How to Display Shadow Boxes

You've decided you want to preserve something and enjoy it, too--so you've purchased a shadow box. Shadow boxes allow for the display of something (old family heirlooms and photographs, military medals or anything else special but fragile) while protecting it somewhat from the effects of light. Shadow boxes additionally allow for the "framing" of something that otherwise (due to its dimensions) couldn't be framed. So how should you display it?

Instructions

1. Observe the light in your room of choice. Are there lots of windows? Where are the lights? In what direction does the light coming into the room travel? These are important questions, because a shadow box is bordered by raised edges that don't allow any light from the sides. If you want to be able to see what's being displayed, you'll need a light source facing the shadow box directly.

2. Observe how the light sources hit the walls, and you'll see where your shadow box can be well displayed.

3. Use a standard nail or hook to hang up your shadow box on the chosen spot on the wall, facing the light. If it is heavy, you may wish to use more than one.

4. Alternately, you may wish to display your shadow box on a desk or shelf. This works well, too, but again, light is the main issue. Be sure the box is facing a generous source of light.

5. If what you are displaying won't be harmed by more intense light, consider adding cabinet display lights to the underside of the top of your shadow box.

Tips & Warnings

• Shadow boxes look great in groups. Consider displaying two or three or more shadow boxes together.

• If you are displaying something that could become damaged from too much light, avoid cabinet display lighting or mounting the box directly facing a light or window.