Small Box Catches

TIMP · 17 Feb 2006

Hi.
Can anyone help ? Why can't I find anywhere that supplies small box catches, the type of thing that you would find on a canteen of cutlery.
They must be out there somewhere. I used to be able to get them from Hobbycraft (I think I must have bought their entire stock but have now run out and they have stopped doing them). So, unless I'm the only person in the UK making small ornate boxes, what do you other guys do?
Any info will be gratefully received (and hopefully improve my stress rash!!)

Timmmmmmm.

Mod Edit Moved to buying advice. Adam

devonwoody · 17 Feb 2006

If you ever have time to visit car boot sales and can pick up boxes that have catches you might rebuild a stock cheaper than sourcing new items.(and hinges)

Steve Maskery · 17 Feb 2006

Hi Tim,
Welcome to the forum.

Can't help you on the catches, but I might be able to suggest alternatives.

Have you thought of making your own wooden ones? THere was an article recently in one of the American mags (FWW or PW) about this. If I find it I let you have the ref.

Rare earth magnets are gaining popularity for closure applications. Axminster sell them. I've recently designed (in my head, so far!) a sliding magnetic catch that is invisible once installed.

Anyway, food for thought.
Cheers
Steve

Adam · 17 Feb 2006

Welcome to the forum....

How about Issac Lord? Or Lee Valley in their Hardware, fastners and fixings catalgoue?

Adam

Bean · 17 Feb 2006

I have not yet found any really nice small catches, so i use magnets, If you check the internet you can get them cheaper that Axminster. For really small magnets try Maplins electronics store they usully stock 3mm dia great for small boxes

Bean