Stephen, building a toy box can be not only fun but rewarding to know that you are giving to the child a hand made gift that can become a favorite of not only the child but to the parents as they look back and remember your thought of a special gift made especially for their child.
In this chapter I will explain how to install a piano hinge in a box. We will go through how to mortise, fit and fasten the hinge. The essential tools are: router table, small try square, vix bit, drill and impact driver.
I have build a half dozen or so and the hinge is always a question as to what should be done. The finger smashing thing is always a concern and needs careful consideration. I have used piano hinges with the soft closing gas filled dampers that prevent a falling lid. These worked however seemed to be rather cumbersome once installed.
I have used the spring tortion hinge made especially for the purpose of preventing falling lids which worked the best. I have used the lid support that fold like a knife but these were the worst as there is the danger of a child getting their fingers pinched in the folding action of the support and then they always seemed to get bent.
If you asked my preference I would go for the tortion spring hinge. It gives a safe opening and closing lid with the least amount of troublesome installation. They are available as are the other products at most woodworking supply stores such as Rocklers and Woodworkers supply.
![Hinges Hinges](/uploads/1/2/5/8/125855545/678016758.jpg)
Good luck with the building and be sure to post some photos of the project.