Celebrating your favourite moments - and the people in them - can feel tricky; nothing ever feels quite enough. A good starting point, though? Box frames. You might have seen them gaining popularity lately, but what exactly is a box frame, and how do you use one at home? Here’s the simple, no-fuss guide.
So, what is a box frame and how you can use them?
Box frames (often called shadow box frames) work like standard photo frames but with a clever twist. There’s extra space between the backing and the glass, so you can display 3D objects - anything from Scrabble tiles and sea shells to children’s Lego builds and even football shirts. Box frames from Rinkit have an impressive depth of 3.5cm, giving you room to get creative without looking bulky.
That extra depth lets you play with layers, add a sense of theatre, and cast gentle shadows for a gallery-style finish. Create a statement wall with multiple box frames, each arranged a little differently for a dynamic, collected look.
Of course, it still needs to suit your space. Box frames come in a range of sizes and colours, so your display can complement your décor - from pared-back Scandi to bold, modern schemes. Browse our Box Photo Frames here to find the right fit.
The Classic Set Up
A clean, gallery-style look that keeps your photo front and centre.
The straightforward answer to “what is a box frame and how to use one” starts here: a strong frame profile that makes your image sing.
Use it as a classic photo frame. Keep your picture front and centre with bold lines that frame - rather than compete with - the subject.
For both wall-mounted and freestanding displays, use this simple order: Glass | Picture | Spacer. Your photo sits at the front, crisp and confident.
The Striking Depth
Set the image back to create subtle shadow and a stage-like effect.
Want something a little more dramatic? Set the picture back to create a soft shadow and a sense of depth - almost like a mini stage.
Arrange the contents as Spacer | Glass | Picture. This pulls the image away from the front, catching the light differently through the day. It’s understated, but it stops people in their tracks.
The Crafter’s Choice
From keepsakes to mini masterpieces - if it matters to you, it belongs here.
When someone asks, “what is a box frame?”, this is often what they picture: curated keepsakes and creative arrangements. Think Scrabble letters spelling your family names, a Lego scene that tells a story, concert lanyards, shells from a special beach, or that signed football shirt you’ve guarded for years.
Use Glass | Spacer | Picture. The rear cavity leaves room for your treasures. For a neat finish, mount items on a sheet of card or fabric first - your composition stays put, and the background becomes part of the design.
For ideas and inspiration, take a look at our Thinking Outside the Box Blog.
The Mount
A mount adds breathing room, balance, and a smart, gallery-ready look.
You don’t fully know the answer to “what is a box frame and how to use one” until you’ve tried mounts. Pair your frame with a mount to add space around the image - like a border that lets the subject breathe.
Choose a slim mount for a delicate look or a wider mount for impact. Colour matters, too: crisp white for modern minimalism, charcoal for drama, or a soft neutral to echo tones in the image. Beyond style, a mount helps protect against condensation and keeps prints in better condition over time.
Deep Box Frames
Extra depth (around 6cm) for bold arrangements and small objects.
What is a deep box frame? Deep Box Frames are a roomier take on the classic - almost twice as deep at about 6cm. The effect is stronger, but the rules are the same: go classic, push the picture back, try the Crafter’s Choice, or add a mount for polish.
That extra space also lets you perch small décor - think mini plants or trinkets - on top or nestle them within the frame for a curated vignette.
Box Frame FAQs
► What can I put in a box frame?
Photographs, postcards, medals, ticket stubs, baby shoes, pressed flowers, small toys, and textiles. If it’s lightweight and meaningful, it likely works. You know what? A consistent colour palette ties everything together beautifully.
► Glass or acrylic - what’s best?
Glass feels premium and resists scratches; acrylic is lighter and safer in busy family spaces. Both look smart - choose based on where the frame will live.
► Any quick hanging tips?
Use appropriate wall fixings, check for level, and consider a grid or staggered arrangement. Leave consistent spacing between frames for that gallery finish.
Hopefully this clears up what a box frame is and how you can use one to give your favourite images - and objects - the care they deserve. Try each layout, see what suits your space, and enjoy the process.
You can browse all our Box Photo Frames here!
When you’ve created something special, tag us on Instagram @Rinkithome or use the hashtag #rinkithome - we’d love to see.
Thanks for reading,
The Rinkit Team
