Cheap parts trays

[Michael1962]

So I bought 7 blinds to go around a gazebo that we have in our backyard to make it a bit more usable as the sun is setting.

When I was putting all the rubbish from the packaging into the bin this arvo, I looked at the plastic ends that were in the tubes that the blinds came in.

Light over head moment. While they do not have covers, they are a really nice size to put components in when working on things. They would be about 100mm square and about 10mm deep.

Shouldn't be too hard to find some sort of cheap plastic containers to go over the top of them. I also have 4 retasked Indian takeaway containers with lids.

[watchweasol]

Hi Micheal    any pictures ?  I also re use the take away cartons, full of screws and bits and pieces.

[Marc]

On the subject of re-purposed packaging, in a former life these were Nutella jars (a chocolate and hazelnut spread in the UK). They make perfect covers for work in progress movements if I need to take time away from a job before it's re-cased.

And although not packaging, the actylic storage units in the background started life as make-up or dressing table organisers. I picked these up over time for pennies at car boot sales but have since found that they are available in some of the pound shops.

[LittleWatchShop]

I love re-purposing these kinds of things!!  I will look around for some nice glass domes (containers like nutella) and then print a base on the 3D printer...will post pictures when I make progress on this new shiny object.

[Michael1962]

Parts container that my lovely wife bought for me. $2

Indian takeaway container. Came containing the food thankfully or that would have been messy.

Cap from the end of the blind packaging. Would have been turfed had I not thought, 'Hmmm....."

Edited February 2, 2021 by Michael1962

[Graziano]

Hi there all, I like to also use cigar boxes for repurpose. All tools go away. I glue original picture from package to the lid for identification. Here's a couple of photos. Most of my tools are packed in cigar boxes and parts are in plastic containers with screw down lids. Then labelled. 

Edited February 2, 2021 by Graziano

[Michael1962]

If one does not smoke, where do you get cigar boxes from?

[Graziano]

1 hour ago, Michael1962 said:

If one does not smoke, where do you get cigar boxes from?

Hi there Micheal, you can buy from ebay. There are many types and sizes.They are well made, dovetail corners and if you pick wisely they have catches. Check them out 

[Michael1962]

I just had a look on Ebay Australia. I'll save my money and do something else.

[Graziano]

11 minutes ago, Michael1962 said:

I just had a look on Ebay Australia. I'll save my money and do something else.

Are you in Australia? 

[Michael1962]

Yup. That's why it is really hard to find non-working clocks, or working clocks that need restoration at reasonable prices.

Everything is much more expensive down here.

[Graziano]

1 hour ago, Michael1962 said:

Yup. That's why it is really hard to find non-working clocks, or working clocks that need restoration at reasonable prices.

Everything is much more expensive down here.

Yes tell me about it I live in Australia as well. I am in Toowoomba 

Edited February 3, 2021 by Graziano

[Michael1962]

My profile states Geelong. Yours didn't say Toowoomba, but I know it well from when I lived in Queensland as a child.

Edited February 3, 2021 by Michael1962

[Michael1962]

I was initially thinking watches as a side business. Have pondered over Mark's courses for awhile.

I haven't started it all off as I am just not sure where it would go. Other than my own son, everyone else I know either uses their phone for the time or they have an ugly watch. Ohh sorry. A Smart watch.

 

Edited February 3, 2021 by Michael1962

[jdm]

57 minutes ago, Michael1962 said:

I haven't started it all off as I am just not sure where it would go. Other than my own son, everyone else I know either uses their phone for the time or they have an ugly watch. Ohh sorry. A Smart watch.

That doesn't mean anything. Watches today are jewelry for man and lady, or trinketry depending on price. 

But even if they are sti sold in large numbers, and there are billions of them In drawers, that doesn't mean they wlll be ever given to anyone for service or repair. 

Only a talented, experienced, and reputable watchmaker gets valuable business and can command the well known scary prices.

Otherwise your are left with changing batteries plus an occasional crystal or crown, how profitable that can be? 

If good with hands and in urgent need for income I think the best route is being an handyman. You only need to charge a bit less than others, and be a bit more honest and flexible.