Strengthening the box

 The paper box needed strength so that it does not get squashed during transit. I had a few ideas on how to strengthen the box by making it from cardboard, inlaying the inside with card or metal. 

I decided to work with styrofoam to add protection to the piece and to give the box structure from the inside. I cut a slot for my piece to fit on its side instead of face-up as I found it easier to remove out of the styrofoam. I also cut finger spaces just to add some room to grip the piece when removing it.

The box kept its shape with the styrofoam, but it didn't want to stay closed, so I used a magnet to hold the box closed. I didn't want a magnet that would be too strong that might tear the paper and then my dad gave me a great idea to use a magnetic bookmark as they have the perfect strength to hold the paper. I had an old bookmark that had torn in two, so I used it. I attached one half in the flap of the lid and the other on the styrofoam inside the box and it seemed to hold pretty well, the dark edge on the edge of the box which can just be seen in the image below is actually the magnet.

Bowes, K., (2020). Paper box with styrofoam centre.