Jewelry case spings/hinges

[Hudson Carpentry]

I have been asked to quote for some small jewelry case like ring boxes and necklace boxes. Now then I assume these cases use a spring and very small hinge. The hinge isn't a problem but any ideas on where to buy the spring? If not and they use a sprung hinge then I haven't a clue regarding suppliers.

Can anybody help regarding suppliers.

Thank you.

 

[Gerard Scanlan]

What about letter box springs?
You can also make your own spring hinges with steel spring wire.
Fix an electric drill in your bench vice - do not plug it in- then secure the end of the wire in the drill chuck along with a nail the same thinckness as the hinge pin.
Then while holding the free end of the steel wire tightly with a pair of pliers rotate the chuck with your other hand. This wraps the wire into a spring, a couple of turns is all you need for a spring of this size.
Once your spring is complete, saw out one of the centre lugs from the hinge and replace it with the spring as you reinsert the hinge pin. Voilla!

It is a trial and error thing to get it just right and wear gloves and glasses because if the wire springs free from your hand it can give you a nasty cut.

 

[Hudson Carpentry]

Good idea. Any idea on where to get spring wire from. I wanted some spring steel a few months ago and had trouble and was only quoted unhappy.

 

[PerranOak]

Where do you get the hinges?

 

[Hudson Carpentry]

Well I was going to use these http://www.rutlands.co.uk/cabinet-hardw ... box-hinges if there was a different why to spring (snap) the case open/shut.

 

[brianhr]

Visit your local locksmith (a proper locksmith, not a key cutter). It is likely that springs for a sash lock or similar could be adapted.

Brian

 

[PerranOak]

I find it all too big. Big hinges. Big screws. They're for coffin makers!!!