How to Make a Box That Reflects Shadows
A box that reflects shadows is called a "shadow box." A shadow box is basically a deep framed box that is made to hold and display memorabilia, arts, and collectible items. Shadow boxes do not necessarily have to be in the shape of a typical "box." They can be made in a variety of shapes, such as octagons, rectangles and squares. Making a shadow box is not that difficult of a task, however it does require some carpentry skillsm such as using various saws for cutting.
Things You'll Need
- 1 2-by-4 board
- Saw
- Pencil
- Wood glue
- 8 5/8 by 10 5/8 piece of glass
- Damp paper towel
- Picture frame clamp
Instructions
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Create a frame for your shadow box by cutting two 8-inch boards and two 10-inch boards from a 2-by-4 piece of lumber, using a saw. Draw a small 45-degree angle diagonal line at each end of your wood pieces using a pencil. These lines should start at the outer corner and point inward.
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Set your miter saw to 45 and cut each piece of wood at each area that you marked with your pencil. Set your pieces together to make sure that they will fit. Set your saw to cut three-eighths of an inch deep and a half-inch in from the front edge of your frame and make your cuts.
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3
Apply a generous amount of wood glue to the miter ends of your frame pieces. Attach each piece of the frame to your piece of glass one edge at a time by placing the glass into the notched area of the wood. Place the picture frame clamp over your assembled frame and tighten it to hold the frame in place.
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Clean off any excess glue by wiping it with a damp paper towel and let the frame sit for 24 hours. Unclamp your frame. Cut a piece of backer board to fit the back of your frame and place double-sided tape around the back edge of your frame.
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Place your display items into your shadow box and attach the backer board to the double-sided tape and press on it slightly to help the backer board adhere to the tape.
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Tips & Warnings
If you cut off too much when cutting your 45-degree angles, simply cut a new piece of board and start over.
References
- Photo Credit easter egg box image by .shock from Fotolia.com
