Geometric Butterfly Shadow Box: DIY Assembly Tips
By Michaels Canada | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to assemble the Jonathan Adler x Michaels geometric butterfly LED shadow box with practical steps, common mistakes, and finishing tips for a polished wall display.
Quick Answer
Assemble your geometric butterfly LED shadow box by organizing the plywood pieces, dry-fitting before gluing, and securing the LED components before finishing. Work in a well-lit area and test the light before final assembly.
Why Assembly Order Matters
The Jonathan Adler x Michaels geometric butterfly shadow box arrives unfinished, so you control the final look. Assembly order affects how easily you can paint, insert the LED, and mount the piece. If you glue everything first, you may block access to the light compartment or make finishing awkward.
Dry-fitting every piece before applying adhesive is the single most useful habit. It lets you spot misaligned tabs, confirm the butterfly pattern lines up, and decide where to place the LED before committing.
Finishing Before or After Assembly
You can paint the plywood before assembly or after. Painting before assembly is easier for reaching tight corners and the Greek key border, but you must protect the LED components from paint. Painting after assembly gives a more uniform finish but requires careful masking.
If you choose bold paint hues or metallic touches, test them on a scrap piece first. The unfinished plywood absorbs paint unevenly, so a primer or light sanding helps the color look consistent.
Assembly Steps
- Lay Out All Pieces: Unpack the box and lay out every plywood piece on a flat surface. Identify the butterfly shape, the border pieces, and the LED components. Check for any damage or missing parts before starting. Compare the pieces to the instruction sheet to confirm you have everything.
- Dry-Fit the Frame: Assemble the outer frame and butterfly pieces without glue. Make sure the tabs fit snugly and the design lines up. Adjust any pieces that seem warped or misaligned. If a piece doesn't fit, sand the tab lightly rather than forcing it.
- Plan the LED Placement: Decide where the LED will sit inside the box. Check that the wire can reach the battery pack or power source without being pinched. Mark the spot with a pencil. Ensure the LED is centered behind the butterfly for even illumination.
- Paint or Finish the Pieces: If painting before assembly, apply primer and your chosen colors to each piece. Let them dry completely. For metallic touches, use a small brush to avoid covering the geometric lines. Use thin coats to prevent paint from filling the tab slots.
- Glue the Frame Together: Apply wood glue to the tabs and assemble the frame. Use clamps or heavy books to hold the joints while the glue dries. Wipe away excess glue immediately. Check that the frame is square before the glue sets.
- Install the LED: Insert the LED into the marked spot and secure it with the provided clips or adhesive. Route the wire along the back or edge so it doesn't interfere with the butterfly. Test the light before sealing the box. If the light flickers, check the battery connection before final assembly.
- Attach the Back Panel: Place the back panel over the frame and secure it with the included screws or tabs. Ensure the LED wire exits through the designated hole. Test the light again after the panel is attached. Leave the back panel removable if you need to replace the battery later.
About This Shadow Box
- Jonathan Adler x Michaels 8.75" Geometric Butterfly DIY LED Shadow Box Décor: This unfinished LED plywood shadow box features a geometric butterfly design with a Greek key border. The geometric pattern and border give you clear lines to follow when aligning pieces, and the unfinished surface lets you customize the color scheme.
Jonathan Adler x Michaels 8.75" Geometric Butterfly DIY LED Shadow Box Décor
