presentation pieces and anything where the opening is meant to be an event — bridal, corporate gifting and launch packaging in particular.
Why velvet
Velvet is a cut-pile fabric with a longer, softer nap than microfibre suede. It is the traditional jewellery lining and still the one most buyers associate with a gift.
Putting your logo on velvet
Velvet does not hold a hot-stamp the way board or leatherette does. A metal plate, or a lid card, is the more reliable way to carry a logo on a velvet exterior.
Cutting the interior in velvet
A velvet slot closes on the shank under its own spring. The pile hides the cut edge, so the slot can be made slightly generous without looking loose.
Brush with the pile. Avoid pressing a heavy piece into the same spot for months at a time, or the pile takes a set.
What we need from you
| What we need | Why |
|---|---|
| Piece dimensions | Sets the interior |
| Velvet colour | Matched to a Pantone reference or a swatch |
| Logo artwork | Vector gives the cleanest die or screen |
| Velvet on this construction | Two velvet doors meeting at a centre line is the hardest join in this catalogue to get right, because pile makes any gap read as a shadow. |
Frequently asked questions
Is velvet a good choice for a gatefold box?
Two velvet doors meeting at a centre line is the hardest join in this catalogue to get right, because pile makes any gap read as a shadow. It also makes a perfect join look seamless, which is why it is worth the trouble.
How does velvet wear on this construction?
Brush with the pile. Avoid pressing a heavy piece into the same spot for months at a time, or the pile takes a set.
Can it be made in our colour?
Yes — the velvet is matched to a Pantone reference or a physical swatch, and confirmed on a sample.
What logo methods suit velvet?
Velvet does not hold a hot-stamp the way board or leatherette does. A metal plate, or a lid card, is the more reliable way to carry a logo on a velvet exterior.
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 gatefold 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.