Fancy-four-flap box

Here is a little box I made based on a simple archival four-flap, or phase box. I wanted to create something more elegant than a standard box, and without the fuss of cotton fore-edge ties. It was made with just a few hand tools and requires minimal gluing; I am quite pleased with the results!

The success of this box – like all boxes – relies on two main factors: accurate measuring and cutting, and good quality materials. The paper used was No. 80 Zaansche Bord, a hand-made 65% cotton 35% hemp/flax paper from the Netherlands. The box is fastened with a tongue and a slot which is laced through the cover. The slot sits neatly within the fore-edge, so doesn’t abrade the book.

 

 


Arthur Green, July 2019