Hingesmith vs boxes.py
The open-source generator for finger-joint boxes, trays, shelves and dozens of other laser-cut objects. Here is what each does, so you pick the right one for the box in front of you.
What boxes.py is
boxes.py is free, open-source (GPL) software by Florian Festi, started in 2012. It runs as a web app, from the command line and as an Inkscape extension, and generates finger-joint boxes, drawers, trays, racks, gears and many special-purpose objects. Its FlexBox generators make rectangular boxes with living-hinge corners and a burn (kerf) setting; its defaults are the field-proven numbers Hingesmith’s strain limit was calibrated against.
Best for: Rectangular finger-joint boxes of every kind, and makers who want to script or extend a generator.
Visit boxes.pyWhat Hingesmith is
A generator for the boxes a finger-joint tool can’t make: 100 curved outlines whose wall is one strip of plywood with a living hinge. The cut spacing is solved from the curvature at every point of the wall and the wood’s twist limit, alternate cuts run out through the edges, and you watch the box fold together in 3D before cutting. Three shapes and two hinges export free; Pro unlocks the rest, custom kerf and DXF.
Best for: gift, keepsake and seasonal boxes with a shape, and any box with curved walls.
Side by side
From each tool’s own site, October 2026. Check theirs for changes.
| boxes.py | Hingesmith | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free, open source | Free tier; Pro from $9/month |
| Box outlines | Rectangles and polygons | 100 curved shapes: hearts, pumpkins, animals, hexagons and more |
| Living hinge | FlexBox generators, fixed spacing you choose | 21 patterns, spacing solved from the curvature at every point |
| 3D fold preview | No | Yes, with a fold slider |
| Kerf | Burn setting | Kerf compensation on tabs, slots and holes |
| Lids | Several finger-joint lid types | Drop-in, snap-lock, magnetic lip; lid art scored on top |
| Export | SVG, DXF, PostScript and more | SVG, DXF (Pro) |
| Runs | Web, CLI, Inkscape | Browser, installable app |
The boxes boxes.py doesn’t make
