Custom Display Cases – The Ultimate Guide | Kayendee Plastics

With thousands of custom cases built, we’ve seen firsthand what works, what doesn’t, and the common mistakes people make when designing their display cases. Whether you’re a collector, a business owner, setting up an exhibition, or simply looking to showcase a much-loved piece in your home, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to create the perfect display.

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As you can see, there’s a lot to think about when designing a display case. If you’re unsure where to start, get in touch—we’re happy to help you design the perfect case for your needs.

There is so much more to designing a case than just “fitting the object in a box.”

The right display case balances presentation, protection, and the finer details that elevate your piece.

If you’ve decided that a custom-built display case is the right choice, it’s time to focus on the details that will bring your vision to life. With every case we craft, we see the impact that thoughtful design can have—from enhancing presentation to ensuring long-term protection.

From size and materials to positioning and lighting, here’s what we recommend you consider when designing a display case that truly showcases and protects your piece.

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.

Check out our helpful guide on sizing your custom case perfectly.

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.

The materials used in your display case play a huge role in durability, weight, security, and aesthetics. Whether you’re debating between glass vs acrylic, considering a solid base material, or exploring custom backdrops, choosing the right combination of materials ensures that your display is both functional and visually stunning.

• Acrylic vs. Glass
  • Acrylic – The preferred choice for most applications – it’s lightweight, impact-resistant, and offers better colour clarity than standard glass, making it ideal for clear, unobstructed displays.
  • Glass – Offers a classic, high-end look but is heavier and more fragile. It’s best suited for smaller, high-security displays, such as museum artefacts and fine jewellery collections

• Bases
  • Timber – Ideal for heritage pieces, luxury displays, and warm, classic aesthetics
  • Acrylic – Minimalist & modern, blending seamlessly into contemporary spaces
  • Metal – Used in larger builds for added strength and durability or an ultra-modern feel

• Backdrops (integrated or inserted)
  • Acrylic – Comes in a wide range of finishes, including clear, frosted, coloured (gloss or matte), mirrored, translucent, and even glitter
  • Timber – Provides more texture and depth than acrylic, offering a natural, warm look
  • Printed – Logos, artwork, or textures can be printed directly onto acrylic to create a branded or themed display

If you’re unsure which option is right for you, we’re happy to help you choose the best fit.

For high-value items, delicate pieces, or regulated collections (e.g., firearms, rare artefacts, signed memorabilia), security isn’t just about keeping your display intact—it’s about peace of mind. Whether you’re safeguarding a priceless collectable, protecting a fragile heirloom, or ensuring compliance with regulations, here’s what to consider:

• Locking Mechanisms

Adding locks can help prevent unauthorised access to your display. Options include:

TDP Display supply professional and honest service.

• • Cam locks – A discreet but effective way to secure your case
  • Sliding bolt locks – Used for larger cases requiring added security
  • Keyed or digital locks – Often required for regulated items (e.g., collectable firearms)

• Dust & Tamper Protection

A well-sealed display case keeps your items free from dust, fingerprints, and accidental damage.

• • Sealed acrylic panels – Reduce dust build-up and prevent airborne contaminants from affecting fragile pieces
  • Tamper-proof enclosures – For high-traffic areas, such as museums, galleries, or retail spaces, a secure, sealed case prevents interference
• Wall & Floor Mounting

For large and tall cases or regulated displays, securing your case to a wall, countertop, or floor can prevent tipping, theft, or unwanted movement.

• • Fixed mounts – Required for some regulations, especially for weapon displays
  • Weighted bases – Add stability to freestanding displays while maintaining flexibility for repositioning

Not sure which security features are right for your display? Our team can recommend solutions tailored to your specific needs and give you peace of mind.

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

• Daylight (-K) – 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 (-K) – Enhances the richness of wood, vintage displays, and heritage pieces by giving them a soft, inviting glow
• Cool light (-K) – 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.

When it comes to showcasing and protecting your collectibles, the right display case can make all the difference. We get hundreds of questions from collectors, sports fans, and hobbyists about how to choose, care for, and customize their display solutions. That’s why we put together this in-depth Q&A session with our display case experts — so you have the answers you need, all in one place.

Q: What is the best material for display cases?

A: Acrylic is the gold standard for modern display cases. Here’s why:

• Crystal-Clear Clarity: Acrylic rivals glass in clarity but without the heavy green tint found in most glass cases.
• Durability: Acrylic is up to 17× stronger than glass and highly impact-resistant — ideal for homes with kids, pets, or high foot traffic.
• Lightweight: Easy to move, mount, and rearrange as your collection grows.
• Safety: Unlike glass, acrylic won’t shatter into dangerous shards if dropped.
• UV Protection: Our premium acrylic blocks harmful UV rays that can fade autographs or discolor fabrics over time.

Bottom line: If you care about preservation, clarity, and safety, acrylic is the superior choice over glass or cheap plastics.

Q: How do I choose the right size display case?

A: Start by carefully measuring your item — height, width, depth, and any base or stand it sits on. Add 1–2 inches of clearance on all sides for airflow and a clean presentation.

???? Explore our size-specific display cases to find the ideal match for your memorabilia.

Q: How do I clean and maintain an acrylic display case?

A: Proper cleaning keeps your case crystal-clear for years. Avoid ammonia-based glass cleaners — they can cloud or damage acrylic. Instead, use a specialized acrylic cleaner like the NOVUS Acrylic Cleaning Kit we recommend. Always wipe with a soft, non-abrasive microfiber cloth to prevent scratches and keep your display looking showroom-fresh.

Q: What makes Better Display Cases different?

A: We don’t just sell display cases — we help collectors tell their stories. Here’s what sets us apart:

• ???? Premium Materials: Museum-grade acrylic for perfect clarity and maximum durability.
• ???? Precision Craftsmanship: Each case is made with flawless edges and polished finishes.
• ???? Custom Solutions: Need a unique size or style? We build cases to your specifications.
• ???? Collector-Focused Service: Our team helps you choose the right case and supports you after your purchase.

Q: Can I customize my display case?

A: Absolutely! From base colors and risers, we offer multiple customization options. You can even add engraved nameplates to tell the story behind each item — turning your display into a true conversation starter.

Takeaway: Display Like a Pro

Whether you’re just starting your collection or you’ve been building it for years, the right display solution protects your investment, elevates your space, and keeps your memories alive. Acrylic is the clear winner for collectors who want durability, safety, and museum-quality presentation — and Better Display Cases is the trusted source for the very best on the market.

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