First impressions matter, and this wooden messenger box definitely makes a statement. The rich brown finish and vintage 'briefcase' design had me at hello—it’s like carrying a tiny piece of old-world charm. The wood feels sturdy (not too heavy), and the hinges are solid, though I did notice minor wear on the edges after a few weeks of use.

The interior is where it shines: elastic loops for pens, clips for notes, and felt lining to protect supplies. It fits my A5 sketchbook, watercolor pans, and brushes snugly—perfect for café sketching sessions. But heads-up: chunky pens won’t fit the slim holders, and the strap feels flimsy (I swapped mine for a leather one).

I love the fold-out stand feature—it turns the box into a mini easel on my lap. However, it’s not indestructible: a drop left a small dent, and hard tools can scratch the surface. For the price, it’s more decorative than rugged, but as a gift or for light-duty creativity, it’s a charming pick.