A cigarette box is a sturdy cardboard container typically used to store only a few numbers of cigarettes and thus prevent them from being destroyed. An average cigarette box is usually a square box that open like a book. Each half holds a series of unrolled cigarettes, which tend to be held in place either by an elastic band or a magnetic clasp. The entire unit is then encased in an outer sleeve which is either printed or embossed with the name of the cigarette manufacturer, the amount of cigarettes inside, and the year they were manufactured.
There are several styles of a cigarette boxes. One is the typical standard shape that is made of white cardboard with a single lever or knob in its center. This style is found in many homes where the owner does not wish to make any decorative alterations. In this case, the color and design is more important than the actual design itself. In addition to the white coloring, the box is generally covered with colorful pieces of cloth on three sides. These cloth strips act as a means of protecting the cigarettes from becoming smeared or damaged while still being displayed in the box.
The second style is one that looks very much like a traditional wooden cigarette box, but is made out of black cardboard instead of white. It is larger than the standard shape, with the front of the unit being completely covered in prints and images. These often include advertisements for cigarettes and related products. The interior is also covered with images of different colors, usually arranged in a vertical fashion. On the reverse side of the cigarette box, the bottom is lined with the same material but in a horizontal position. This design allows for easy viewing of the contents when the unit is opened, but requires a flat surface to stand on so that the bottom of the unit does not flip over when placed on a surface such as a table or shelf.
Cigarette boxes are commonly referred to as boxes or "bromelain boxes." The materials that are used in making these boxes can be any color or pattern, although they tend to be a neutral color. They are made from a variety of materials including wood, plastic and metal. Cigarette cases can be designed in an almost infinite variety. For example, some of these cases are designed with a particular cigarette brand in mind. Some have additional compartments for other accessories such as lighters, mouthpieces and filters.
Another popular use for custom cigarette cases is in the television series Lost. In this popular series, the characters are covered by large custom cigarette cases that have their logo on the front. The cigarette cases seen in the television series are usually hinged at the top to reveal an open top where the cigarettes are placed. Decals are placed on the box to add depth to the case.
There are many uses for cigarette boxes. The most common is to protect cigars or cigarettes from damage while traveling. The lighter side of the case can be opened so that one can light up a cigar or cigarette with ease. The bottom of the box may contain special features such as an air valve or stem so that the lighter can be taken off without taking out the cigar or cigarette. Many cigar accessories such as humidifiers or ice packs use the same type of design.
The majority of cigarette holders or boxes are designed for a specific use. Some are meant for protection while traveling while others are meant for display only. A number of holders or boxes are designed to close in the bottom in a way that allows one to hold the item close to the body but keeps the item out of sight. Cigarette case covers can be found in many different shapes and sizes. A round type is most common and is designed in a semi-circular shape with the front cover extending above the opening at the top of the box and the backside of the cover acting as a hanger. Many designs feature raised panels at the top of the box or a raised lip on the top of the box to help keep the item inside.
Some designs have vertical strips along with the boxes. These horizontal tracks allow for the item to lay flat for easy viewing. Cigarette holders or trunnions are typically constructed from a variety of materials including metal, wood, acrylic and plastic. Wood is most common but is not preferred due to the tendency for smokers to chew on the trunnions. Most cigarette holders or trunnions are made using metal or wood because the material is easy to maintain and can be painted to match any color scheme.