How do you store your "stuff"...

I'm pretty frugal (cheap) and if I can find something for free and is really useful, I try to pass it on. My ACE Hardware gets their fasteners - like drywall screws, fence staples, etc. in clear plastic tubs approx 10" X 10" square with nice red lids. They dump their fasteners into revolving bins for sale by the pound and then toss or give away the little tubs. They are free, but I always ask. They always say "help yourself". I do not take all of them, so others can use them too. These little tubs are great for storage in my shed. Ideal for things like orbital sandpaper, PVC fittings, conduit connectors, anything that fits... You can use a heat gun to remove ACEs labels so you can see whats inside or mark with big sharpie.

For small fasteners, I go to Jiffy or Tuffy Lube, etc. and ask for empty plastic bottles the oils & antifreeze come in. They are happy to be rid of them or will direct you to their dumpster outback. I pass them thru a band saw, cutting off the tops, leaving the bottom and about 2-3 inches up the sides, I run these thru the parts washer before putting stuff in them. Antifreese bottoms work well for longer things like chip or acid brushes, tire plugs & tools, tongue depressors used for mixing bondo or epoxy. You can also 'color code' them - red.white for SAE fasteners, blue for metric stuff. The prices is right for all of these and there's always more when you need them or break one.

49T&C