Few words about apple boxes
Apple boxes are plywood made crates in definite dimensions. The origin of the term is not entirely clear, yet nowadays it is commonly used to determine a standard size wooden box. On every film set apple boxes are an essential tool that makes work easier and more comfortable.
This Apple Box tutorial will provide You with knowledge useful in small amateur studios and big Hollywood productions alike.
Use apple boxes
Apple boxes are a must have item on every set. Any sizes and number you own, you can use them almost for everything. Here are a few tips that show how powerful tool it is.
- Compensate actors' height
- Elevate scenography elements or cameras
- Simply sit and rest
- Support stand legs on loose & unstable grounds
- Fix lamps and other equipment to apple boxes
Actors and crew members leveling
Mounting lights and other equipment
Stabilizing on gritty, unstable grounds
Props leveling
Track leveling
Resting
Types of Apple Boxes
Apple Box Set
Industry standard – optimal set, that allows placement of any stack heights from 1″ to 27″ with an accuracy of 1 inch.
Box dimensions
- Full: 20” x12” x8” (50.8×30.5×20.3 cm), est weight: 11.2 lbs (5.1 kg)
- Half: 20” x12” x4” (50.8×30.5×10.2 cm), est weight: 7.9 lbs (3.6 kg)
- Quarter: 20” x12” x2” (50.8×30.5×5.1 cm), est weight: 6.4 lbs (3 kg)
- Eight (Pancake): 20” x12” x1” (50.8×30.5×2.5 cm), est weight: 4.4 lbs (2 kg)
Mini Apple Box Set
There is also a smaller version – “mini apple boxes”. They keep the same height and width as the standard ones, but the lenght is reduced by a half. You can stack 1″ to 19″ with 1 inch accuracy.
Box dimensions
- Mini Full: 10” x12” x8” (25.4 x 30.5 x 20.3 cm), est weight: 6,6 lbs (3,0 kg)
- Mini Half: 10” x12” x4” (25.4 x 30.5 x 10.2 cm), est weight: 4,6 lbs (2,1 kg)
- Mini Quarter: 10” x12” x2” (25.4 x 30.5 x 5.1 cm), est weight: 3,5 lbs (1,6 kg)
- Mini Eight (Pancake): 10” x12” x1” (25.4 x 30.5 x 2.5 cm), est weight: 2,6lbs (1,2 kg)
Apple Box Nested Set
A handy and convenient set with the largest box of nesting type. Allows to hide rest of the boxes inside and save storage space.
Box dimensions
- Open Full: 21.25” x13” x8” (54x33x20.3 cm), est weight: 12.1 lbs (5.5 kg)
- Half: 20” x12” x4” (50.8×30.5×10.2 cm), est weight: 7.9 lbs (3.6 kg)
- Quarter: 20” x12” x2” (50.8×30.5×5.1 cm), est weight: 6.4 lbs (3 kg)
- Eight (Pancake): 20” x12” x1” (50.8×30.5×2.5 cm), est weight: 4.4 lbs (2 kg)
Other types of Apple Boxes
The last type of apple boxes is a “nesting apple box”. It was invented and created primarily to save space. Dimensions of the largest apple box are modified to hide rest of the boxes inside. Nesting boxes are not standard in the world. Every manufacuter has their own style, set configuration and dimensions.
Apple Box Nested Set
Mini Apple Box Nested Set
Mini Apple Box Compact Set
Painting Apple boxes
Did you know that Apple Boxes can be painted? There are several types of paint that can be used, each with different properties. Here we present a quick overview:
Phthalate enamel
Creates a very durable coating, resistant to mechanical and atmospheric factors. One disadvantage is that it is drying slowly. Second layer can dry about 4-6 days.
Varnish
A protective and decorative painting of wood and wood products. Varnished paintings emphasize and retain the drawings of wood, protect wood against fungus and external factors . The coating is less durable than the phthalate paint, but it dries much faster.
Acrylic wood paints
Quite similar to phthalate enamel with the advantage that it dries faster. Outer coating may be a little less durable and less toxic. Also wide range of colour options.
Natural wax
Similar to varnish, but with the advantage over ordinary one that it has a much longer shelf life and thanks to wax does not scald. Standard choice for Udengo Apple Boxes.
Which paint to choose?
Depending on the desired effect we recommend:
- Exposed rings and wood drawings – varnish (or wax)
- Durability above all – phthalate enamel
- Fancy colours and short wait – acrylic paint
Apple box Accessories
You can buy apple box seat – horizontal and vertical or a carrying bag.
We hope You found this tutorial useful. If You want to learn more about our offer, head to the product page here.