Pen Storage (BIG and cheap)

[tandaina]

I got a tip this week for a place to find a box that would work to store pens... Harbor Freight Tools.

So I stopped and found a huge wooden tool chest (frankly the drawers are too shallow for tools and the felt lined wood wouldn't hold up, but whatever). HUGE compared to my poor cigar boxes, which I've far outgrown. Cost $75 with tax. I plan to eventually sand it down and refinish and swap out the rather ugly hardware but the whole thing is great.

Two big drawers that hold pen trays (I used the premade cut to fit kind) for 25 pens each. Plus 6 smaller trays that can hold pens, OR extra nibs, rehab supplies, eye droppers, etc. Plus a nice deep place under the top lid that holds most of my ink bottles (Noodler's bottles are just a tad too tall. So are the Iroshizuku ink boxes, the bottle might fit but I've kept it in the box.)

So happy. Was able to corral a pen and ink collection that has been driving my husband NUTS without having to do a bunch of rehab work making something else work for pens. This was simple, a little cutting and measuring for the trays and I was DONE and moved in. If you've got a Harbor Freight Tool and need a cheap storage solution check it out.

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5336/8918337705_bded449bde_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/84377112@N05/8918337705/)
PO3A1757 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/84377112@N05/8918337705/) by JoAndRoses (http://www.flickr.com/people/84377112@N05/), on Flickr

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3777/8918954236_d9631104ac_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/84377112@N05/8918954236/)
PO3A1758 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/84377112@N05/8918954236/) by JoAndRoses (http://www.flickr.com/people/84377112@N05/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8559/8918338827_172c1b781f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/84377112@N05/8918338827/)
PO3A1759 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/84377112@N05/8918338827/) by JoAndRoses (http://www.flickr.com/people/84377112@N05/), on Flickr

(Front has a panel that pulls up from the bottom and locks over the drawers so the whole thing is neatly secured from curious fingers:

http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2861/8919043530_54758a029e_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/84377112@N05/8919043530/)
photo (http://www.flickr.com/photos/84377112@N05/8919043530/) by JoAndRoses (http://www.flickr.com/people/84377112@N05/), on Flickr

I'm impressed! Not the most beautiful, but functional, and I'd rather spend money on pens than on the (beautiful) $$$$ dedicated pen furniture.

Yay!

[MisterBoll]

What a great suggestion. Looks really good.

Here is a link to their web site - http://www.harborfreight.com/eight-drawer-wood-tool-chest-94538.html

[jor412]

That's a fantastic purchase and great idea. I hope I can find something like that. I assume you put in the mirror and green felt lining. What was it originally lined with?

[Jon Szanto]

Nope, that model has been around for a few years, and the felt and mirror are the way it comes. Tandaina, are those the pen trays from Pendora?

[jor412]

Oh I see. Well what an odd tool chest then. Maybe it was intended for make up. Whatever. Looks great for pens and inks.

[cedargirl]

That looks very useful for pens and paraphernalia.

[Jon Szanto]

Oh I see. Well what an odd tool chest then. Maybe it was intended for make up. Whatever. Looks great for pens and inks.
A little bit of trivia: those Harbor Freight toolboxes are knock-offs of very similar models that have been made for over 100 years by the company Gerstner. A quick search about that setup revealed the following from somewhere on the company information pages:


The Question for this issue comes from Mr. E. K. Morley of Boone, North Carolina.
He wrote, “What is the historical purpose of the mirror mounted inside the chest top lid?”

The Company Response:
The mirror was first installed in the early 1900’s on some of the very earliest Gerstner chest designs. In those days, very few manufacturing and/or tool & die companies had indoor plumbing. In other words, there were few companies with lavatories (with wash basins and mirrors) for toolmakers and other factory workers to use to clean up at the end of the day.

The “mirror” mounted inside a Gerstner tool chest provided the wherewithal for the chest owner to check his appearance and comb his hair before heading home (or, perhaps, going in to ask the boss for a raise). At various times over the years, we have introduced a few tool chests without including a mirror. Interestingly enough, the feedback from customers has been, “Without a mirror, the chest doesn’t look like a Gerstner.” So . . . you may notice that virtually all new model Gerstners feature a “mirror” inside the tip lid.

[MY63]

Well done Tanaina a simple and elegant solution to your storage needs.
I wish there was a Harbour Freight in the UK.
The old ones sell for high prices at auction here I have watched many rise above my budget.
I will just have to keep looking.

[79spitfire]

Oh I see. Well what an odd tool chest then. Maybe it was intended for make up. Whatever. Looks great for pens and inks.
The original chests were intended for precision type tools, such as those used for measuring, Micrometers, Calipers and the like, hence the felt lining, to protect those very expensive tools.

[Tony Rex]

For international shipping rates on your order, please contact our Call Center at 1-800-423-2567.

Problem is, we can't call US 1-800 number.

"Hey Fred, ever wonder why we never get an overseas order?"

"Beats me."

[MisterBoll]

For international shipping rates on your order, please contact our Call Center at 1-800-423-2567.

Problem is, we can't call US 1-800 number.

"Hey Fred, ever wonder why we never get an overseas order?"



"Beats me."

You can email them about international orders - internationalorders@harborfreight.com

[AndyT]

I always wanted a Gerstner type tool box for my measuring and marking tools (I'm a cabinet maker), but never found the time to make one. They're not so well known in the UK. I'm sure I remember reading of small caches of banknotes being found behind the mirror in old boxes. Seems like a very elegant solution for storing a good sized collection of pens.

[tandaina]

It came with the mirror and green felt!

[tandaina]

The only 'drawback'? My pens have been scattered all over the place until now in little caches.... I got all moved in and my husband just stared: 'I didn't know you had THAT many pens'

Oops.

[manoeuver]

that is far more beautiful than my industrial looking Husky tool box drawer-thingy.

thing is I looked at Harbor Freight for such a beast without luck before I got my black metal box at Home Depot (facepalm)

[carlos.q]

that is far more beautiful than my industrial looking Husky tool box drawer-thingy.


Oh, so you got one looking something like this:

[Nomdeplume]

Source for the inserts?

[79spitfire]

that is far more beautiful than my industrial looking Husky tool box drawer-thingy.


Oh, so you got one looking something like this:

That looks pretty darn good too!

[thagbert]

That's a thing of beauty!

[carlos.q]

Source for the inserts?

PLASTIS ice cube tray. Errr... the one on the left
99 cents at IKEA (Not affiliated at all, not an IKEA stock holder and I'm definitely not Swedish!!!)

3221

[tandaina]

I got my inserts at Pentime I believe. They are grey felt and cuttable with scissors.

[Mod_wolves]

Where abouts do you store the box when it's not in use? Is it Discreet when closed up? I'm thinking of one for myself but trying to think figure out where I could keep it myself. I'm slowly running out of space. My parents have a bureau I could use but it is too big in our apartment so this box could be a good alternative.

[tandaina]

See the last picture of it closed up with the front closed. It isn't small, the table it is sitting on is an old drop leaf kitchen table that we use as a side table to give you an idea of size. It isn't inconspicuous. But it isn't ugly either. Eventually I'd like to refinish it a darker red/mahogany to match the rest of the wood in our living room. And I'd like to replace the hardware with brass, but it's fine even as is.

[manoeuver]

that is far more beautiful than my industrial looking Husky tool box drawer-thingy.


Oh, so you got one looking something like this:

pretty close:

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m262/timhofmann/IMG_20130118_055835.jpg


http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m262/timhofmann/IMG_20130114_074620.jpg


http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m262/timhofmann/IMG_20130114_074721.jpg

[carlos.q]

Definitely Tandaina's pen box is a lot prettier than ours! :clap2:

[Nomdeplume]

Source for the inserts?

PLASTIS ice cube tray. Errr... the one on the left
99 cents at IKEA (Not affiliated at all, not an IKEA stock holder and I'm definitely not Swedish!!!)

3221
Found inserts at GoPens site! But those IKEA ice trays look good!

[Nomdeplume]

I got my inserts at Pentime I believe. They are grey felt and cuttable with scissors.

How many inserts (of what size) did you need for the harbor tool chest?

You people are really a bad influence! :)

[tandaina]

Oops, sorry, was not from Pentime. Was from GoPens.com

These:
https://www.gopens.com/Vintage_Pen_Parts/vintage_pens_12X16Trays.php

I used two full trays (the big drawers are a bit wider than the drawers so used another insert to add the two slots need to the drawer.

So that'd be 3 minimum if you just want to use the big drawers. Another tray or two would probably cut down to fit the small drawers easily, but I haven't done that yet.

[thagbert]

I got my inserts at Pentime I believe. They are grey felt and cuttable with scissors.

How many inserts (of what size) did you need for the harbor tool chest?

You people are really a bad influence! :)

I think the word you are looking for is "enablers".

[Jon Szanto]

I was thinking co-dependent. It isn't a one-way street with pen people...

[thagbert]

tandaina,

What is your total capacity on the two larger drawers?

[tandaina]

Each big drawer can take 26 pens. So that's 52 pens just in the big drawers.The little drawers will take 11 pens each.

And the drawers are deep enough even for long pens. I've got a long desk pen style calligraphy pen which fits in the small drawer perfectly.

[79spitfire]

This one.... http://www.harborfreight.com/eight-drawer-wood-tool-chest-94538.html

Looks like it's $80 and 7 or so shipping in the US.

(How's that for enabling?) :bolt:

[thagbert]

I saw a 20% off coupon for Harbor Freight at RetailMeNot. I cannot vouch for its validity. Sometimes RetailMeNot is a little twitchy.

[tandaina]

I'm seeing a sudden PROFUSION of orders for this thing. ;) We had to go to two stores to find it, it is apparently popular, I'm guessing with the ladies for crafting and such.

[Runnin_Ute]

I have one of these: http://www.shopnbc.com/Invicta_Three_Slot_Impact_Dive_Case/604-896.aspx?storeid=1&track=-20101&cm_re=SearchList-_-N-_-N&page=LIST&free_text=invicta%20dive%20boxes

and one of these:
http://www.shopnbc.com/Invicta_Eight_Slot_Dive_Collector_Box/604-813.aspx?storeid=1&track=-20101&cm_re=SearchList-_-N-_-N&page=LIST&free_text=invicta%20dive%20boxes

for some of my watches. They could easily be configured to handle pens and inks.

A bit oversized for my current needs, but that Harbor Freight box is real nice...

[thagbert]

I ordered the chest from Harbor Freight. Used a twenty-five percent off coupon code. Total shipped: $72.00.
Good for one item. Code: 65002072

You can get a Gerstner chest in solid Oak, from Garret Wade

Gerstner Eight Drawer Chest $328 (http://www.garrettwade.com/gerstner-international-large-chest-base/p/96M01.02/)

A really BIG chest for a lot more! (http://www.garrettwade.com/gerstner-international-large-rolling-cabinet/p/96M01.05/)

[tandaina]

Looks like that's just the for drawer top, you also have to add the bottom stand and it comes to a whopping $500+. But nice looking!

[firstpancake]

that's amazing! and Harbor Freight is amazing. :)

[Nomdeplume]

I'm seeing a sudden PROFUSION of orders for this thing. ;) We had to go to two stores to find it, it is apparently popular, I'm guessing with the ladies for crafting and such.

None of the local Harbor Freight Stores (4) had them in stock. Online order placed. Shipment expected later this week!

[sstorkel]

The original chests were intended for precision type tools, such as those used for measuring, Micrometers, Calipers and the like, hence the felt lining, to protect those very expensive tools.

Exactly! These machinist's tool chests weren't designed to hold hammers and wrenches, but rather precision measuring and marking tools. Some chests even have a drawer sized to fit Machinery's Handbook (http://new.industrialpress.com/machinery-s-handbook-29th-edition-toolbox.html), the 2800-page machinist's bible.

In the United States, there are several sources for tool boxes like these:

H. Gerstner & Sons (http://www.gerstnerusa.com) -- The "classic" purveyor of fine wooden tool chests; their products are made in the USA and can be quite (read: outrageously) expensive. They occasionally sell discontinued and imperfect products at a large discount.

Gerstner International (http://www.gerstner-international.com) -- a subsidiary of Gerstner & Sons. Smaller selection of products, manufactured overseas, and sold for (slightly) lower prices than their USA-made equivalents.

Grizzly International (http://www.grizzly.com/products/category/159090) -- offers a selection of maple and oak toolboxes, manufactured overseas, sold at discount prices

And, as previously noted, Harbor Freight (http://www.harborfreight.com/eight-drawer-wood-tool-chest-94538.html) also sells an inexpensive wooden toolbox.

[Kudzu]

Trouble is, I'd have to have way more than one of those cabinets to hold my pens. And then, like you, my hubby would know how many pens I actually have! :jaw: But I really like how yours looks!

[tandaina]

I will fill up the big drawers this year Nd quietly start using the little ones too, but can't imagine I'd fill up the whole thing any time soon. Finger's crossed!

[subramaniyam]

I built this out of scrap ply. Completely portable. Stilll need to add veneer- and pens.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/47104577@N03/8968179421/in/photostream/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/47104577@N03/8969369280/in/photostream/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/47104577@N03/8968177905/in/photostream/

Regards,
Sub

[mhguda]

Subramaniyam, you are truly multitalented, and I'm so full of envy I could pass for a bottle of green ink!

[subramaniyam]

Thank you, Mhguda. I've been buying tools whenever I get money for special occasions, and love DIY. I did all the painting, carpentry, and plumbing work in my house. Give mum and dad a headache, though, whenever I start a project, because it is standing room only!!!

Regards,
Subramaniyam

[Pendora]

I make pen storage boxes as well and love the craft. I use anything from jewelry boxes to cigar boxes. If you find that the slots prove challenging for you, consider looking at my pen trays. The slots are pre-made and ready to be trimmed to any application. Trays are made from a .30 flocked polystyrene and measure 8 x 21. You could trim one tray down for 3 cigar boxes. I carry Red, blue and black and just today we added a rich burgundy (with a hint of dark plum).


http://pendorapens.com/pen-tray-liner-inserts.html

Michelle
pendoraLLC
www.pendorapens.com

[earthdawn]

Outstanding tandaina !!!

Looks great and you filled it up nicely lol

I know how you feel about getting them all together as it makes for quite a sight to the significant other :jaw::argue::)

[tandaina]

Fortunately there was no arguing. But he did buy me a necklace for my birthday because, and I quote: "You have so many pens and all you had on your wishlist was MORE PENS, I didn't think you needed any more pens! So I got you a diamond, I hope that's OK."

Some more education is obviously needed. ;) Now that they are all together I did open the German drawer and show him my lineup of tortoise Pelikans and mention that I had a goal of someday having a complete collection of ALL tortoise Pelikan models ever made. He just sorta looked confused. :P

[BikerBabe]

Source for the inserts?

PLASTIS ice cube tray. Errr... the one on the left
99 cents at IKEA (Not affiliated at all, not an IKEA stock holder and I'm definitely not Swedish!!!)

3221

Cool! I got to remember that, the next time I drop by at Ikea! Thanks for the info. :)

[Annie]

Just found http://www.warco.co.uk/tool-cabinets--chests/302945-tool-chest.html for anyone in the UK. Free delivery too.

[alc3261]

Argggg - out of stock!!

[AndyT]

Just found http://www.warco.co.uk/tool-cabinets--chests/302945-tool-chest.html for anyone in the UK. Free delivery too.

Thanks for that, Annie. Looks like a good deal to me.

[Susan3141]

Man! That's an amazing find Tandaina! My 10 slot cigar case from Bamapen is full and so is my 6 pen Penvelope. But I don't have enough pens (yet) to warrant this baby, though I did put it in my online cart just to see what the price would be. But, no, I've got a ways to go before I need that much space. I think.

[MY63]

Chronos seem to have stock of a very similar product would make an easy conversion just like Tandainas box

http://www.chronos.ltd.uk/acatalog/NEW-_TRADITIONAL_TOOLMAKERS_TOOL_CHEST.html

[OakIris]

Your pens and inks look very happy, tandaina. :thumb:

I am using an oak Gerstner machinist tool chest from the 1940's for my pen repair and cleaning tools and other pen paraphernalia. I did look at the Harbor Freight tool chest at their local store here in the Denver area but didn't like the build quality so went "vintage" instead. The price premium was worth it for me, but the Harbor Freight box probably would have done just as well - for home pen storage, you don't really need something that is sturdy enough to take abuse.

Holly

[thagbert]

Man! That's an amazing find Tandaina! My 10 slot cigar case from Bamapen is full and so is my 6 pen Penvelope. But I don't have enough pens (yet) to warrant this baby, though I did put it in my online cart just to see what the price would be. But, no, I've got a ways to go before I need that much space. I think.

Don't kid yourself. You could keep all of your pens, inks, pen cleaning supplies, spare nibs, boxes, paper etc. in there. And room to grow

[Heliotrope]

Tandaina,
Thanks for the photos of your new pen storage case. I have been looking off and on for something that will hold ink bottles and other pen-related supplies. After seeing your photos, I picked up one of these wood chests at Harbor Freight over the weekend and put it on a small office dolly (the kind that goes under a CPU or a filing cabinet) to roll easily under my desk. Just what I was looking for. Thanks!

[Nomdeplume]

My Harbor Freight Box arrived today!
Thank you Tandaina!
And Heliotrope, the wheels are a great idea! Thanks to you, too!
I will post pix after I get it all together...can't wait to take it to the next Posse meeting to show it off!

:):bump2:

[thagbert]

My Harbor Freight Box arrived yesterday!

[tandaina]

Yay! :)

[Heliotrope]

My Harbor Freight Box arrived today!
Thank you Tandaina!
And Heliotrope, the wheels are a great idea! Thanks to you, too!
I will post pix after I get it all together...can't wait to take it to the next Posse meeting to show it off!

:):bump2:


My Harbor Freight Box arrived yesterday!

No wonder these seem to be hard to find, if so many fountain pen enthusiasts are purchasing at the same time. There are 2 Harbor Freight locations in Austin. The first one I went to was sold out. The second location said that they had 2 of them, but the only one they could actually find was the one I purchased.

Thagbert, did you look locally before placing an order?

Nomdeplume, I found the dolly at Office Depot for about $25. There's probably a better selection on Amazon.

[thagbert]

My Harbor Freight Box arrived yesterday!

No wonder these seem to be hard to find, if so many fountain pen enthusiasts are purchasing at the same time. There are 2 Harbor Freight locations in Austin. The first one I went to was sold out. The second location said that they had 2 of them, but the only one they could actually find was the one I purchased.

Thagbert, did you look locally before placing an order?
Nomdeplume, I found the dolly at Office Depot for about $25. There's probably a better selection on Amazon.

I am not close to either one, so I ordered online. What kind of dolly did you get? Do you have an item number?

Just got it placed this evening. Built a short bookshelf to place it on. Will have photos later when all is set.

[Nomdeplume]

It's called a "PC Skate" ....I put "computer dollie" in the Amazon search. $17. Flat piece of plastic with 5 wheels.

I have the inserts in place. I got black...in hind sight I should have gone with lighter inserts or matched the green felt...oh well.

I think I am already out of space! Uh-oh!

I'll have to figure out some "themes" or brand or model (like all demonstrators) to the drawer arrangements and continue to use some of my other/former boxes for the 'overflow'....

[thagbert]

Pictures as promised.
34593460

Just noticed a partial selfie in the mirror!
Also noticed I haven't put the six bottles of Noodler's in there.

This box is awesome for the price I paid. Admittedly it's not quarter sawn oak, but that would have cost exponentially more. I am very satisfied.

Plenty of room to grow. I can't see myself outgrowing this box anytime soon. If I filled all of the drawers with a single layer, that would be 118 pens. I could double stack the top compartment if things really got ridiculous.

Also for those thinking about ordering one, here is a Harbor Freight coupon code for 25% off one item. Enter code at online check-out. The code is supposed to be good until the end of July. Code: 65002072

Thanks tandiana for the awesome tip!

[Nomdeplume]

Yep, should have gone with lighter inserts! This looks great!

[thagbert]

Yep, should have gone with lighter inserts! This looks great!

Yeah, I imagine the black inserts are a little dark. It's not too late to switch them out!

[Mod_wolves]

I really want one of these, I have a cigar box currently bustling with pens which I physically cannot fit any more pens in. It looks amazing thagbert. On the top part could you fit a 4.5oz noodlers bottle? I doubt it but I'd thought I'd ask any way. I've got lots of bits and bobs I would look fantastic in the small draws and I think the empty big draws would inspire me to buy more pens... Which isn't a bad thing.

[thagbert]

I really want one of these, I have a cigar box currently bustling with pens which I physically cannot fit any more pens in. It looks amazing thagbert. On the top part could you fit a 4.5oz noodlers bottle? I doubt it but I'd thought I'd ask any way. I've got lots of bits and bobs I would look fantastic in the small draws and I think the empty big draws would inspire me to buy more pens... Which isn't a bad thing.

It won't quite close with the 3oz bottles. Other bottles fit fine. Except maybe Akkerman.

[tandaina]

The taller Noodler's bottles absolutely don't fit in the top, sadly. So I still do have ink bottles outside the box. Just about everything else filts great.

[Heliotrope]

My Harbor Freight Box arrived yesterday!

No wonder these seem to be hard to find, if so many fountain pen enthusiasts are purchasing at the same time. There are 2 Harbor Freight locations in Austin. The first one I went to was sold out. The second location said that they had 2 of them, but the only one they could actually find was the one I purchased.

Thagbert, did you look locally before placing an order?
Nomdeplume, I found the dolly at Office Depot for about $25. There's probably a better selection on Amazon.

I am not close to either one, so I ordered online. What kind of dolly did you get? Do you have an item number?

Just got it placed this evening. Built a short bookshelf to place it on. Will have photos later when all is set.


Sorry, Thagbert, I already discarded the box, so I don't have any item information. Anyway, the PC skate recommended by Nomdeplume is better than what I got. I'm thinking of getting a PC skate and putting my original purchase to a different use.

A couple of people have asked about what ink bottles fit in the top portion of the chest. Pilot Iroshizuku bottles (removed from box) fit fine along the sides of the chest, but not under the mirror portion. TWSBI 50ml inkwells fit fine in any position. Noodler's 3oz bottles and Franklin Christoph bottles are just a tad too tall for the lid to close securely. The lid closes almost all the way, but not enough that I would attempt to latch it. I don't have any Akkerman bottles.

I have read in some reviews that the reviewers considered the chest too cheaply constructed. What I got was solid wood, but lighter weight than I was expecting. The bottoms of the drawers are stapled in. All structural componants and drawers are tightly constructed and well fitted. The only loose part is the front cover, which flips out and slides underneath the drawers when the box is open. It is somewhat loose, as the hinges are simple wooden pegs fitted into slots. The front cover can be left open and out of the way permanently, but if you close it, it must be locked or it will fall open again. When locked, the front cover rattles a little when the box is moved. At this price, I am entirely satisfied. In fact, I ordered another one to give as a Father's Day gift.

[Tony Rex]

Source for the inserts?
PLASTIS ice cube tray. Errr... the one on the left
99 cents at IKEA (Not affiliated at all, not an IKEA stock holder and I'm definitely not Swedish!!!)
3221

Here's the size scale. Great for smaller and thinner pens.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7422/9046058243_8cc297e111_z.jpg

I like great ideas. Thanks for sharing.

Tony

[OakIris]

My Harbor Freight Box arrived today!
Thank you Tandaina!
And Heliotrope, the wheels are a great idea! Thanks to you, too!
I will post pix after I get it all together...can't wait to take it to the next Posse meeting to show it off!

:):bump2:

Very cool! I look forward to seeing it, both here and in person. Perhaps we should make "pen storage" the theme for our next posse meeting and all of us should bring some of our storage boxes to it. :thumb:

Holly

[Nomdeplume]

Uh-oh!
Got the box almost put all together...just waiting for the "wheels" to arrive...didn't get around to taking pictures yet.....took hubby to see Superman-Man of Steel, IMAX 3D no less! For Father's Day....we are waiting through the previews, he turns to me and says, "I looked in that new box of yours, it's already FULL!" :jaw:

[david i]

Large storage for pens. Actually priced out pretty cheaply for what it holds, but it holds a lot... some 2200 pens

http://www.vacumania.com/penteech2/davepencase2fiftyper.jpg

regards

david

[Nomdeplume]

Nice PhotoShop, David!
I have an old museum case from my mother's school teaching...but it still contains the actual museum displays of various fibers and textiles, so, while it make a nice box for pens, I think I'll keep it as is!

[KrazyIvan]

I see David has his Sith eyes going. :D

[david i]

Next day or so, I really must post one of the most affordable desk top pen storage options in existence. So far I've shared only with a few pen friends...

regards

david

[MisterBoll]

Next day or so, I really must post one of the most affordable desk top pen storage options in existence. So far I've shared only with a few pen friends...

As long as it's not made by rubbermaid please do share.

[david i]

Next day or so, I really must post one of the most affordable desk top pen storage options in existence. So far I've shared only with a few pen friends...

As long as it's not made by rubbermaid please do share.

Might be... but i'll probably share anyway. IIR nearly 300 pens on a one square foot footprint... Let's see ya get that with a fake Gerstner tool case. Though, come to think of it, I do have a beautiful real Gerstner case (even with room for the booklets) that I sort of was forced to take when I bought a pen collection housed in it. So it goes...

regards

david

[KrazyIvan]

Next day or so, I really must post one of the most affordable desk top pen storage options in existence. So far I've shared only with a few pen friends...

As long as it's not made by rubbermaid please do share.

Might be... but i'll probably share anyway. IIR nearly 300 pens on a one square foot footprint... Let's see ya get that with a fake Gerstner tool case. Though, come to think of it, I do have a beautiful real Gerstner case (even with room for the booklets) that I sort of was forced to take when I bought a pen collection housed in it. So it goes...

regards

david

I know I want to see it.

[MisterBoll]

Could it be something originally meant for test tubes?

[KrazyIvan]

I was thinking something like this lined with pen trays for myself:

http://ak1.ostkcdn.com/images/products/L12263312.jpg

[MisterBoll]

I was thinking something like this lined with pen trays for myself:

That's interesting but I have it in my mind that pens should be stored in a wood cabinet.

[KrazyIvan]

Depends on the pens. Modern industrial like collections might look good in that cabinet. It's also going to depend on your personal taste and the decor direction you are trying to achieve. Wooden boxes in anything other than black just will not match and look out of place.

[Nomdeplume]

At the peril of hearing from David I that it's somehow "just another copy" and therefore inferior to anything he would have, I am going to go ahead and post some pix of my Harbor Freight Tool Box filled with some of my pens and inks....

3615

[thagbert]

At the peril of hearing from David I that it's somehow "just another copy" and therefore inferior to anything he would have, I am going to go ahead and post some pix of my Harbor Freight Tool Box filled with some of my pens and inks....

3615

Nicely done! And forget David I.

[david i]

At the peril of hearing from David I that it's somehow "just another copy" and therefore inferior to anything he would have


Note that Nom appears to be addressing someone other than me, or at least that he failed to read (or perhaps to understand) my post.

regards

david

[david i]

Nicely done! And forget David I.

I wish you lostsa luck with that...

-d

[reprieve]

I checked my local store last week, but they did not have the wooden tool box. I just ordered it online, using the coupon code, and the total was $72.98. Thanks, everyone, for posting about this.

Now I'm trying to figure out how many trays I need to order from gopens. Has anyone put pen slots in the top compartment?

[Nomdeplume]

I checked my local store last week, but they did not have the wooden tool box. I just ordered it online, using the coupon code, and the total was $72.98. Thanks, everyone, for posting about this.

Now I'm trying to figure out how many trays I need to order from gopens. Has anyone put pen slots in the top compartment?

I did not put trays in the top as it is nicely deep enough for all the inks and other "stuff"...it took 3 of the long inserts from Pendora or GoPens to fill the 2 large drawers and a couple of the small drawers. I used black, makes very dark, but I won't see ink stains! :) others used lighter color as you can see from their photos.

[reprieve]

Now I'm trying to figure out how many trays I need to order from gopens. Has anyone put pen slots in the top compartment?

I did not put trays in the top as it is nicely deep enough for all the inks and other "stuff"...it took 3 of the long inserts from Pendora or GoPens to fill the 2 large drawers and a couple of the small drawers. I used black, makes very dark, but I won't see ink stains! :) others used lighter color as you can see from their photos.

Thanks!

Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on your perspective :)), I need to use the top for pen storage. Even if I double-stack the trays in the top compartment, I'm not sure that everything will fit. But I'm super-excited--this storage box will be incredibly helpful as I will finally take a proper inventory, put everything in once place, and sell off some of the excess.

I am going to order 6 of the Gopens trays and see how it goes. Color-wise, I'm wavering between green and grey.

[MisterBoll]

After looking at these pictures I realize my pen collection is too small.

I who have nothing!

I'm thinking I'll have to start a mad shopping extravaganza first thing tomorrow morning.

[david i]

At the peril of hearing from David I that it's somehow "just another copy" and therefore inferior to anything he would have, I am going to go ahead and post some pix of my Harbor Freight Tool Box filled with some of my pens and inks....

What I admit I found entertaining about Nom's post, besides his "worries" about me, regarding things I neither have said nor would say, was the rather concrete view of the word "inferior" regarding pen storage.

To those extensively familiar with pen storage-- say, having dealt in old pen sales and collecting for more than a decade, with collection and sales stock comprising some 5000 pens-- words such as "inferior" and "superior" have little place in discussion, when absent context.

Any pen storage offers trade offs, pluses and minuses, costs and benefits. Issues in play include (at least):



safety (both physical and perhaps more importantly... chemical)
cost/efficiency
convenience (wt/size/portability)
aesthetics (charm/beauty/what-have-you)
relevant history (original cases)



Since different people weigh these values differently, there can be no sweepingly "inferior" or "superior" item, though there can of course be inferior/superior elements to any category. A throw-away shoe box lined with home made cardboard dividers is not necessarily inferior to a $2000 artisan hand-carved wood case that holds 50 pens, if cheap storage is one's key target. A $2000 artisan hand-carved wood case is not necessarily superior to a vintage 1930's 40-pen case marked "Sheaffer" found for $300 on ebay if storing pens in historical store display carries more charm than modern hand-made products. One can create many permutations on this theme, obviously.

As to Gerstner, or Rolex/Omega... knockoffs have their place. I'm not a pro on high-end tool cases, but the original (minty) Gerstner I picked up when I bought a pen collection housed in it seems more solidly made than the knockoffs I've seen, but that does not matter for one who wants the look but not the price and plans to use said case only to house some pens. Similarly a $10 Rolex knockoff from Canal St in NYC might be superior for the needs (bling sans expense) of the fellow who chooses it over the $5k original. Different strokes for different folks.

But, in this FPGeeks discussion, which in my view seemed to focus on low cost and efficient storage of pens, I mentioned...


Next day or so, I really must post one of the most affordable desk top pen storage options in existence. So far I've shared only with a few pen friends...

I rarely offer such claims... without the oomph to back 'em.

That was meant as a nice offer. It is fine if folks prefer other options d/t their views of safety, charm, beauty, historical merit. But, ya will be hard pressed to top this thing for cost and efficiency of storage. All those tricked out pseudo-Gerstners just cannot hold candle to it.

But first, for fun, the eclectic wall in my NYC apartment: the mint real Gerstner case I was forced to acquire. Really don't have space for the thing. A so far one of its kind cyclindrical 1930's WASP (Sheaffer sub-brand) Clipper cabinet, loaded with circuit board pattern WASPS, various photos, mementos, a Star Trek model, Marvin Martion mug, Dragon Ball Z DVD's and more...


http://www.vacumania.com/penteech2/gerstnercase_fullwall1000a.jpg


Anyway, here is the bargain/efficient pen cabinet for your consideration. Details next post.


http://www.vacumania.com/essaypics/desktop_ten_tray-cabinet800a.jpg

regards

david

[david i]

So, the uber-efficient bargain basement storage solution for pens.

It measures 12 inches wide by 15 inches deep, probably 13-14 inches tall (I've not measured that axis), weighing in at a couple-few pounds. It has slots for tray labels and can be locked. It's not going to stop aggressive crooks, but helpful to keep trays sliding out during transport from your pen room to living room to show pens to visitors and such...


http://www.vacumania.com/essaypics/desktop_ten_tray-cabinet800a.jpg


Yeah, barely larger than the foot-print of the typical 48-pen notebook folders so prevalent in the hobby, it has ten trays. Lined with Gary-trays, each tray can hold 28 pens in slots, usually with room to rest 2-4 pens across slots between the two rows of pens. Let's say 30 pens per tray. Oh yeah... ten trays. 300 pens in a roughly 1 ft by 1 ft footprint. Cool. Right?

Most of my core collection is housed in the 100-140 year old Hamilton wooden case shown on the prior page of this discussion. But, even my own collection has outgrown that case, never mind sales stock. So some of my overflow has found its way to these 300-pen cabinets. The next image shows one of the trays, lined with Gary-slotter trays, housing the World's Most Complete collection of 1930's pens done in Screaming Souls in Purgatory celluloid.


http://www.vacumania.com/essaypics/desktop_ten_tray-cabinet800b.jpg

Not sure I mentioned, but to those of us who display pens en masse at pen shows, light gray tends to be the most desirable color for background. It does not distract from the pens, does not show dust.

Here is the pen cabinet with PENnant Magazine (i know the guy what wrote the Sheaffer article and provided that killer cover... cough... cough), the Magazine measuring just 8.5" by 11" and covering most of the cabinet top.


http://www.vacumania.com/essaypics/desktop_ten_tray-cabinet800c.jpg

I thought of buying up a bunch and offering them with Gary liners to the pen community, but truth is they are too bulky to buy by the dozen, what with my limited space in Manhattan.

To complete these cabinets for pen storage, one can buy 6-7 sheets of Gary liner (I recommend light gray). One just trims the sheet at the 14th slot and then can plop the sheet into a tray. After cutting up a few trays, the scraps can be used to fill the remaining trays in each cabinet.

Now, I do sell one of the most efficient means of taking pens for travel, the famous hardback 64-pen carry case. Here is one of my 64 pen travel cases propped next to the 300-pen Cabinet, whose small footprint and light weight amazes me even now.


http://www.vacumania.com/essaypics/desktop_ten_tray-cabinet800d.jpg

If anyone needs a 64-pen travel case, email me, as I have a few still in stock.

So, I've shown the efficiency of the 300pen cabinet. Tiny footprint. Tiny height (Ivan's case shown a bit earlier probably holds similar number of pens, but is a tad larger). Light weight. Lockable. Space for tray labels.

But, what is the cost? I had- after all- asserted cost and efficiency as benefits of this cabinet.

Well, the cabinets typically sell for $29, sometimes discounted to $23. Shipping in USA runs $15. Gary tray liners run $45 or so in quantity (6-7) to fill one cabinet. Figure $90 for 300-pen storage that fits in the corner of your desk.

And... there ya have it. Sorry took long to post this. Life is busy. I have not even had chance to post this yet at Fountain Pen Board. Figure the next few days there...

regards

david

[kps]

http://www.fuqiangwenju.com/propic/pro_17b.jpg
In case anyone has a cheap way to get stuff from China, or wants to freight a bunch, this is a Shantou Fuqiang Stationery Industry model FQ2610. They sell for around 90 CNY (15 USD) on Taobao.
http://www.fuqiangwenju.com/en/pro_v.asp?id=17

[david i]

$15 is better price than the $23-29 for which I've bought mine, but shipping small numbers (eg. individual orders) from China perhaps would more than make up the difference.

The 23-29 dollar price I had cited is from ebay, shipping from the USA within the USA. Might be easier than trying to fight for the extra $10 savings having to deal with overseas shipping.

Had I my old house and garage, I might stock 100 or so of these for resale, but as my NYC apartment cannot possibly handle that, I'm happy to see folks grab these directly.

regards

david

[kps]

Likely eBay is the cheapest source in North America, unless someone happens to find a retailer who stocks them or something similar.

[79spitfire]

What are these cabinets called?

[sloegin]

Anybody have a place that they can be bought? My Chinese is non-existent and online translators are only so much help.

[david i]

Anybody have a place that they can be bought? My Chinese is non-existent and online translators are only so much help.

Hi Jeremy,

That's why this offering is a bit of a gift. Took me a looong time to track this sort o' cabinet on ebay starting from scratch. Here's the link to the seller's store. The 10-tray case is the one discussed. There are other variants offered, perhaps of interest to those who wish to store fewer pens but who also would like to store ink, etc, in the same cabinet.

Enjoy...

http://www.ebay.com/sch/pro_models_88/m.html?item=220898204042&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEWAX%3AIT&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2562

regards

david

[sloegin]

Hi Jeremy,

That's why this offering is a bit of a gift. Took me a looong time to track this sort o' cabinet on ebay starting from scratch. Here's the link to the seller's store. The 10-tray case is the one discussed. There are other variants offered, perhaps of interest to those who wish to store fewer pens but who also would like to store ink, etc, in the same cabinet.

Enjoy...

http://www.ebay.com/sch/pro_models_88/m.html?item=220898204042&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEWAX%3AIT&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2562

regards

david

Hi David,

I see the appeal, so thank you for sharing. In digging around on the Chinese site they can be had for $10 for a single unit without shipping or a bulk discount. What do they weigh?...to find a box and calculate shiping them domestically, as it might be worth ordering a gaylord of them.

I'm still awaiting the other pen case :p

Best,
Jeremy

[david i]

Hi Jeremy,

That's why this offering is a bit of a gift. Took me a looong time to track this sort o' cabinet on ebay starting from scratch. Here's the link to the seller's store. The 10-tray case is the one discussed. There are other variants offered, perhaps of interest to those who wish to store fewer pens but who also would like to store ink, etc, in the same cabinet.

Enjoy...

http://www.ebay.com/sch/pro_models_88/m.html?item=220898204042&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEWAX%3AIT&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2562

regards

david

Hi David,

I see the appeal, so thank you for sharing. In digging around on the Chinese site they can be had for $10 for a single unit without shipping or a bulk discount. What do they weigh?...to find a box and calculate shiping them domestically, as it might be worth ordering a gaylord of them.

I'm still awaiting the other pen case :p

Best,
Jeremy

Crap. I forgot the travel case... again. I shall endeavor to ship by Thursday latest.

I can toss a ten-drawer case on postal scale. Doubt weighs more than 5-6 pounds. But... it is bulky

regards

david

[sloegin]

Hi Jeremy,

That's why this offering is a bit of a gift. Took me a looong time to track this sort o' cabinet on ebay starting from scratch. Here's the link to the seller's store. The 10-tray case is the one discussed. There are other variants offered, perhaps of interest to those who wish to store fewer pens but who also would like to store ink, etc, in the same cabinet.

Enjoy...

http://www.ebay.com/sch/pro_models_88/m.html?item=220898204042&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEWAX%3AIT&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2562

regards

david

Hi David,

I see the appeal, so thank you for sharing. In digging around on the Chinese site they can be had for $10 for a single unit without shipping or a bulk discount. What do they weigh?...to find a box and calculate shiping them domestically, as it might be worth ordering a gaylord of them.

I'm still awaiting the other pen case :p

Best,
Jeremy

Crap. I forgot the travel case... again. I shall endeavor to ship by Thursday latest.

I can toss a ten-drawer case on postal scale. Doubt weighs more than 5-6 pounds. But... it is bulky

regards

david
Shall I remind you tomorrow? :)

@5lbs, in a 13x16x12 first class mail is $12. Now to find a properly sized box.

[thagbert]

Pictures as promised.
34593460

Just noticed a partial selfie in the mirror!
Also noticed I haven't put the six bottles of Noodler's in there.

This box is awesome for the price I paid. Admittedly it's not quarter sawn oak, but that would have cost exponentially more. I am very satisfied.

Plenty of room to grow. I can't see myself outgrowing this box anytime soon. If I filled all of the drawers with a single layer, that would be 118 pens. I could double stack the top compartment if things really got ridiculous.

Also for those thinking about ordering one, here is a Harbor Freight coupon code for 25% off one item. Enter code at online check-out. The code is supposed to be good until the end of July. Code: 65002072

Thanks tandiana for the awesome tip!

Since these photos were made, I am using one of the smaller drawers for my currently inked pens. It holds twelve pens very nicely!

[KrazyIvan]

We have some blue print cabinets at work and looking at them got me wondering how many pens I could fit in one of these:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Flat-files-flat-file-blueprint-cabinet-many-to-choose-industrial-vintage-/330896493373?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4d0af7cb3d

http://i.ebayimg.com/t/Flat-files-flat-file-blueprint-cabinet-many-to-choose-industrial-vintage-/00/s/MjQwWDMyMA==/z/iwAAAMXQCtlRUFLI/$T2eC16d,!ysE9sy0jLFoBRUFLIbNeg~~60_1.JPG

[tandaina]

That would be cool. I like it made into a coffee table, you could fit a LOT of pens in that...

[Tracy Lee]

We have some blue print cabinets at work and looking at them got me wondering how many pens I could fit in one of these:

Oh wow, a lot but can you also imagine the awesome amount of stationery and paper storage? That would be a multi-tasker in the best way possible!

Sent from my Xoom using Tapatalk 2

[reprieve]

My box finally arrived from Harbor Freight today. (They packed and shipped my order quickly (great service!), but FedEx was slooooow.) It arrived safely and is quite handsome. All of the the drawers fit well and the hinges seem solid. My only complaint is that the locks appear to be a little flimsy (as in potentially breaking under normal non-abusive use). The top lock especially is prone to spinning round loosely a few times before the key catches. Nevertheless, the price for this cabinet is outstanding, especially with the coupon code posted above, and I am very happy with it. I'm still working on getting things organized. It's becoming clearer that I have too many pens--I didn't realize how many were hiding in Penvelopes and cigar boxes!

[reprieve]

After getting everything more or less sorted, here are some quick photos of my Harbor Freight wooden chest turned pen case.

Closed:
http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5536/9226652492_7c92feef94_o.jpg

The bottom large drawer filled with (mostly) modern Pelikan, Aurora, and Onoto:
http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3795/9226652418_d89d1746ff_o.jpg

A few drawers open:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7305/9223873203_7617773abe_o.jpg

I decided to hold off on putting pen trays in the top compartment, which is currently housing a 12-pen case (formerly a cigar box) along with some spare parts. I used 5 of the GoPens trays to outfit the eight drawers, but a little bit was wasted when I mistakenly mis-cut part of one; if not for that mishap, I could have gotten away with using 4 GoPens trays. While this case doesn't completely solve my storage issues, I am really enjoying its aesthetics.

[thagbert]

After getting everything more or less sorted, here are some quick photos of my Harbor Freight wooden chest turned pen case.

I decided to hold off on putting pen trays in the top compartment, which is currently housing a 12-pen case (formerly a cigar box) along with some spare parts. I used 5 of the GoPens trays to outfit the eight drawers, but a little bit was wasted when I mistakenly mis-cut part of one; if not for that mishap, I could have gotten away with using 4 GoPens trays. While this case doesn't completely solve my storage issues, I am really enjoying its aesthetics.

Thanks for the pix!

Were I to have the number of pens you do, I would would double stack the top compartment with some trays. I would build a tray that would inset into the top area. You could fit fifty-two pens in there.

[Mod_wolves]

So after a long time umming and aaahhing I finally decided to buy a box. Being from the UK a Harbour Freights box wasn't particularly feasible and after looking for many months at the boxes on chronos and warco I decided to look on eBay as well. There is where I found this

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/90-US-Pro-Tools-Wooden-Top-Tool-Box-Tool-Chest-Wood-Cabinet-Engineer-Machinists-/400600323592?pt=UK_Garage_Equipment_Tools_Tool_Box es_Storage&hash=item5d45a3d608

It is slightly bigger than the chronos box and is obviously darker varnish with a couple more draws (the middle one I am struggling with finding a use for) . I decided to bite the bullet a few days ago and make a bid and I won! It has arrived today and I have spent the last couple of hours having a great time sorting it out and enjoying the aesthetics of it all together in one place. I just need to buy some trays from gopens and I need to christen it with a brand spanking new pen.


http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/07/y9ybedyz.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/07/tu2a4yzy.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/07/4ejupabe.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/11/07/zadagedy.jpg

[tandaina]

That is lovely!

[Mags]

Wow that is a gorgeous pen case.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk (http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1)

[Jim2100]

Hi,
A very good idea to be sure. Where do you get the pen trays? Do you think most locations have them in stock. or are they online only?
Jim

[Goldfish]

Just ordered the box from Harbor Freight with 25% off coupon found online. Getting the trays, too. It's going to be a fun little project! Thanks to tandaina and all for the information.

[Mesu]

Very nice boxes.. Thanks for sharing.

I have been looking for a for a similar one in India.

[Mod_wolves]

Just ordered the box from Harbor Freight with 25% off coupon found online. Getting the trays, too. It's going to be a fun little project! Thanks to tandaina and all for the information.

You can get the trays from gopens.

https://www.gopens.com/Vintage_Pen_Parts/vintage_pens_12X16Trays.php

[Goldfish]

Thanks Mod_wolves, I ordered them! Maybe this or next weekend's project!!

[Runnin_Ute]

I noticed a couple of very nice, "attache" style cases on the harbor freight site that would work very nicely for pens. Just put in some foam and trim to needs for pens, inks etc. 11x7x4 and 18x12.75x6 as well as a 18x13x6. I will have to check them out in person.....

[Goldfish]

I was just reading yesterday's paper, and found a $59.99 coupon for the Harbour Freight tool chest on the back of USA Weekend. Tried to find it online but I couldn't. It's redeemable till April 29th, 2014 in store, online, or by telephone order.
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/30/nu3ybuge.jpg

[Goldfish]

Second try for the picture of my pen chest...8180

[Capn]

Goldfish, thank you. Tomorrow I'll place my order!!

[Ed333]

Just in case there is anyone who hasn't figured it out, that Harbor Freight price is ridiculously cheap for what you get. I realize the build quality is nowhere near the level of an old Gerstner (and neither is the 'new' Gerstner), but for this low impact use, what a deal! The only drawback, if you are an aesthete, and really appreciate the woods, joinery, details and multiple configurations of the old Gerstner Machinist's tool chests, you may want to take a deep breath and pony up the exponential dollars involved. I am fortunate enough to have several of the old Gerstner chests, in quarter sawn white oak and in walnut, and they are superb. One was my grandfathers (and I am 73!), a little careworn around the edges, but priceless to me. Someone mentioned the variant with a narrow deep drawer for a Machinists Handbook, and if you look at the photos of Mod_wolves chest (don't know maker), you will see such a drawer, in the middle. That is normally a fully sealed metal tray design, and that is the answer for your tall ink bottles, the ones which won't fit under the lid. Someone else posted a link to Garrett Wade, and a current version of chest and base, by Gerstner International. These are made in China, of plain-sawn red oak, not the same quality as the old made in USA white oak or walnut chests, but OK, if still a lot pricier than the Harbor freight knock-off.
Green felt was always applied to the drawers of the old ones, usually over sheet steel drawer bottoms. The International chests have wooden drawer bottoms, not as strong, but maybe better in this context. I have a large chest sitting on a large base, serving as a side table next to an easy chair in my living room. And that is the one where my pens are headed. I tried the display case/cigar box route inside my stand-up desk, but it is a pain lifting the top to get in and out so often, I need a third or fourth hand. And sometimes it will be nice to simply open a drawer and gaze fondly.
Incidentally, the mirror was a safety feature, it was all to easy in the bad old days to get a metal splinter or shaving/particle in your eye if you were working at a lathe, milling machine, or multi-head drill press, and you needed to get right after it. Working conditions were often dark, goggles could get in your way, and OSHA was nowhere in sight.
Finally, I hope the original poster has gotten over her initial adverse reaction to the aesthetics of the chest and its hardware, and has left it alone, accepting it for what it is, a machinist's tool chest transformed into an alternate use. it is an honest, functional design, quintessentially American, and should be respected. :)

[Ed333]

Another thought, I also have a Gerstner International Rolling Chest, in red oak, see
http://www.garrettwade.com/gerstner-international-medium-rolling-chest/p/96M01.06/
which would certainly have room for pens, paper supplies, tallest ink bottles, and provide a writing surface as well. Maybe a bit over the top for pens, but I have to admit that I have found mine useful. Mine arrived with some shipping damage to some edge grain wood, Garrett Wade made a very nice accommodation when I informed them, I wound up owning it for not too much. Mine has been invaluable for providing a moveable, handy storage and work unit for my luther's tools and supplies (mandolin making), which I can station right next to the workbench in the family room. When finished, I just unlock the wheels and move it back into its station against the wall and next to the bench, where it does not offend the eye of my spouse. The support arm for the hinged folding shelf on the right also doubles as a locking bar, which makes all the drawers secure when in place and locked. this is handy for when curious grandchildren and other people with inquiring minds come to visit.

[VertOlive]

This is quite nice...and a deal. But I just cannot picture having that many pens....feels like I'll top out at 15-20. This has inspired me to consider switching from a pen cup, though (!)

[gweddig]

Found this heavy locking metal case for $10, I think it was used to store report cards or some kind of paper records. I gutted the wire that held the paper and low and behold the Pendora slotters (http://pendorapens.com/collections/pen-tray-liner-inserts) fit perfectly. The trays are removable and you can't pull them out all the way or they will flop down. I still have to find a key for the slide out door but that's low priority.

Did I mention it weighs about 20 lbs and now has space for 154 pens.


http://fpgeeks.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=13958&d=1410652102

http://fpgeeks.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=13959&d=1410652168

http://fpgeeks.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=13957&d=1410652084

[Crazyorange]

Wow. Impressive. Thanks for posting.

[Tracy Lee]

Found this heavy locking metal case for $10, I think it was used to store report cards or some kind of paper records. I gutted the wire that held the paper and low and behold the Pendora slotters (http://pendorapens.com/collections/pen-tray-liner-inserts) fit perfectly. The trays are removable and you can't pull them out all the way or they will flop down. I still have to find a key for the slide out door but that's low priority.

Did I mention it weighs about 20 lbs and now has space for 154 pens.


http://fpgeeks.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=13958&d=1410652102

http://fpgeeks.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=13959&d=1410652168

http://fpgeeks.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=13957&d=1410652084

Huge!!!! Wow.

[Nomdeplume]

Help!
In the move from Colorado to California the main key for my Harbor Freight converted toolbox, is MISSING!
Harbor Freight does NOT have any keys...either need a really good thief or an expensive locksmith!?

[KKay]

I'd get a locksmith. They used to open cars for 25 bucks. I don't know what the going rate is now though.

That is sweet. I really like that Acme cabinet!

[scrivelry]

Help!
In the move from Colorado to California the main key for my Harbor Freight converted toolbox, is MISSING!
Harbor Freight does NOT have any keys...either need a really good thief or an expensive locksmith!?

Have you solved this problem yet?

If you have not, have you tried all the keys anyone you know has which sort of remind you of what the key looked like?

Some locks are pretty much all the same. The key is more to keep the very casually interested out, or to keep the thing from falling open. Others are moderately secure and vary from article to article. If you are near a Harbor freight, could you bring your case in and see if they have a floor model with key whose key could be tried in yours? If it works, then you could take a picture of the key and at least know what you are looking for.

On the other hand, you can probably get a lock-pick set cheap off ebay and it might be the opening for a whole new career for you... ;-)

[sethk]

I was wondering if the original poster (or any of the other people who bought the Harbor Freight toolboxes) would mind sharing if they are still happy with their purchase?

I'm debating buying one of these for my pen, ink, pencils, and random small items, and would appreciate the input. I currently have one of these (https://smile.amazon.com/TRINITY-TWM-3501-Wood-Toolbox-Brown/dp/B00Y3IR5M6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1488832845&sr=8-1&keywords=trinity+tool+box)toolboxes in my garage, and have been rather happy with it. I also found that the center drawer fits 3oz Noodler's bottles, which the HF one apparently doesn't.

I'd definitely appreciate the long-term feedback/review of those toolboxes.

[archaturism]

I have one of these: http://www.shopnbc.com/Invicta_Three_Slot_Impact_Dive_Case/604-896.aspx?storeid=1&track=-20101&cm_re=SearchList-_-N-_-N&page=LIST&free_text=invicta%20dive%20boxes

and one of these:
http://www.shopnbc.com/Invicta_Eight_Slot_Dive_Collector_Box/604-813.aspx?storeid=1&track=-20101&cm_re=SearchList-_-N-_-N&page=LIST&free_text=invicta%20dive%20boxes

for some of my watches. They could easily be configured to handle pens and inks.

A bit oversized for my current needs, but that Harbor Freight box is real nice...I know it's an old thread, but when I saw the brand invicta I remembered a few years ago they started their own line of fountain pens (but doesn't seem to have continued). Anybody ever bought an Invicta Russian Diver fountain pen or another one from them? Curious about people's experience of them

Sent from my Alcatel 6055U using Tapatalk

[Rapidray]

Resurrection - and well worth it. While I was in Dallas last week, I found this thread. I read Tandaine’s post and knew I would have this ASAP. Picked it up today. Next stop is Go Pens for the pen/pencil holders. I had to go to 4 different stash places and now everything is ‘home’ under one roof now. One of my best buys I have made. I usually will not buy anything at retail price but I was smiling all the way home and not minding I paid the $80.00. I’m a happy camper.

[Rapidray]

Another photo...