Camping Spice Rack from a Tackle Box
by Kurt Huber | Published 12/18/2021
I am always thinking about camping problems and potential solutions that I can make in the basement. These solutions have to be useful, and still unique (as in there is not already a thousand examples on Esty). One of the problems I have been noodling over is how to store and carry cooking spices in a convenient way. After much thought and experimentation I have come up with... nothing. At least nothing I can make and sell. But during this process I did notice something that you might find useful. Certain tackle boxes are the perfect size to hold standard spice jars.
Pictured above in a old Plano 3700 tackle box that perfectly holds a dozen typical Spice Jars. (actually eleven regular spice jars and two half height ones ones). This particular example has been kicking about my house for a while.
The 3700 is sort of a standard size tackle box with typical dimensions of around 14" X 9" by 2" , with four long molding in dividers that can be sub dived with little plastic walls. Searching the internet will bring up many examples. Of course Walmart carries an Ozark Trail Example.
You will notice that the Ozark Trail version is "Improved" with better latches and built in handles, which is probably fine when dealing with tackles but does cut into the row by these latches a little bit, making the compartments smaller. Below I managed to squeeze in the salt and pepper shaker, which are a little smaller then a typical spice jar, near the latches. The handle takes up a lot of space sort of ruing the compartment for a jar of any type, but I threw in some sugar packets to make myself feel better and prove the space was useful for something.
The Plano example I have above does not seem to be available anymore, and they have similarly improved version with fancier latches, but it looks like they might have maintained the Inside dimensions and made the outside a little bigger, so it might be worth the eight dollar price of admission, verses the three and a half bucks for the Ozark Trials version. Either seems a good way to carry and organize full size spice jars if that is your goal, so don't be looking for a solution from me soon.
Quick Update 9/30/23.. I noticed Harbor Freight Tools has a completely clear, non branded version, if that is what you want / need.
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A Toilet Paper Dispenser for Camping
by Kurt Huber | Published 2/21/2021
We are excited to "roll out" our newest* product the Camping Toilet Paper Holder. This box will keep your most important papers cleaner, dryer and makes them easy to access. If you are sick of dealing with crushed, dirty toilet paper when you are in the great outdoors, I believe you have found the perfect solution.
*A year ago I created what I called the Sample Camping Kitchen Box. It was a short version of the drawer with a little lid. At the time I could not think of a really good use for it (besides as a sample) , but recently I was lurking on the camping equipment forum of expedition portal and saw a thread about toilet paper dispensers. Eureka! The box is just the right size for a roll (or a double roll) and look how easily it dispenses!
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New from the Workshop.. a Flatware roll for the Camping Kitchen Box
by Kurt Huber | Published 1/23/2021
Fresh from the workshop is the new Flatware Roll created for the Camping Kitchen Box. This is designed to hang from the back of the box in place of the paper towel holder. When it is not hanging, you can roll it up and stash it neatly in one of the drawers of the Camping Kitchen Box, keeping your flatware organized and rattle free.
The cutlery roll is sewn by me on my mother's 1956 Singer, which had recently come into my possession. Sewing was not my mom’s passion, though she did sew some awesome curtains for me and my brothers’ boat themed bedroom. The machine sat for many years, but after some cleaning and oiling, it is running like.. well a sewing machine. It doesn't do anything fancy (just straight stitches) but it is plenty strong and a pleasure to use. I’m looking forward to continuing to sharpen my sewing skills.
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A Stand for the Camping Kitchen Box Chuck Box
by Kurt Huber | Published 11/3/2020
Some one wrote (messaged? that is what we do now right?) the other day and asked about a stand for the Camping Kitchen Box. We don't make one as we have not been able to come up with a better solution then what is already available. What follows are some suggestions arranged them from lightest to heaviest, which also pretty much corresponds to "Might be a little wobbly" to "Very Sturdy"
Coleman Stove Stand
The first solution is the Coleman Stove Stand It weighs less then 4 pounds and it will hold up the box no problem, but will probably have the most sway compared to other options.
Camp Time Narrow Roll-a-Table
The Camp Time Narrow Roll-a-Table is almost a perfect fit. The top is 32" X 22" inches and only weighs 8lbs. There is also a version available with adjustable legs.
Walmart Folding Table
The Mainstays 40 Plastic Adjustable Height Fold-in-Half Folding Table from Walmart is a little bit heavier at 12 ½ pounds, but it is very sturdy. The top is 40" X 20" which is large enough for the box with some work space left over. It also features adjustable legs giving you height options.
If you don't like Walmart, the Lifetime 4' Fold-In-Half Adjustable Table is similar , with a little larger top (48" X 24") but also weighs more (around 20 lbs.)
What about the table that I have featured all over the web site? Well that table is OK, but next time I buy something it will probably be one of the above options. It is light weight, and corresponding a little wobbly. I think I originally got mine at Target years ago when they sold more camping equipment, and it is no longer available, but you can find similar items by googling.
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