E4 Box with Hinge and Catch

I'd dabbled with hinges before attempting this project but never really made a good one. I made this box with two things in mind. One was the Registry and the other was the PMC Conference 2010 exhibition, Cultural Messages. I'm happy to say that the box has made it into the exhibition so if you're going to Purdue in July you can see it in the flesh.

I made this box with a mandala pattern on the top and on the inside bottom. The pattern was made using a photo polymer plate. I really like the hexagonal shape too. The sides have the centre portion of the mandala pattern attached as raised tiles.

Design - 4 out of 4
Hinge - 1 out of 2
Clasp - 2 out of 2
Craftsmanship - 2 out of 2

I was very happy with 9 out of 10. The comments from the assessors were all positive too. "A lovely object in which scale, size, function and finish come together to achieve a resolved object. The recurring use of the circular I Ching medallion is a good decision. They define the side panels and ties the piece together but does not overpower the piece. The catch is pretty well integrated and works well to keep the lid shut. The hinge is nicely tied into the esthetics of the box. It is slightly loose, but this is difficult to avoid with metal clay. The interior is well finished... admirably clean joins!" I was so pleased with these comments.

Here is the project description from the Masters Registry website:-

A box that includes a strong and properly functioning hinge and a working catch. Hinge and catch must include metal clay, though they might also include parts (e.g. tubing) made of sterling or other metals. The box can be made of metal clay entirely, or of another material. The size, shape, and degree of surface ornamentation are up to the maker.