They are currently just stacked on the counter in my shop. But one of my next shop projects is to build a cabinet for them.
I really like the ability to either take an entire container with me or to open them up and take just the individual tray.
The kreg option has the lids on the individual trays which is nice for carrying them to a project without risking spilling.
The reason I use two types is that while I prefer the kreg option, sometimes I don't need such large containers and it ends up being a waste of space for some of my parts.
I've been using clear plastic food containers for my smaller lots, and clear plastic canisters for the large lots, like pounds of screws. I like that I can stack them, I can see at a glance what the size is without checking the label or opening them, and if I need them out of the shop I can just grab the sizes I believe I'll need and take them with. Plus the lids seal them from dirt and moisture. I keep them on a shelve at eye hight in the shop, so I can see them at a glance.
Here's my system. Each container (ideally) is categorized to typs of screws, bolts, washers, etc. It's not 100% the way I want it, but it works great when I need to find certain kinds of screws and such.
I haven't made it yet, but plan to make a stack cabinet, and I'll put 10 of them in there. Something just like what Rayne posted.
For stuff I have a lot more of than what I can put in 1 or 2 of the bin openings I use this HF jewel. This would be like entire boxes of screws, stuff like that.
Here s my system. Each container (ideally) is categorized to typs of screws, bolts, washers, etc. It s not 100% the way I want it, but it works great when I need to find certain kinds of screws and such.
Right now, mine are scattered between two spots. Eventually, they'll all be on the rolling rack of pull out bins, which has storage for large containers, since I buy my square drive and other screws in quantities.
I love the deals I found at garage sales. Because of them, I have been able to organize small parts for a fraction of the price these bin holders would have cost. The one looks horrible, but it's still sound.
As I move to the multi drawer unit, my buddy gets my old, wood bins.
They are inexpensive, customizable and one thing I really like is that the bottom of the trough is curved, so it's easy to scoop out screws etc with your fingers. Like you, I have to have a lidded box.
Here s my system. Each container (ideally) is categorized to typs of screws, bolts, washers, etc. It s not 100% the way I want it, but it works great when I need to find certain kinds of screws and such.
- Rayne
Nice, Next time I can t find what I need I m coming to your house.
Funny you should say that because my neighbor came by yesterday looking for a certain length of screws and I got him some in under 10 seconds. lol. It was out of the blue, but the system worked.
I go with the closest container is where the screws and bolts go. This system make for a scavenger hunt when looking for something. I do find things I was looking the week before. Maybe I will get some good organizational suggestions on this thread. The trick is putting them to practice.
I do what I can not to use screws, nails or staples, But I do have them on hand if needed. I use empty 16oz spice bottles to store various dowel pins and 2" oak spindles. When buying screws, I get them in the clear plastic containers and line the up on a shelf out of the way. The orange organizer is looded with all different sizes and types of lag bolts & lag screws. I have one drawer in my tool box dedicated to finishing nails, nails, bolts, nut, washers and brass screws (all in their original boxes with the labels up). Also have separate containers for used misc.
screws, machine screws, bolts, nuts and washers (I'm frugal so I save all the old hardware).
Ooops picture loaded upside down. I've tried the different small organizers. but it seems like I have to pull open twenty different small drawers to see if I got the right drawer.
I found these on black Friday sale several years ago and built a cart to store them under my workbench. I was able to organize smalls into several categories, nuts & bolts, screws, wood parts, jig parts, etc..
It was only a partial solution and I added drawer storage for many other screws that I use. I still have a couple of these use too.
Ultimately it will come down to time, budget and available space. Lots of different ways to solve this problem.
I will say that my combination has vastly improved my shop space and ability to find things when needed.
My organization is a bit of a mix, but there are a couple of things worth mentioning:
If you come across a lot of small single containers, for me that was a bunch of plastic slide containers with a clear top, a bunch of chewing gum containers with a clear top… it could also be glass containers of your favorite marmalade that you eat all year long… keeping those and store screws and nuts etc. in it has the big advantage that you can just take that single container out, and take it with you. This is great when you have to work on something outside of the shop, and even if you only ever work within your shop. I just find using single containers much less hassle than maneuvering those larger containers that hold 20 pounds of screws and take up half my workbench.
When I work on a specific project, I often buy screws nuts and bolts just for that, and keep them all in one ice tray. I have several, and sometimes each one is dedicated for one project. I store these in a drawer, and then just take out the tray for my project and have all I need at hand. Those ice trays are very cheap, and can often be found at thrift stores. They also stack.
Another thing I definitely agree with is to keep everything in closed containers. A shop gets dusty, and dirty over time. It also helps a bit with keeping moisture away.
Thank you all for all your replies.
I truly appreciate.
I already use a combinations of most the solutions offered.
I was expecting a "magic" solution, unfortunately it might not yet exist.
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