This new thread is to share things of a non-wargaming origin that can be put to good use for modelling, painting or gaming. The recent discussion on using cable ties for discarded tank tracks would be a case in point.
Mine today is a plastic Christmas pudding bowl from a UK supermarket. I have a couple of these now, and they are great for mixing terrain basing paints / gravel / gunk. They are nice and stable with a wide opening and so far wash up well after use.
The best thing of course (for those that like these things) is that you get to eat the contents first.
(https://i.postimg.cc/pm34hXz3/20230124-205203.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/pm34hXz3)
Simon
Hi Simon
I can help with the latter
Stewart
I use the metal lids and bases of malt whisky cartons as paint palettes. Again the contents will have been consumed by the painter, which probably explains some of my paint jobs!
John
One of the local coffee houses gives away free bags of used coffee grounds as composting material. Once dried out this makes great basing material. Mixes well with PVA, is fine while still being course enough to look like mud and still has that faint coffee odour. Perfect for early morning gaming.
Derek
For aerials for vehicles, try searching for "security loops fasteners" the things you get attached to new clothes.
For example:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Yesallwas-2000Pcs-Security-Plastic-Fastener/dp/B083JWQWF9/ref=asc_df_B083JWQWF9?tag=bingshoppinga-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=79852124627163&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvbmt=be&hvdev=t&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=&hvtargid=pla-4583451676864810&psc=1
They come in black as well as white. The end even looks like the base of an aerial. Cut to preferred length.
Neil
My latest find is bamboo trays at Ikea, with low edges and good sizes for holding troops off table:
https://www.ikea.com/gb/en/p/ostbit-tray-bamboo-30452991/
(https://www.bing.com/th?id=OIP.LBnDWGScsuvxk97DBXzsUQHaHa&w=176&h=185&c=8&rs=1&qlt=90&o=6&pid=3.1&rm=2)
They come in both 25 x 33cm (£7) and 30 x 40cm (£8) sizes.
Simon
Very good for troops, Markers etc.
Miles
That is indeed the plan, Miles!
Also good for putting bits of part-built scenery on and moving them back off the kitchen table... ;)
Simon
You'll have to leave a review on their website with a full explanation how your using the tray. Other folks have done so :)
I think there's a strong possibility that I'd befuddle the average Ikea customer with any such review, Simmo! ;D
Simon
On the way back from the beach today, I dropped into my favourite model railway store - Buffers of Axminster (of James May's "my kind of model shop" fame).
It's something of an Aladdin's Cave for general modellers as well as rail enthusiasts - I get my nickel silver wire (for aerials - and perhaps Musketeer's swords soon too?) there.
Today's Fortuitous Find was a pack of replacement resistance wires for my foam cutter. I'd forgotten I needed some until I saw them there.
Buffers also has a very full range of MIG paints and weathering effects as well as the most complete set of Woodland Scenics scenery that I've ever seen in one place. They're a friendly bunch in the shop, and will even make you a cuppa if you ask nicely.
Simon