Custom Display Cases –
The Ultimate Guide

When designing a case, the size of your object is the starting point, but the right amount of clearance is what makes the difference—ensuring the display is balanced, protected, and allows for any additional elements.

• Breathing room around the object – Too tight, and the display looks cramped. Too much space, and the object can feel lost. Balancing proportions is key to a stand-out presentation.
• Space for accessories – Consider room for plaques, product descriptions, or additional elements that enhance the display.
• Room for future expansion – If your collection grows, will pieces be displayed together in one case or housed in individual cases? Planning ahead ensures a seamless presentation.

Where will your display case be positioned? Just like proportioning the case to the object, it’s important to consider how it fits within its environment.

• Desktop/Tabletop Displays – Perfect for items like architectural models, Lego Set builds (Dioramas, Bignettes, Vignettes, UCSs, MOCs), action figures, books, art & sculptures, and medium scale model cars. Make sure there’s enough space around the case so it doesn’t feel crowded, and avoid placing it too close to the edge where it could be knocked over.
• Freestanding/Floor Cases – Ideal for larger displays like musical instruments, trophies, costumes, large dolls, or retail products. Stability is key—consider weight distribution and a sturdy base to prevent tipping.
• Wall-Mounted Displays – Great for sports & music memorabilia, framed collections, mineral collections, collections of small object (such as matchbox cars), awards, and medals. Pay attention to how far the case extends from the wall and whether nearby furniture could impact visibility or create obstacles for foot traffic.

Of course there are many ways of displaying objects and you can choose any of these display formats – it depends on your preferred aesthetic, space and budget.

A great display case isn’t just about looks—it should complement the object inside while enhancing its function and presence. The shape you choose impacts how your item is viewed, protected, and integrated into its space. Here’s how to make the right choice:

• Rectangular or square cases – The most versatile and cost-effective option, these cases suit everything from personal collections to commercial displays. Ideal for Lego set builds, scale models, family heirlooms, and counter-top retail displays, their structured design makes them easy to arrange in homes, offices, or shop spaces. Their simple, clean lines provide maximum visibility while being budget-friendly, making them the go-to choice for most display needs.
• Hexagonal or octagonal cases – A striking choice for statement displays, these cases offer a multi-angle viewing experience. They are particularly suited for period and historical pieces, large single crystal displays, and museum exhibits, where the light refraction from the angled panels enhances reflections and visibility. Typically taller in design, they are often used for large-scale builds, where the additional craftsmanship and cost are offset by the sheer presence of the display.
• Round cases – Designed for delicate or high-impact visual displays, these cases allow for 360-degree viewing with a soft, uninterrupted presentation. Popular for preserved wedding bouquets, fine jewellery, and hospitality applications like cake displays, they add a luxurious, gallery-style aesthetic. They are also ideal for “underwater” themed displays—such as watches, cameras, pumps, and filtration equipment—where a sealed, high-clarity enclosure is essential for showcasing functionality and effects.

If you’re unsure which shape best complements your piece and space. We can guide you through all the options to find the perfect fit for both aesthetics and function – and stay within your budget.

Choosing the right lighting ensures your display is well-lit without causing damage to delicate materials.

• LED Spotlights – Ideal for focused illumination, perfect for highlighting specific details on objects like jewellery, sculptures, or rare artefacts
• Edge-Lit Panels – A sleek, modern way to create even illumination across the display without harsh shadows
• UV-Filtered LEDs – Protect sensitive items (e.g., signed memorabilia, historical documents) from fading over time

Don’t overlook the colour of your lighting – it can make a huge difference to your display

• Daylight (5000-6500K) – The most versatile and natural-looking lighting, ideal for most displays, as it offers true-to-life colour rendering without distorting tones. Recommended for art pieces, museum artefacts, sports memorabilia, and product displays
• Warm light (2700-3500K) – Enhances the richness of wood, vintage displays, and heritage pieces by giving them a soft, inviting glow
• Cool light (4000-5000K) – Best for crystal & mineral displays, technological products, luxury watches, and high-contrast modern presentations, where sharper light improves clarity and detail

With the right lighting, your display can go from ordinary to extraordinary. If you need guidance on selecting the best lighting for your case, we’re happy to help.

Adding accessories can elevate the look and functionality of your display, ensuring that your piece is presented in the best possible way.

• Custom Stands & Risers – Provide added depth and dimension, perfect for multi-piece displays, books, figurines, trophies, and layered arrangements
• Plinths & Pedestals – Ideal for museum pieces, sculptures, and high-end retail displays, offering a clean, elevated presentation
• Plaques & Labels – Laser-engraved title or descriptive information can add context, storytelling, or branding
• Turntables & Rotating Bases – Great for 360-degree viewing, often used for model cars, fine jewellery, or high-detail collectables
• Dust Seals – For delicate or intricate pieces that require extra protection from dust and environmental factors

A well-designed display isn’t just about the case – it’s about the entire presentation. Small additions such as those mentioned above can add depth, context, and character, ensuring your item is showcased at its very best.

For businesses, museums, and retail environments, adding branded elements to a display can reinforce messaging and attract attention.

• Company logos – Integrated into the base or backdrop for a polished, professional touch
• Custom colour schemes – Aligning materials and lighting with brand aesthetics
• Interactive elements – QR codes linking to product details, artist bios, or historical context

Looking to create a display that not only protects but also promotes your brand? We’ll help design a custom case that aligns with your branding, location, and presentation needs.