When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

If it is not clear what I mean, I'll post a drawing tomorrow.

MM

On 1/6/2017 7:00 PM, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

If it is not clear what I mean, I'll post a drawing tomorrow.

MM

I recognise the problem, I like your solution as being in the true
spirit of DIY.

You used to be able to get "sleeves" which are designed to take a single
lever arch file, that's another solution which I have in my filing
system. Not sure if they are still readily available though. Couldn't
immediately spot them on eBay.

The "sleeves" are also useful (open end upwards) for filing a couple of
inches of reprints / reports etc on shelves, if you have too many for a
standard manilla folder.

There is also these

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Q-Connect-...AOSwUKxYa3q A

I have a couple of them in my system too.

On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

If you were to do that, it would also mean you could store the files
flat, and thus avoid the other problem of the paper sagging within the file.

Clive George Wrote in message:
On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

If you were to do that, it would also mean you could store the files
flat, and thus avoid the other problem of the paper sagging within the file.



We call them "box files" :-)

--
Jim K


----Android NewsGroup Reader----
http://usenet.sinaapp.com/

MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

Since this is DIY, go with the home-made blocks :-)

If it is not clear what I mean, I'll post a drawing tomorrow.

MM

On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

If it is not clear what I mean, I'll post a drawing tomorrow.

Lever Arch Box File?

http://www.staples.co.uk/80mm-foolsc...297716244.html

On 06/01/17 21:00, MM wrote:
Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.
Its called a 'box' file

On Fri, 6 Jan 2017 20:34:34 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

Clive George Wrote in message:
On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

If you were to do that, it would also mean you could store the files
flat, and thus avoid the other problem of the paper sagging within the file.



We call them "box files" :-)

I also have proper box files, but I have circa 20 ordinary lever arch
files -- wide ones and narrow ones -- so to replace them all with
box files would cost, ooh, fifty quid? Nah! Little blocks is what I
need. For free with my trusty saw and some offcuts.

MM

On Fri, 6 Jan 2017 21:36:28 +0000, "Dan S. MacAbre"
wrote:

MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

Since this is DIY, go with the home-made blocks :-)

Looks like I'm going to have to brave the cold, then! My
garage/workshop is unheated and I usually do this kind of thing in the
spring and summer.

MM

On Fri, 6 Jan 2017 23:01:31 +0000, Fredxxx wrote:

On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

If it is not clear what I mean, I'll post a drawing tomorrow.

Lever Arch Box File?

Sure, but I have approx 20 of these files (I've already done a spring
clean and reduced the number from about 50). To replace the 20 with
box files would cost around 50 quid if I bought them from Wilko.

MM

On Sat, 7 Jan 2017 06:42:20 +0200, The Natural Philosopher
wrote:

On 06/01/17 21:00, MM wrote:
Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.
Its called a 'box' file

Nope. A box file is what you buy. I already have box files. I have
some of them as well. But I'm not about to replace 20 *lever arch
files* with box files! It'd cost at least fify quid. Plus, box files
are too wide and take up too much shelf space. Most of my lever arch
files are only 42mm thick.

MM

On Friday, 6 January 2017 19:00:49 UTC, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

An alternative to altering the files would be to put blocks on the shelf for the file edges to slide between, or replace or cover the shelf with a new shelf that had grooves routed in it.



Owain

On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

If it is not clear what I mean, I'll post a drawing tomorrow.

MM

JOOI, what spec are your files? With all the lever arch files I have
(admittedly mainly 70mm) such blocks would not leave enough room for A4
paper (with the paper punched conventionally).

--
Robin
reply-to address is (intended to be) valid

MM wrote:
On Fri, 6 Jan 2017 21:36:28 +0000, "Dan S. MacAbre"
wrote:

MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

Since this is DIY, go with the home-made blocks :-)

Looks like I'm going to have to brave the cold, then! My
garage/workshop is unheated and I usually do this kind of thing in the
spring and summer.

MM


Last year, I read Zamoyski's account of the defeated French trudging
home from Moscow in the Winter of 1812 in their tattered uniforms (some
even in women's dresses) and often no shoes. Most of them died. I'll
never complain about the cold again :-)

On Sat, 7 Jan 2017 11:43:29 +0000, "Dan S. MacAbre"
wrote:

MM wrote:
On Fri, 6 Jan 2017 21:36:28 +0000, "Dan S. MacAbre"
wrote:

MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

Since this is DIY, go with the home-made blocks :-)

Looks like I'm going to have to brave the cold, then! My
garage/workshop is unheated and I usually do this kind of thing in the
spring and summer.

MM


Last year, I read Zamoyski's account of the defeated French trudging
home from Moscow in the Winter of 1812 in their tattered uniforms (some
even in women's dresses) and often no shoes. Most of them died. I'll
never complain about the cold again :-)

Yes, and that was REAL cold, no doubt. This morning the temperature in
my kitchen was 16.3 degrees. Maybe I'll have to switch the heating on,
whaddya think?

MM

On Sat, 7 Jan 2017 02:14:45 -0800 (PST),
wrote:

On Friday, 6 January 2017 19:00:49 UTC, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

An alternative to altering the files would be to put blocks on the shelf for the file edges to slide between, or replace or cover the shelf with a new shelf that had grooves routed in it.

Yes, a possibility that I had actually considered a while ago, but
that would mean that if you scrapped a file, the blocks would still be
present.

Someone earlier mentioned sleeves, and I'm starting to think they
would be best. Effectively, turning each and every lever arch file
into a box file, but still retaining the handiness of lever arch
files.

However, a lot more work than just making tiny wood blocks. If I
choose the right stock I can just saw off 20 or so in a matter of
minutes, like chopping spring onions.

MM

On Sat, 07 Jan 2017 02:14:45 -0800, spuorgelgoog wrote:

On Friday, 6 January 2017 19:00:49 UTC, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain only
a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the 'open' end
(facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent files.

An alternative to altering the files would be to put blocks on the shelf
for the file edges to slide between, or replace or cover the shelf with
a new shelf that had grooves routed in it.

I'm using quadrant shaped booksleves of the corner of the desk. They work
nicely!



--
My posts are my copyright and if @diy_forums or Home Owners' Hub
wish to copy them they can pay me £1 a message.
Use the BIG mirror service in the UK: http://www.mirrorservice.org
*lightning surge protection* - a w_tom conductor

On Sat, 7 Jan 2017 10:36:54 +0000, Robin wrote:

On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

If it is not clear what I mean, I'll post a drawing tomorrow.

MM

JOOI, what spec are your files? With all the lever arch files I have
(admittedly mainly 70mm) such blocks would not leave enough room for A4
paper (with the paper punched conventionally).

That is actually a very good point, but I have checked a few files and
there is room enough for a small block in most of them. It depends
whether one files plain A4 sheets or A4 in plastic punched pockets. I
have a mix of both.

MM

MM wrote:
On Sat, 7 Jan 2017 11:43:29 +0000, "Dan S. MacAbre"
wrote:

MM wrote:
On Fri, 6 Jan 2017 21:36:28 +0000, "Dan S. MacAbre"
wrote:

MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

Since this is DIY, go with the home-made blocks :-)

Looks like I'm going to have to brave the cold, then! My
garage/workshop is unheated and I usually do this kind of thing in the
spring and summer.

MM


Last year, I read Zamoyski's account of the defeated French trudging
home from Moscow in the Winter of 1812 in their tattered uniforms (some
even in women's dresses) and often no shoes. Most of them died. I'll
never complain about the cold again :-)

Yes, and that was REAL cold, no doubt. This morning the temperature in
my kitchen was 16.3 degrees. Maybe I'll have to switch the heating on,
whaddya think?

MM


I just switch it off in April, on in October, and then let the
thermostat keep it at very approximate 20 degrees. I would be inclined
to have it on less than that, because I don't really notice temperature,
but the Italian missus complains a lot when she feels cold :-) I always
imagined we'd retire to Italy, since she is still Italian national, but
that might not be an option in the future. We may actually have to get
married!

On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

If it is not clear what I mean, I'll post a drawing tomorrow.

MM


Use box files which have an internal spring flap to hold the contents.

MM Wrote in message:
On Fri, 6 Jan 2017 20:34:34 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

Clive George Wrote in message:
On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

If you were to do that, it would also mean you could store the files
flat, and thus avoid the other problem of the paper sagging within the file.



We call them "box files" :-)

I also have proper box files, but I have circa 20 ordinary lever arch
files -- wide ones and narrow ones -- so to replace them all with
box files would cost, ooh, fifty quid? Nah! Little blocks is what I
need. For free with my trusty saw and some offcuts.

MM


If all these only contain "a few sheets" wouldn't you be better
off amalgamating them into fewer, fuller lever arch files?


Problem solved :-)
--
Jim K


----Android NewsGroup Reader----
http://usenet.sinaapp.com/

On Sat, 7 Jan 2017 16:29:37 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

MM Wrote in message:
On Fri, 6 Jan 2017 20:34:34 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

Clive George Wrote in message:
On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

If you were to do that, it would also mean you could store the files
flat, and thus avoid the other problem of the paper sagging within the file.



We call them "box files" :-)

I also have proper box files, but I have circa 20 ordinary lever arch
files -- wide ones and narrow ones -- so to replace them all with
box files would cost, ooh, fifty quid? Nah! Little blocks is what I
need. For free with my trusty saw and some offcuts.

MM


If all these only contain "a few sheets" wouldn't you be better
off amalgamating them into fewer, fuller lever arch files?

Then I'd have to buy or make dividers to keep the categories separate.
I used to do that, but found it a hassle. Much easy to have a
dedicated file for "car insurance", another for "council tax", another
for "HMRC" and so on.

MM

"MM" wrote in message
...
On Sat, 7 Jan 2017 16:29:37 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

MM Wrote in message:
On Fri, 6 Jan 2017 20:34:34 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

Clive George Wrote in message:
On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would
be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether
anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the
wheel,
like.

If you were to do that, it would also mean you could store the files
flat, and thus avoid the other problem of the paper sagging within the
file.



We call them "box files" :-)

I also have proper box files, but I have circa 20 ordinary lever arch
files -- wide ones and narrow ones -- so to replace them all with
box files would cost, ooh, fifty quid? Nah! Little blocks is what I
need. For free with my trusty saw and some offcuts.

MM


If all these only contain "a few sheets" wouldn't you be better
off amalgamating them into fewer, fuller lever arch files?

Then I'd have to buy or make dividers to keep the categories separate.
I used to do that, but found it a hassle. Much easy to have a
dedicated file for "car insurance", another for "council tax", another
for "HMRC" and so on.

Corse anyone with even half a clue would scan them and bin the paperwork.

In message , Hankat
writes

Then I'd have to buy or make dividers to keep the categories separate.
I used to do that, but found it a hassle. Much easy to have a
dedicated file for "car insurance", another for "council tax", another
for "HMRC" and so on.

Corse anyone with even half a clue would scan them and bin the
paperwork.

Possibly anyone who does not need to keep original paperwork for a
minimum of six years, for production to HMRC.
--
Graeme

MM Wrote in message:
On Sat, 7 Jan 2017 16:29:37 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

MM Wrote in message:
On Fri, 6 Jan 2017 20:34:34 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

Clive George Wrote in message:
On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

If you were to do that, it would also mean you could store the files
flat, and thus avoid the other problem of the paper sagging within the file.



We call them "box files" :-)

I also have proper box files, but I have circa 20 ordinary lever arch
files -- wide ones and narrow ones -- so to replace them all with
box files would cost, ooh, fifty quid? Nah! Little blocks is what I
need. For free with my trusty saw and some offcuts.

MM


If all these only contain "a few sheets" wouldn't you be better
off amalgamating them into fewer, fuller lever arch files?

Then I'd have to buy or make dividers to keep the categories separate.
I used to do that, but found it a hassle. Much easy to have a
dedicated file for "car insurance", another for "council tax", another
for "HMRC" and so on.

MM


So 20 odd dedicated files that are so big & practically empty that
they won't sit straight as they fill up your shelves.... righto,
crack.on!
--
Jim K


----Android NewsGroup Reader----
http://usenet.sinaapp.com/

"MM" wrote in message
...
On Sat, 7 Jan 2017 10:36:54 +0000, Robin wrote:

On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

If it is not clear what I mean, I'll post a drawing tomorrow.

MM

JOOI, what spec are your files? With all the lever arch files I have
(admittedly mainly 70mm) such blocks would not leave enough room for A4
paper (with the paper punched conventionally).

That is actually a very good point, but I have checked a few files and
there is room enough for a small block in most of them. It depends
whether one files plain A4 sheets or A4 in plastic punched pockets. I
have a mix of both.

MM

Your files sound like they take up ten times the volume of the papers
within. How about getting a filing cabinet? I have a 2-drawer one in wood
effect in the bedroom. Papers drop into the labelled hangers which squeeze
or expand according to the contents.
--
Dave W

On 08/01/2017 09:12, Graeme wrote:
In message , Hankat
writes

Then I'd have to buy or make dividers to keep the categories separate.
I used to do that, but found it a hassle. Much easy to have a
dedicated file for "car insurance", another for "council tax", another
for "HMRC" and so on.

Corse anyone with even half a clue would scan them and bin the paperwork.

Possibly anyone who does not need to keep original paperwork for a
minimum of six years, for production to HMRC.

Many, many organisation scan their documents and archive them. In fact
when it comes to thermally printed receipts its a necessity unless you
think they will last 6 years or more. 10 years if VAT MOSS is involved.

On 08/01/2017 10:48, Dave W wrote:
"MM" wrote in message
...
On Sat, 7 Jan 2017 10:36:54 +0000, Robin wrote:

On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

If it is not clear what I mean, I'll post a drawing tomorrow.

MM

JOOI, what spec are your files? With all the lever arch files I have
(admittedly mainly 70mm) such blocks would not leave enough room for A4
paper (with the paper punched conventionally).

That is actually a very good point, but I have checked a few files and
there is room enough for a small block in most of them. It depends
whether one files plain A4 sheets or A4 in plastic punched pockets. I
have a mix of both.

MM

Your files sound like they take up ten times the volume of the papers
within. How about getting a filing cabinet? I have a 2-drawer one in wood
effect in the bedroom. Papers drop into the labelled hangers which squeeze
or expand according to the contents.

That is what I have. Plus a few box files which stand up by themselves.

On 08/01/2017 07:58, MM wrote:


Then I'd have to buy or make dividers to keep the categories separate.
I used to do that, but found it a hassle. Much easy to have a
dedicated file for "car insurance", another for "council tax", another
for "HMRC" and so on.

What difficult about making dividers from cereal boxes etc if you don't
want to buy them?

--
Robin
reply-to address is (intended to be) valid

Hankat wrote:


"MM" wrote in message
...
On Sat, 7 Jan 2017 16:29:37 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

MM Wrote in message:
On Fri, 6 Jan 2017 20:34:34 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

Clive George Wrote in message:
On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit
nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm,
would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether
anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the
wheel,
like.

If you were to do that, it would also mean you could store the files
flat, and thus avoid the other problem of the paper sagging within
the file.



We call them "box files" :-)

I also have proper box files, but I have circa 20 ordinary lever arch
files -- wide ones and narrow ones -- so to replace them all with
box files would cost, ooh, fifty quid? Nah! Little blocks is what I
need. For free with my trusty saw and some offcuts.

MM


If all these only contain "a few sheets" wouldn't you be better
off amalgamating them into fewer, fuller lever arch files?

Then I'd have to buy or make dividers to keep the categories separate.
I used to do that, but found it a hassle. Much easy to have a
dedicated file for "car insurance", another for "council tax", another
for "HMRC" and so on.

Corse anyone with even half a clue would scan them and bin the paperwork.

One of the best unexpected uses of smartphones with cameras, IMHO.

On Sun, 8 Jan 2017 11:57:02 +0000, Robin wrote:

On 08/01/2017 07:58, MM wrote:


Then I'd have to buy or make dividers to keep the categories separate.
I used to do that, but found it a hassle. Much easy to have a
dedicated file for "car insurance", another for "council tax", another
for "HMRC" and so on.

What difficult about making dividers from cereal boxes etc if you don't
want to buy them?

I don't like dividers. Hence individual files.

MM

On Sun, 8 Jan 2017 10:48:31 -0000, "Dave W"
wrote:


"MM" wrote in message
.. .
On Sat, 7 Jan 2017 10:36:54 +0000, Robin wrote:

On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

If it is not clear what I mean, I'll post a drawing tomorrow.

MM

JOOI, what spec are your files? With all the lever arch files I have
(admittedly mainly 70mm) such blocks would not leave enough room for A4
paper (with the paper punched conventionally).

That is actually a very good point, but I have checked a few files and
there is room enough for a small block in most of them. It depends
whether one files plain A4 sheets or A4 in plastic punched pockets. I
have a mix of both.

MM

Your files sound like they take up ten times the volume of the papers
within. How about getting a filing cabinet? I have a 2-drawer one in wood
effect in the bedroom. Papers drop into the labelled hangers which squeeze
or expand according to the contents.

I used to have such a filing cabinet, also wood effect. Four drawers.
Didn't like it. Pulling the drawers out was such a pain compared to
just reaching for a lever arch file. And you couldn't move the bloody
thing, it was so heavy. I gave it away eventually.

MM

On Sun, 8 Jan 2017 11:30:30 +0000, Fredxxx wrote:

On 08/01/2017 10:48, Dave W wrote:
"MM" wrote in message
...
On Sat, 7 Jan 2017 10:36:54 +0000, Robin wrote:

On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the wheel,
like.

If it is not clear what I mean, I'll post a drawing tomorrow.

MM

JOOI, what spec are your files? With all the lever arch files I have
(admittedly mainly 70mm) such blocks would not leave enough room for A4
paper (with the paper punched conventionally).

That is actually a very good point, but I have checked a few files and
there is room enough for a small block in most of them. It depends
whether one files plain A4 sheets or A4 in plastic punched pockets. I
have a mix of both.

MM

Your files sound like they take up ten times the volume of the papers
within. How about getting a filing cabinet? I have a 2-drawer one in wood
effect in the bedroom. Papers drop into the labelled hangers which squeeze
or expand according to the contents.

That is what I have. Plus a few box files which stand up by themselves.

Oh, I have box files as well! The loft is full of them. They are more
for *long-term* storage. My papers go back to 1970, including the
German stuff.

MM

On Sun, 8 Jan 2017 19:34:59 +1100, "Hankat"
wrote:



"MM" wrote in message
.. .
On Sat, 7 Jan 2017 16:29:37 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

MM Wrote in message:
On Fri, 6 Jan 2017 20:34:34 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

Clive George Wrote in message:
On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would
be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether
anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the
wheel,
like.

If you were to do that, it would also mean you could store the files
flat, and thus avoid the other problem of the paper sagging within the
file.



We call them "box files" :-)

I also have proper box files, but I have circa 20 ordinary lever arch
files -- wide ones and narrow ones -- so to replace them all with
box files would cost, ooh, fifty quid? Nah! Little blocks is what I
need. For free with my trusty saw and some offcuts.

MM


If all these only contain "a few sheets" wouldn't you be better
off amalgamating them into fewer, fuller lever arch files?

Then I'd have to buy or make dividers to keep the categories separate.
I used to do that, but found it a hassle. Much easy to have a
dedicated file for "car insurance", another for "council tax", another
for "HMRC" and so on.

Corse anyone with even half a clue would scan them and bin the paperwork.

That's the most daft idea I've ever heard! These files are often
multi-page documents or postcard size. It varies. It would take
*years* to scan them all.

And then what? You'd never find them again! Not without a database,
that is.

MM

On Sun, 8 Jan 2017 17:14:15 +0000, "Dan S. MacAbre"
wrote:

Hankat wrote:


"MM" wrote in message
...
On Sat, 7 Jan 2017 16:29:37 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

MM Wrote in message:
On Fri, 6 Jan 2017 20:34:34 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

Clive George Wrote in message:
On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit
nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm,
would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether
anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the
wheel,
like.

If you were to do that, it would also mean you could store the files
flat, and thus avoid the other problem of the paper sagging within
the file.



We call them "box files" :-)

I also have proper box files, but I have circa 20 ordinary lever arch
files -- wide ones and narrow ones -- so to replace them all with
box files would cost, ooh, fifty quid? Nah! Little blocks is what I
need. For free with my trusty saw and some offcuts.

MM


If all these only contain "a few sheets" wouldn't you be better
off amalgamating them into fewer, fuller lever arch files?

Then I'd have to buy or make dividers to keep the categories separate.
I used to do that, but found it a hassle. Much easy to have a
dedicated file for "car insurance", another for "council tax", another
for "HMRC" and so on.

Corse anyone with even half a clue would scan them and bin the paperwork.

One of the best unexpected uses of smartphones with cameras, IMHO.

And then you lose the phone...

Oops!

I'm the kind of person who still walks to the bank every month to pay
my credit card statement at the counter. I hate technology! Having
worked in the computer industry since 1978 I know just how crap it can
be. Now everyone is trying to persuade me to use my cards contactless,
and I just tell them politely to naff off. Never gonna happen! Cash is
king!

MM

MM wrote:
On Sun, 8 Jan 2017 17:14:15 +0000, "Dan S. MacAbre"
wrote:

Hankat wrote:


"MM" wrote in message
...
On Sat, 7 Jan 2017 16:29:37 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

MM Wrote in message:
On Fri, 6 Jan 2017 20:34:34 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

Clive George Wrote in message:
On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit
nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm,
would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether
anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the
wheel,
like.

If you were to do that, it would also mean you could store the files
flat, and thus avoid the other problem of the paper sagging within
the file.



We call them "box files" :-)

I also have proper box files, but I have circa 20 ordinary lever arch
files -- wide ones and narrow ones -- so to replace them all with
box files would cost, ooh, fifty quid? Nah! Little blocks is what I
need. For free with my trusty saw and some offcuts.

MM


If all these only contain "a few sheets" wouldn't you be better
off amalgamating them into fewer, fuller lever arch files?

Then I'd have to buy or make dividers to keep the categories separate.
I used to do that, but found it a hassle. Much easy to have a
dedicated file for "car insurance", another for "council tax", another
for "HMRC" and so on.

Corse anyone with even half a clue would scan them and bin the paperwork.

One of the best unexpected uses of smartphones with cameras, IMHO.

And then you lose the phone...

No, I mean you then transfer them to your computer, and put them 'in the
cloud' if necessary. I wouldn't leave photographs in a phone for a long
time.

Oops!

I'm the kind of person who still walks to the bank every month to pay
my credit card statement at the counter. I hate technology! Having
worked in the computer industry since 1978 I know just how crap it can
be. Now everyone is trying to persuade me to use my cards contactless,
and I just tell them politely to naff off. Never gonna happen! Cash is
king!

I like not having to work out how to spend a mountain of loose change
any more.

MM

MM wrote:
On Sun, 8 Jan 2017 19:34:59 +1100, "Hankat"
wrote:



"MM" wrote in message
...
On Sat, 7 Jan 2017 16:29:37 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

MM Wrote in message:
On Fri, 6 Jan 2017 20:34:34 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

Clive George Wrote in message:
On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm, would
be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether
anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the
wheel,
like.

If you were to do that, it would also mean you could store the files
flat, and thus avoid the other problem of the paper sagging within the
file.



We call them "box files" :-)

I also have proper box files, but I have circa 20 ordinary lever arch
files -- wide ones and narrow ones -- so to replace them all with
box files would cost, ooh, fifty quid? Nah! Little blocks is what I
need. For free with my trusty saw and some offcuts.

MM


If all these only contain "a few sheets" wouldn't you be better
off amalgamating them into fewer, fuller lever arch files?

Then I'd have to buy or make dividers to keep the categories separate.
I used to do that, but found it a hassle. Much easy to have a
dedicated file for "car insurance", another for "council tax", another
for "HMRC" and so on.

Corse anyone with even half a clue would scan them and bin the paperwork.

That's the most daft idea I've ever heard! These files are often
multi-page documents or postcard size. It varies. It would take
*years* to scan them all.

And then what? You'd never find them again! Not without a database,
that is.

MM


Your 'database' is sensibly-chosen directory names :-)

"MM" wrote in message
...
On Sun, 8 Jan 2017 10:48:31 -0000, "Dave W"
wrote:

Your files sound like they take up ten times the volume of the papers
within. How about getting a filing cabinet? I have a 2-drawer one in wood
effect in the bedroom. Papers drop into the labelled hangers which squeeze
or expand according to the contents.

I used to have such a filing cabinet, also wood effect. Four drawers.
Didn't like it. Pulling the drawers out was such a pain compared to
just reaching for a lever arch file. And you couldn't move the bloody
thing, it was so heavy. I gave it away eventually.

MM

So get a chipboard two drawer one and put castors on it like mine.
--
Dave W

"Dan S. MacAbre" wrote in message
news
Hankat wrote:


"MM" wrote in message
...
On Sat, 7 Jan 2017 16:29:37 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

MM Wrote in message:
On Fri, 6 Jan 2017 20:34:34 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

Clive George Wrote in message:
On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each contain
only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf because the
'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed together by adjacent
files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the
internal
width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the 'open' end
apart and the file would then be like a box and would thus sit
nicely
square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x 30mm x 30mm,
would be
fixed on one side only, either glued or screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether
anyone
has seen a commercial solution already? To save reinventing the
wheel,
like.

If you were to do that, it would also mean you could store the files
flat, and thus avoid the other problem of the paper sagging within
the file.



We call them "box files" :-)

I also have proper box files, but I have circa 20 ordinary lever arch
files -- wide ones and narrow ones -- so to replace them all with
box files would cost, ooh, fifty quid? Nah! Little blocks is what I
need. For free with my trusty saw and some offcuts.

MM


If all these only contain "a few sheets" wouldn't you be better
off amalgamating them into fewer, fuller lever arch files?

Then I'd have to buy or make dividers to keep the categories separate.
I used to do that, but found it a hassle. Much easy to have a
dedicated file for "car insurance", another for "council tax", another
for "HMRC" and so on.

Corse anyone with even half a clue would scan them and bin the paperwork.

One of the best unexpected uses of smartphones with cameras, IMHO.

Don't tell Simon, he'll burst something.

On Sun, 08 Jan 2017 18:38:05 +0000, MM wrote:

On Sun, 8 Jan 2017 19:34:59 +1100, "Hankat" wrote:



"MM" wrote in message
. ..
On Sat, 7 Jan 2017 16:29:37 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

MM Wrote in message:
On Fri, 6 Jan 2017 20:34:34 +0000 (GMT+00:00), jim k wrote:

Clive George Wrote in message:
On 06/01/2017 19:00, MM wrote:
When I place lever arch files on the shelves and they each
contain only a few sheets, they don't sit square on the shelf
because the 'open' end (facing towards the wall) is pushed
together by adjacent files.

If I had small wood blocks to insert which were exactly the
internal width of the file, e.g. 42mm, this block would keep the
'open' end apart and the file would then be like a box and would
thus sit nicely square on the shelf. The wood blocks, say 42mm x
30mm x 30mm, would be fixed on one side only, either glued or
screwed.

Now, before I start making such blocks I'd like to know whether
anyone has seen a commercial solution already? To save
reinventing the wheel,
like.

If you were to do that, it would also mean you could store the
files flat, and thus avoid the other problem of the paper sagging
within the file.



We call them "box files" :-)

I also have proper box files, but I have circa 20 ordinary lever
arch files -- wide ones and narrow ones -- so to replace them all
with box files would cost, ooh, fifty quid? Nah! Little blocks is
what I need. For free with my trusty saw and some offcuts.

MM


If all these only contain "a few sheets" wouldn't you be better
off amalgamating them into fewer, fuller lever arch files?

Then I'd have to buy or make dividers to keep the categories separate.
I used to do that, but found it a hassle. Much easy to have a
dedicated file for "car insurance", another for "council tax", another
for "HMRC" and so on.

Corse anyone with even half a clue would scan them and bin the
paperwork.

That's the most daft idea I've ever heard! These files are often
multi-page documents or postcard size. It varies. It would take *years*
to scan them all.

And then what? You'd never find them again! Not without a database,
that is.

When I retired, I decided to scan a load of stuff, having been bitten a
couple of times before when I discarded manual etc. that I subsequently
needed.

I have a sheet feed scanner (50 sheets at a time, duplex) that does 25
sheets/minute. Loose and hole punched papers were quick; manuals I sliced
the spine off (made a small jig) and then scanned.

I have a few oddments to do but have scanned over 60,000 pages without
expending vast amounts of time on it.



--
My posts are my copyright and if @diy_forums or Home Owners' Hub
wish to copy them they can pay me £1 a message.
Use the BIG mirror service in the UK: http://www.mirrorservice.org
*lightning surge protection* - a w_tom conductor