The iconic profile of the box-pressed cigar was born out of 19th-century logistics, when cigar manufacturers packed freshly rolled sticks tightly into wooden crates. The tightly packed inventory permanently molded the round cigars into a squared shape that is now loved for its smooth draw and comfortable feel. Over time, production has evolved into different methods that have provided more control and have aided production. One method, "trunk-pressing," uses individual a trays of removable slats that can be used to create an aggressive, consistent press with defined edges while minimizing damage to the wrapper. While methods and techniques may vary, the final result is commonly referred to as a box press.
Getting started with pressing your own cigars does not require much equipment at all. The simplest approach is to place your fresh rolls in a single layer on a flat surface and set a heavy book, cutting board — or any similarly flat, heavy object — directly on top. Even that modest weight will begin to work on the cigar within a few hours. While this simple method works, care should be taken to not over press the cigars, and weight should be slowly added to avoid splitting wrapper. A paper sheet, wrapped around the cigars can help to provide some additional lateral constraint to the pressed cigars.
Cigars wrapped in paper
Ready for press
I also offer a free trunk press model on Thingiverse that you can print at home — it applies even, adjustable pressure across the entire length of the cigar and produces a clean, repeatable trunk press shape.
I offer a new and simple method I call the Paper Box Press. This system offers affordable slats sized for specific ring gauges. These slats prevent overpressing the cigar with too much weight, and when wrapped with paper, produces a result like a trunk press. Wrap your cigars in paper with the slats in place, and you get a controlled, consistent press with almost no equipment at all. The standard slats are 7" long, and are offered for 38 to 54 ring gauge. When ordered with a mold, a set of spacers for 10 cigars is $20.00, or a set for 5 cigars is $13.00. I can also provide custom sets. The calculator on this page is used to generate a PDF that you can print with lines located exactly where to fold the sheet for a clean box press.
1. Use the print calculator below, then fold the printed sheet on the dashed lines.
2. Place the large spacers against each fold, and one in the middle of the sheet.
3. Place cigars, alternating with a large or small spacer in between each one.
4. Fold the paper over the top of the cigars and tape shut.
5. Place on a flat surface and cover with a cutting board, book, or cigar mold. Slowly add weight.
6. Check periodically and rotate if needed. Tighten the paper for a more pronounced box press shape.
Generate a printable fold guide sized to your ring gauge. Print at Actual Size — no page scaling.