The pieces of the box: Also called a portfolio box, this box is made of 11 pieces of acid-free Davey board. Though I occasionally cut this box myself, I often rely on a kit from Hollanders If you're interested in trying one yourself, Hollanders sells an illustrated, easy-to-follow instruction booklet (free with the purchase of three kits). I still refer to mine as a refresher from time to time.

Gluing the basic form: The top and bottom sections of the box are glued on three sides, using a thick archival PVA (polyvinyl acetate) glue that is heavier and more substantial than the thinner glue used in other parts of the process. Positioning the pieces is tricky. The thicker glue takes longer to dry and allows you time to manipulate and correct the assembly of the pieces.

The top and bottom assembled: By now, the 11 pieces have been reduced to 5: The bottom box, the top box, the lids, and the spine.

The paper and book cloth: Once the box pieces are assembled, it's time to cut the paper and book cloth that will cover the board. In this case, I'm using Japanese yuzen and Japanese silk book-cloth

Cutting the paper and book cloth: I've made templates for each piece of cover material. This makes cutting faster and more accurate.

The pieces of paper and cloth: Thirteen pieces of paper and book cloth are needed to cover the box. Cutting is done on a self-healing cutting mat (available from any craft or fabric store). Some people use an exacto knife for cutting. Also a quilter, I have more control with the rotary cutter I use for quilting. Gluing is done with an archival PVA glue that is approximately the consistency of Elmer's glue.

The lid and spine: The lid and spine are assembled to create a case for the box

Assembling the case and boxes: Using thick glue once again, the top and bottom boxes are attached to the lid, carefully checking the positioning.

Weighting and waiting: I'm sure glad I didn't throw out those old ankle weights, since the bars have turned out to be just the thing for the last step, which is to patiently wait 8-10 hours while the thick glue dries.

Finished! It's a clamshell box. Anyone who knows me knows that I'm able to find a way to mention my lovely granddaughter into any conversation that lasts for more than 45 seconds. And here she is saying, "Oy vey, grandma! What a lot of work!"