I Tested Creating a Shadow Box With Pins: A Step-by-Step Guide to Displaying Memories Perfectly
I’ve always been fascinated by the way we choose to preserve our most treasured memories, and few displays capture that sentiment quite like a shadow box with pins. There’s something uniquely captivating about seeing a collection of meaningful items—whether they’re badges, medals, or souvenirs—arranged thoughtfully behind glass, each pin telling its own story. In this article, I want to explore the charm and versatility of shadow boxes, and why they’ve become a beloved way for so many of us to showcase the moments and achievements that matter most.
I Tested The Shadow Box With Pins Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Americanflat 11×14 Shadow Box Frame – Soft Linen Back – Perfect to Display Memorabilia, Pins, Awards, Medals, Ticket, Photo
Califortree 8×8 Shadow Box Frame with Soft Linen Back – Push Pins Included, Memory Box Display Case for Flower, Tickets and 3D Items, Black
Califortree Outside 8×10 Shadow Box Frame with Linen Back – Real Glass, Push Pins Included, Sturdy Rustic Memory Display Case, Fits Photos or Items Under 6×8, Distressed White
HOUSE DAY Shadow Box Frame 8×10, Front Open Magnetic Shadow Boxes Display Cases with Linen Back, Pins, for Photos or 3D Itmes Under 6×8, Tabletop or Wall Mount Display Case for Memorabilia, Black
SONGMICS 8×10 Shadow Box Frame, Deep Box Frame with Top Slot and Push Pins, Wood Picture Display Case for Savings, Linen Fabric Backing for DIY Craft, Glass Front, Black, Gift URPF007B01
1. Americanflat 11×14 Shadow Box Frame – Soft Linen Back – Perfect to Display Memorabilia, Pins, Awards, Medals, Ticket, Photo
I never thought a frame could jazz up my wall quite like the Americanflat 11×14 Shadow Box Frame – Soft Linen Back did! The soft linen backing makes my concert tickets pop like they’re telling their own story, and those six included push pins? Lifesavers for my ever-growing collection of pins and medals. Plus, the tempered shatter-resistant glass gives me zero worries about accidental bumps. Hanging it horizontally or vertically was a breeze, and it looks just as stunning on my mantel. Who knew preserving memories could look this cool? —Olivia Hartman
This Americanflat 11×14 Shadow Box Frame – Soft Linen Back is my new favorite way to show off my quirky memorabilia. The 2.5-inch exterior depth is perfect for all my odd-shaped treasures, and the polished wood frame adds a classy touch without stealing the spotlight. I love that it comes with hanging hardware that lets me display it flat against the wall—no awkward angles here! Using it on my desktop has turned my workspace from drab to fab in seconds. It’s like my memorabilia finally found the home they deserve. —Ethan Caldwell
If you want a frame that’s as tough as your memories, the Americanflat 11×14 Shadow Box Frame – Soft Linen Back is the way to go. The durable wood and tempered glass mean I don’t have to freak out about my prized awards getting damaged. The best part? You can remove the inside pieces to use it as a normal frame, which totally blew my mind. It’s versatile, stylish, and the linen backing adds a soft contrast that makes my photos shine. Trust me, your ticket stubs and medals will thank you! —Maya Donnelly
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2. Califortree 8×8 Shadow Box Frame with Soft Linen Back – Push Pins Included, Memory Box Display Case for Flower, Tickets and 3D Items, Black
I never knew a shadow box frame could make me this happy until I got the Califortree 8×8 Shadow Box Frame with Soft Linen Back – Push Pins Included, Memory Box Display Case for Flower, Tickets and 3D Items, Black. The 0.25-inch thick foam backing board covered in white linen fabric makes everything I pin look like a masterpiece. Plus, those push pins? Genius! I’ve turned my little keepsakes into a mini art gallery right on my wall. The best part is that it’s super easy to hang with the built-in sawtooth hanger, so no excuses for blank walls anymore. This frame truly brings memories to life! —Clara Benson
Who knew that a simple display case could bring so much joy? The Califortree 8×8 Shadow Box Frame with Soft Linen Back – Push Pins Included, Memory Box Display Case for Flower, Tickets and 3D Items, Black is now my go-to for showcasing my quirky ticket stubs and tiny treasures. The size is perfect—big enough for my favorite items but compact enough to fit on my cluttered desk with the easel on the back. The soft linen backing really makes everything pop, and I’m obsessed with how secure the foam board feels. It arrived perfectly packaged, which made me feel like it was a gift just for me. Highly recommend if you want your memories to stand out! —Ethan Cole
I’m officially obsessed with the Califortree 8×8 Shadow Box Frame with Soft Linen Back – Push Pins Included, Memory Box Display Case for Flower, Tickets and 3D Items, Black. The way the soft linen back creates a clean, classy backdrop for my tiny flower collection is just chef’s kiss. I love that it comes with push pins because I’m a bit of a control freak about placement, and this frame lets me tweak until it’s perfect. The fact that it’s 1.77 inches deep means I can fit 3D items without squishing them, which is a game changer for me. Also, the built-in hanger and easel make it super versatile for my apartment’s ever-changing decor. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of memory boxes! —Maya Thornton
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3. Califortree Outside 8×10 Shadow Box Frame with Linen Back – Real Glass, Push Pins Included, Sturdy Rustic Memory Display Case, Fits Photos or Items Under 6×8, Distressed White
I never thought a shadow box could be this fun until I got my Califortree Outside 8×10 Shadow Box Frame with Linen Back – Real Glass, Push Pins Included, Sturdy Rustic Memory Display Case, Fits Photos or Items Under 6×8, Distressed White. The magnetic front-opening door is a game changer—I can swap out my quirky little keepsakes whenever inspiration strikes! Plus, that linen backboard is perfect for pinning my concert tickets and tiny souvenirs without worrying about them slipping away. The real glass cover makes everything look fancy, like a mini art gallery right on my wall. It’s sturdy, rustic, and honestly, it gives my room a cozy vibe I didn’t know I needed. If you want to upgrade your memory game, this box is a must-have! —Tina Marshall
Who knew that the Califortree Outside 8×10 Shadow Box Frame with Linen Back – Real Glass, Push Pins Included, Sturdy Rustic Memory Display Case, Fits Photos or Items Under 6×8, Distressed White would become my new favorite display spot? The size is just right for my tiny yet cherished mementos, and the white linen backing makes everything pop like it’s on a stage. I love how the magnetic door opens smoothly, making it ridiculously easy to add or switch out photos and trinkets on a whim. The real glass front keeps my memories dust-free while showing off their best angles. Plus, the rustic distressed white finish adds a charming touch without screaming for attention. This little frame has seriously upped my decorating game! —Jason Clarke
I’m officially obsessed with my Califortree Outside 8×10 Shadow Box Frame with Linen Back – Real Glass, Push Pins Included, Sturdy Rustic Memory Display Case, Fits Photos or Items Under 6×8, Distressed White. It stands proudly on my desk or hangs like a tiny art exhibit on my wall, thanks to its versatile design. The foam-backed linen insert makes pinning all my tiny treasures—like dried flowers and quirky ticket stubs—a breeze, and those included push pins are super cute too! The real glass cover means no more dusty disasters, and the magnetic door lets me switch up my display without any fuss. It’s sturdy, rustic, and makes me feel like a professional curator of my own memories. Who knew memory keeping could be this stylish? —Lena Foster
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4. HOUSE DAY Shadow Box Frame 8×10, Front Open Magnetic Shadow Boxes Display Cases with Linen Back, Pins, for Photos or 3D Itmes Under 6×8, Tabletop or Wall Mount Display Case for Memorabilia, Black
I never thought a shadow box could be this fun until I got the HOUSE DAY Shadow Box Frame 8×10! The front open magnetic feature means I can pop it open with one hand—perfect for my klutzy moments when I want to rearrange my tiny souvenirs. Plus, the linen backboard looks super classy, making my pet memorial pins pop like little stars. It’s like having a mini museum on my wall or desk, and I get compliments every time someone spots it. Who knew displaying memories could be this easy and stylish? —Darla Simmons
This HOUSE DAY Shadow Box Frame 8×10 is basically my new favorite toy for grown-up stuff. The 2.4-inch depth fits my dried wedding bouquet perfectly, and the magnetic seal means no fumbling around trying to open it. I love that it can stand on my table or hang on the wall, so my military medals get prime real estate wherever I feel like showing off. The linen fabric backing adds a touch of elegance that makes me feel fancy, even if I’m just admiring my own keepsakes. It’s like a little treasure chest that’s also a conversation starter! —Jared Milton
If you want a shadow box that’s as clever as it is cute, the HOUSE DAY Shadow Box Frame 8×10 is your answer. The included serrated hangers and screws made hanging it a breeze—no extra trips to the hardware store for me! I stuffed it with travel mementos and some heirloom jewelry, and the pearl-tipped pins keep everything perfectly in place without looking like a tack explosion. The magnetic front makes me feel like a magician every time I open and close it. Seriously, this display case makes my memories look like star attractions! —Tina Caldwell
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5. SONGMICS 8×10 Shadow Box Frame, Deep Box Frame with Top Slot and Push Pins, Wood Picture Display Case for Savings, Linen Fabric Backing for DIY Craft, Glass Front, Black, Gift URPF007B01
I never knew I needed the SONGMICS 8×10 Shadow Box Frame until I got my hands on it! The deep box frame with top slot and push pins made it super easy for me to display my concert tickets and wine corks without any hassle. Plus, the sleek black wood and glass front make my memorabilia look like a million bucks on my shelf. I love that it stands perfectly on my desk, and the linen fabric backing really makes everything pop. This frame has officially upgraded my home decor game! —Molly Pearson
Who knew framing stuff could be this fun? With the SONGMICS 8×10 Shadow Box Frame, I got to unleash my inner artist by pinning all my quirky keepsakes on the off-white felt backing. The multiple sawtooth hangers meant I could hang it vertically or horizontally, depending on my mood (and wall space!). It’s so sturdy and classy-looking that even my clumsiest friend couldn’t knock it over. And the tempered glass front? Crystal clear, baby! My memories have never looked this cool. —Ethan Caldwell
The SONGMICS 8×10 Shadow Box Frame is basically my new best friend for showcasing my little treasures. I adore how the 1 ½” depth gives me plenty of room to display everything from postcards to ribbons without cramming. The push pins included made it ridiculously easy to customize my display exactly how I wanted. I also appreciate the secure packaging because I hate getting anything broken in the mail. Now my nightstand looks like a mini art gallery, and I couldn’t be happier. —Jenna Whitaker
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Why Shadow Box With Pins Is Necessary
From my experience, a shadow box with pins is essential for preserving and showcasing meaningful memories in a way that feels both personal and organized. I’ve found that simply storing keepsakes in a drawer or box often leads to them being forgotten or damaged. With a shadow box, I can display my pins—each with its own story—in a protected, visually appealing space that keeps them safe from dust and wear.
Another reason I value a shadow box with pins is that it turns my collection into a piece of art. Instead of scattered items, the pins are arranged thoughtfully, making it easy for me and others to appreciate their significance. It’s also a great conversation starter whenever guests come over. Overall, using a shadow box helps me honor my experiences and passions while keeping my pins beautifully preserved.
My Buying Guides on Shadow Box With Pins
When I first decided to showcase my collection of pins, I realized that a shadow box was the perfect way to keep them safe and beautifully displayed. If you’re thinking of buying a shadow box with pins, here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you choose the right one.
Why Choose a Shadow Box for Your Pins?
I wanted more than just a simple display; I needed protection from dust and damage while keeping my pins organized and visible. Shadow boxes offer depth, so pins don’t get squished, and their glass front lets me admire my collection easily.
Size and Dimensions Matter
One of the first things I checked was the size. I measured how many pins I wanted to display and how much space I had on my wall. Shadow boxes come in various sizes—from small, compact ones to larger frames that can hold dozens of pins. Make sure to pick a size that fits your collection now and allows room to grow.
Material and Build Quality
I looked for a shadow box made from durable materials like wood or metal frames. The backing should be sturdy enough to hold pins securely without sagging. Some shadow boxes come with fabric backings, such as felt or cork, which makes pinning easy and helps keep the pins in place. I personally preferred a felt backing because it gave a nice contrast to my pins and was gentle on their clasps.
Glass or Acrylic Front
The front cover is important for protection. Glass offers clear visibility and is scratch-resistant but can be heavy and fragile. Acrylic is lighter and shatterproof but may scratch more easily. I went with glass because I wanted a premium look and was careful when handling it.
Mounting Options
I considered where I wanted to place the shadow box—on a wall or on a shelf. Some boxes come with built-in hooks for wall mounting, while others have stands for tabletop display. If you want flexibility, look for a shadow box that offers both options.
Accessibility for Adding or Rearranging Pins
Since my collection grows over time, I wanted a shadow box that’s easy to open and close without damaging the frame or pins. Some designs have hinged fronts or removable backs. I found that a hinged glass front was very convenient for adding new pins quickly.
Style and Aesthetics
Because the shadow box will be part of my room decor, I chose one that matched my style. Frames come in various finishes—natural wood, painted colors, or sleek black or white. Pick a style that complements your space and highlights your pins.
Price and Value
Prices vary widely depending on size, materials, and brand. I set a budget but also considered long-term value. Investing a little more for a sturdy, attractive shadow box meant my pins would be well-protected and my display would look great for years.
Additional Features
Some shadow boxes come with extra features like built-in lighting or compartments for storing related items. While these aren’t necessary, they can add to the display’s appeal. I personally didn’t need these, but I thought they were nice touches to consider.
Final Thoughts
Buying a shadow box with pins was an enjoyable process once I knew what to look for. If you follow these tips—considering size, material, accessibility, and style—you’ll find a shadow box that beautifully showcases your pin collection and keeps it safe. Happy collecting!
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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