The #clamshell (aka drop-spine or Solander) #box is used to protect rare, valuable or fragile books. There are many designs for this type of box, and many construction methods for the different designs. I like this design because it is simple but very effective. It is not based on a single persons design, but I was originally taught how to make a Solander box by John Tonkin in Canberra, and in preparation for making this video I reviewed Sage Reynolds videos on this subject, and I adopted at least one of his practices. Part 1 is making the trays or boxes and covering the walls. In part 2 we'll finish lining the boxes and make the case and put it all together.