How It's Made: Reversible Collapsible Boxes

The crafting process behind our reversible collapsible boxes is one-of-a-kind, even for Métier's standards. In developing our home collection, we thought about ways to incorporate movement and the ability for each item to easily pack away.

The trays come in three different sizes, or in a set of three, and were designed for motion. Each box reversible as well as collapsible to ensure a smooth journey. Here, 6 steps on how it's made.

1. The Precise Cutting

First we cut the leather using a fustella, a cutting die, to ensure its accuracy.

2. The Magnets

32 magnets are inserted by hand on each side to ensure the boxes are reversible and stay intact when folded.

3. The Canaletto Construction

Between the panels of leather, we have created a "canaletto" construction. This literally means small canal, or channel, in Italian and allows the leather to fold both ways without creasing.

4. Heat Sealed Seams

Then we heat sealed all edges using a process called rigatura.

5. Hand-Stitched in Place

We then hand stitch the magnets in place.

6. Hand-Painted Edges

Last but not least, we paint the edges of each box using our signature 3 step process. This creates a perfectly smooth and straight finish, like silk.