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And some shadowboxes can reflect a distinctive moment in one’s life such as being in the military, working on a political campaign, or living and working abroad.Ĭareful planning and design of even a smaller 11x14 shadow box is important.
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Some shadow box frames are even made to be easily accessible, in case you wanted to continuously use the objects when it’s not in the frame, such as: a musical instrument, fishing pole, or rifle. It also serves as a means for preservation for valuable, precious, and sentimental objects which would otherwise sit in poor storage or be susceptible to inadvertent damage. People tend to use shadow boxes to tell a story or to remind the owner/viewer of distinct memories or experiences. For instance, you don’t want to make your shadow box too deep because the objects inside will be cast under a literal “shadow” which will make the objects hard to view and experience. The design also helps to make sure the objects are optimally displayed in terms of getting the proper lighting, spacing, and color. The design of a typical 16x20 shadow box can be just as important as the physical structure of the frame, when considering the overall theme and feel of the objects being portrayed. Most shadow boxes tend to have many layers, which helps the objects sit properly in place, and to reassure everything stays secured if the shadowbox is moved frequently or incorrectly. The most important consideration is choosing the proper frame for a given project which can vary based on your structural needs and design.Ī given frame needs to have all the required dimensions (width, height, and depth) to properly hold the necessary components and the proper weight or girth to support the entire package. Shadow boxes require most of the same elements as a custom frame job, with just a few additional components and considerations. Modern designs typically include MDF bases affixed with an acrylic vitrine ideal for use in high-end galleries or museums.
Shadow box series#
Traditional varieties are constructed from a square or rectangular wooden frame, which can be arranged in a series or as a standalone fixture. Shadow box frames are generally available in two varieties, with or without non-reflective glass, however, either of the two are a surefire way to add a touch of style and elegance to any room's decorum. Shadow box enclosures are ideal for protecting precious heirlooms or keepsakes from being affected by air, dust, humidity, or damage.
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and pretty much anything else unless it’s extremely heavy. Many common objects that are framed in mounted shadow box displays are: If one does not take proper care in designing the shadow box, the artworks behind the glazing are susceptible to deterioration and damage. The shadow box also serves as protective encasement for these precious objects to preserve the integrity of the objects/artworks for many years to come. Not to be confused with the sport of shadow boxing, these collectible display cases still pack a powerful punch! Also known as a glass-enclosed display case, a well-made shadow box makes an excellent home for historic memorabilia, personal awards, art, or sentimental objects. When you have a precious object or a series of trinkets and medals, a shadow box is a great idea to bring all those elements together to convey a common theme.
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Making a shadow box display frame is a multi-step process involving structural engineering, thematic design, object mounting, and sustainability. Shadow Box Frames: Preserving Memories and Experiences
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