I love simple things that are built well and that are sold for a fair price. I bought a set of 50 for around $13 off Amazon.
Years ago I made a dozen or so using a wood dowel. They have seen better days and it was time to either make more or buy some. I’d be hard pressed to make 50 for only $13. More than that though–the time spent doing it.
The clips are pretty decent quality. I’d say better than the ones I had used to make my own. The wire is stiff enough to hold most any part.
They make miniature clothespins that have wooden jaws with no teeth. I use them a lot. They have no rod attached, but i grab the mini-clothespin with a full size one to hold the model/part with.
They even make sub-mini clothespins, but I don’t use them much. The spring is too weak to hold much, and they misalign easily, but the mini ones are great.
That’s interesting, Don. You should post a link to them.
If Rambo’s concern is the marring of plastic-- the aligator clips WILL do so. It is minimal, but they do mar. I tested that this morning. For my work flow it is a non-issue. I attach the clips to areas that are not seen, and there are ways around instances where that is not available to do so. I am sure Rambo has a very good reason for wanting them toothless. So–maybe the clothspin option may work?
This sounds like a good idea I’ll look for some of them mini clothespins. Yeah marring the plastic is a concern but want something to replace the clips on my third hand station too.
Last time I was in Michaels they had the mini-clothspins. Originally got mine at Model Expo. Model Expo is the only source I know who has the micro ones, but I do not find them as useful. I have them- they are cute- but don’t work real well. Not a very strong spring so they don’t hold a very heavy part.
I usually put a couple of layers of masking tape on each jaw of the 'gator clips to make smooth jaws…if you put the last layer on sticky side out it helps hold tiny stuff.
Not crazy about the toothed jaws. You’ll risk making marks on plastic parts while painting. Don‘t use them to hold tiny / delicate parts. Otherwise, you’ll experience the dreaded “poink” of losing them forever.
Had never seen these, didn’t know they existed and they look good. Thanks for the enlightenment.
Steve, what are the rods your clips are attached to made of, and did they come attached? Mine finally came. I guess I ordered a slightly different set. Mine have wood stems and I guess I am supposed to attach the alligator clips to the stems.
