BOX MAKING IN THE SHAKER TRADITION

About LeHay's Shaker Boxes

Since 1993, I’ve been making Shaker-style boxes by hand at my small shop in Embden, Maine. It’s a quiet place—woods, dirt roads, and not a lot of distractions. From the rough log to the final coat of finish, each box is built by my own hands, in small batches, a few times a year. If one ends up holding your craft supplies, family recipes, or something meaningful to you, I’ll be proud to have played a small part in that.

"I received my first ever shaker box today. I absolutely adore it! The craftsmanship is incredible. Thank you very very much." - Lisa

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  • Handcrafted shaker boxes in various colors, made in Maine for sewing and needlework display.

    Gallery of Past Work

    Have a look at recently completed Shaker boxes, trays, and carriers. These pieces have been sold, but the gallery gives a good sense of the styles and finishes I typically offer.

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  • Craftsman inspecting handcrafted wooden shaker boxes in a workshop, showcasing handmade sewing and needlework boxes.

    Schedule & Availability

    I craft and release new items a few times a year. Check this page for the current shop schedule and to see when the next batch will be available.

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  • Handcrafted wooden shaker box from Maine, featuring vintage newspaper lining, ideal for needlework display and sewing essentials.

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    Sign up to be notified the day before new items are listed here on the website, plus the occasional note from the workshop.

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Notes from Our Customers

This was my first order and my goodness the craftsmanship you have done is absolutely beautiful. This certainly won't be my only purchase. Thank you for the lovely work you do.

- Jo Marie

I am so excited to have a complete set of 11 Shaker boxes. They are beautiful! Love the quality. Great service and very fast shipping.

- Lynnell

I received my red serving tray! Beautiful craftsmanship. I absolutely love it and will be back to purchase more pieces for sure. Thank you!

- Shannon

Shop Updates

  1. Read more: Painted Shaker Oval Boxes and the Country Painting Tradition
    Six painted Shaker oval boxes by Dan Coble — a collaboration with LeHay's Shaker Boxes

    Painted Shaker Oval Boxes and the Country Painting Tradition

    I'm excited to share a small collaboration that's part of my June release: six handcrafted size #3 button boxes, painted by Indiana craftsman Dan C...
    Read more
  2. Read more: Antique Newspaper-Lined Products: My Thoughts on Pricing
    Antique Newspaper-Lined Products: My Thoughts on Pricing

    Antique Newspaper-Lined Products: My Thoughts on Pricing

    If you've followed my work for a while, you may have noticed that I occasionally line boxes with genuine antique newspaper — pages from publication...
    Read more
  3. Read more: How a Shaker Oval Box Is Made: A Step-by-Step Look Inside the Workshop
    Shaker oval boxes in progress, LeHay's Shaker Boxes, Embden, Maine

    How a Shaker Oval Box Is Made: A Step-by-Step Look Inside the Workshop

    If you've ever held a Shaker oval box and found yourself wondering how it came together, you're not alone — it's one of the questions I hear most o...
    Read more