How Do you Organize screws?

[SaltyGirl]

For every boat project it seems that I need a different type or size of screw. I'd like to have an assortment onboard, but I need an efficient, space-saving method of organizing. The hard plastic organizers allow for easy identification, but with so many different types of screws, will take too much space. Ziplock or sandwich bags take up less space, but I want a way to file? them for quick access. How do you organize such items?

[imagine2frolic]

I think it was Home Depot where I found these. Small plastic containers about the size of a small tomatoe paste can. A rubber lid on top so when you squeeze it would open. It also came with small mounts for the wall, and the container would slip onto it, and be held in place. With one hand you can remove the container from the wall, and shake out some screws.......i2f

[scottyt]

i keep them in small zip locks in a plastic bin from walmart. the same bin has lanacote and my drill bits and taps

[erps]

I picked up a couple of plastic boxes with individual bins at the local sporting goods store used by fishermen for their lures. Very reasonably priced.

[oceanscapt]

Good question.

I organize them by type (machine, wood, nut) and make (SS, brass, nylon). I put them in small zip lock bags and then store them in plastic trays with covers (and rubber bands over the covers to prevent spillage). I label the plastic box and top with a generic code such as SS-M-#4-#10 which I decode as stainless, machine, #4 to #10 screws, nuts, and washers (if applicable). The boxes sit low in the boat as they tend to get a bit heavy.

I also carry threaded rod (which you didn't ask about) for those "custom" jobs. Those I spray with WD-40 and wrap in plastic then paper. I write the info on a piece of tape and attach it to the package.

I have a fairly detailed inventory of what's on board, and try to keep it current.

Hope that helps.

[TejasSailer]

The container store has parts organizers that are bit pricy and take up room, but that is what we use. I use the medium size - one for shackles, one for electrical connecters and two for screws and bolts.

The Container Store > Parts Organizers

[Sabreman]

I use a highly sophisticated system that involves tossing all small parts into an old plastic jig saw box (about 12" x 12" x 4"). It's been in the family for about 35 years; started by my dad. When he sold his last boat, I interited the "box". Whenever I buy a screws or nuts or "stuff", I buy a couple extra and toss them in. When I have to do a job, I rarely need to look far for an appropriate factener, shackle, washer, or doodad. Larger stuff is stored in baby wipe boxes, sorted by type (electrical, plumbing, woodworking, and a dedicated hoseclamp box).

[WanderingStar]

Organized screws? A staight line in search of a joke.

[SEMIJim]

Originally Posted by WanderingStar

Organized screws? A staight line in search of a joke.

I was gonna say: "Organized? Huh. Usually they just kinda... happen." "Organized" kind of implies a... you know... *cough* "party." Or perhaps a visit to/from a lady of negotiable affection.



Jim

[Survivor]

I picked up an organizer at Harbor Freight. It actually has top and bottom trays that are hinged and have removable seperators. I was able to organize a pretty extensive collection of screws and seperate them by self tapping screws, small bolts, nuts, washers, etc. Of course some of the sizes are mixed but it's easy to get the size you want. In the bottom tray I've got many sizes and types of electrical connectors. Size of the organizer is approx 10 x 12.