Friday, July 10, 2015

Tack Tip: Organize tools with a magnet bar!

This item has worked out great for my work space: a magnet bar! I have a bulletin board on the wall above my desk. My magnet bar is mounted on that, within easy reach.

I put frequently used tools on the bar. In this photo, I have a hole punch, burnisher, awl, pliers, cutters, leather punch, scissors, and there is even a chasing hammer (metalsmithing) up there sometimes, too. The utility knives just happen to sit nicely on top.

The greatest thing about this is that I don't have to get up or dig around for a tool when I'm in the middle of a project- I can just reach up and grab it. Saves time and aggravation!! It also keeps the extra tools off of my desk. If I only need a particular tool once, I will put it right back up on the bar when I'm done with it. I will have to upgrade to a 2nd bar eventually!

Magnet bars can be found at home improvement stores and Harbor Freight often has them on sale for a few dollars! http://www.harborfreight.com/18-in-magnetic-tool-holder-61199.html



Tack Tip: Recycle containers to hold small parts

Use small containers to contain small pieces while you are working. (I'm sure that we have all had those moments when we put the small hardware piece on the table, only to find that it has gone missing when we go to use it!)

I like using ketchup/condiment containers when working with hardware, especially when I'm cutting apart Rio Rondo photo etched parts- I can cut them right into the container and can put the lid on it if needed. Cutting small items off directly into the container can also sometimes help to keep things from firing off into space when they are cut, never to be seen again! :]

Yogurt cups are great for things like holding small scraps of leather to keep your work space clean.

If you need something a little larger, single serve cups from things like Velveeta Shells & Cheese or Rice-a-Roni work great, too!



Wednesday, July 8, 2015

Tack Tip: Is spilling leather dye your worst nightmare?

Try keeping the bottle of dye (or other product) in a mug like this to keep it from falling over! A roll of tape will also work in a pinch, as it should keep the bottle from completely falling over. 



Don't have any old mugs handy? Stop at a thrift store or dollar store to pick up some inexpensive mugs!

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