Storing and Caring for Files

by Judy Larson
If we work with metal, we have files-sometimes many of them. How to keep them in good shape is a problem when you don't have a drawer to store them in. Desktop storage is also problematic if your work surface is small.
Instructions
Since I work mostly with silver, all the files I use on silver are in an old pewter cup on my desktop. Its heavy base and shape keeps the cup from tipping over. The files I use with base metals are in a clean plastic peanut butter jar and kept in a cupboard with those metals so there is no chance of cross-contamination of filings.
Judy Larson's Storing and Caring for Files - , Tools For Wire Jewelry, Tools, , , storing and caring for files
The files I own each have their uses, and I reach for one or more of them often when working on a project. Some files I do not worry about replacing because they were very inexpensive and not really meant to last long. I have found that when you pay more for a higher end file, the better and easier it works and the longer it lasts-sometimes for a lifetime.

Inexpensive files will last only a bit longer with proper care than without, so they are mixed up in my cup. Some of my hardware store files have been replaced several times because the filing surface wore down to the point that they did not work as well as they should. I have replaced the "diamond dust" files several times, as well.
Judy Larson's Storing and Caring for Files - , Tools For Wire Jewelry, Tools, , , storing and caring for files
However, there are some files I take care in storing in the cup, especially since I use them as often as the inexpensive ones. Since I want them to last and work well for years to come, I store my expensive really good files in the pouches they came in. I also keep some of my better shorter needle files a divided pouch I saved when I threw some old files out. These files are easily accessible and not in danger of getting dinged/damaged by the files out in the open.
If I had drawers for storing files, or a larger work surface to space out my files, I would not be storing my files this way. However, we all have to work with what we have and this works for me.
Judy Larson's Storing and Caring for Files - , Tools For Wire Jewelry, Tools, , , storing and caring for files

Materials

No materials listed

Tools

10 Piece Diamond Needle Files - 140mm X 3mm
G14-8
  • G14-8
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $13.57
  • Gold Club Price: $10.18
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GROBET FILE - BARRETTE CUT 2, 6"
FIL-31.030
  • FIL-31.030
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $31.20
  • Gold Club Price: $23.40
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GROBET FILE - BARRETTE CUT 4, 6"
FIL-31.031
  • FIL-31.031
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $35.10
  • Gold Club Price: $26.33
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GROBET FILE - HALF ROUND RING CUT 2, 6"
FIL-31.130
  • FIL-31.130
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $42.30
  • Gold Club Price: $31.73
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  • Category: Tools
  • Technique(s): Tools, Storage, General Education