After DIYing plastic beads, there will always be storage problems. Scattered beads will not only affect the next use but also may cause safety hazards. This article will share 7 quick storage tips to help you efficiently organize various types of plastic beads and make handmade creations easier and more enjoyable.
Basic principles of classification and storage
1. Classification and storage by size is the most basic method. Prepare transparent storage boxes of different specifications to store large, medium and small plastic beads respectively. It is recommended to use medicine boxes to pack micro beads below 2mm to avoid mixing with large beads and making them difficult to use.
2. The color classification method is suitable for collectors with rich beads. The rainbow color arrangement order is used to store them from red to purple. Beads of the same color but different shades can be classified with the help of color cards to ensure a natural color transition.
3. Material classification cannot be ignored. Plastic beads, glass beads, and wooden beads should be stored separately. In particular, metal beads need to be placed separately to avoid oxidation and discoloration affecting the quality of other beads.
Recommended practical storage containers
1. Transparent plastic compartment boxes are the best choice, and each compartment should hold 50-100 beads. The lid should have a sealing strip to prevent moisture or spillage. It is recommended to choose a stackable style to save space.
2. The revolving spice rack is very suitable for storing commonly used beads after modification. Each layer is placed in different colors, and it is time-saving and labor-saving to rotate and take them out. The height of the rack should not exceed 50cm to ensure stability and prevent children from knocking them over.
3. Magnetic storage boards are suitable for metal bead sorting. Cover the thin iron plate with soft magnetic stickers, and the beads will automatically absorb and arrange. The board surface can mark the color zone division, and vertical storage can also intuitively display the collection.
Quick collection skills
1. The desktop bead absorber is very simple to make. Put the old stockings on the vacuum cleaner nozzle and adjust it to the lowest gear. This can quickly absorb the loose beads without sucking them into the pipe. After collecting, untie the stockings and pour them out.
2. Make your own template for collecting beads. Fold a funnel-shaped groove with cardboard, and stick wide tape on the surface to increase the smoothness. Tilt the template so that the scattered beads will naturally roll into the bottom container, greatly improving the collection efficiency.
3. The floor-style bead collection method is suitable for large-scale scattering. Spread the old bed sheet flat and gently shake the work area. Lighter beads will remain on the cloth, while heavy objects will fall. Finally, lift the four corners of the bed sheet and pour it into the container.
Storage environment management
1. Moisture-proof measures are critical. Place 1-2 packs of food-grade desiccant in each storage box. Especially for wooden beads and paper beads, a humid environment can easily cause mold and deformation. It is recommended to replace the desiccant every month.
2. Keep away from light to delay fading. Choose an opaque storage box or store it in a drawer. Colored plastic beads will gradually fade if exposed to sunlight for a long time, affecting the effect of the work.
3. Pay attention to temperature control. The storage environment should be kept at 15-25℃ for the best. Avoid placing plastic beads next to radiators or in places with large temperature differences such as balconies. Excessive temperature will cause plastic beads to deform and stick together.
Child-safe storage
1. It is necessary to choose a storage box with a lock, especially for beads with a diameter of less than 3cm. A safe with a double buckle design can effectively prevent children from opening it by mistake, and the key should be stored in a high place.
2. The hazard warning sign should be eye-catching, and a "Do not swallow" warning sticker should be affixed to the storage container. Even if a transparent box is used, a warning word should be affixed to the inside of the lid as an extra reminder.
3. High storage is the basic principle, and the height of the storage rack should be more than 1.5 meters. It is best to fix it on the wall to avoid the risk of climbing and tipping, while making it convenient for adults to use.
Good storage habits can keep the plastic beads neat and orderly, improve manual efficiency and ensure home safety. Choose a suitable storage method, organize and maintain it regularly, and your handmade materials will always be in order, ready to meet creative challenges at any time.