I see some posts on "where is a good place to buy this or that". I have known about a place for years that has a ton of materials. GO to http://www.McMaster.com. It is a supplier for various industries including the manufacturing industry. It's like the ultimate hardware store. They have just about everything. Sorry they don't carry silk

Just thought all would like to know. Anybody else have any sources to share?

Happy building, Ed

A similar company is Grainger's, reachable at http://www.grainger.com. It's like McMasters, and they have branch stores all over the country. Their current catalog is 3,782 pages, and that's not a typo.

Grainger is good. Mcmaster Carr has a lot of things that I have not been able find else where. For instance I just bought Polished Stainless Stell edging for a table I'm makeing. You can get 12" sticks of Titanium or aluminum rod, for a make shift wand( I don't recomend using titanium to tap those brass cups with). There are all sorts of hinges and gizmos for building your own stuff.

I'm not affiliated with them, I just rediscovered them after some time away from building props and thought others might find them of use.

If you need small parts for any projects try-

http://www.smallparts.com

The Source for Hardware, woodworking supplies, and even special classes(Drumroll Please)

http://www.tools-for-woodworking.com/

Highland Hardware, Inc.
1045 N. Highland Ave. NE
Atlanta, GA 30306
800.241.6748

A Humongous "Old Time" Hardware Store. It is a neat place, and they carry everything.

Steve

Another good place is http://www.outwater.com. They are a supplier of piece parts for the furniture, display, design, and architecture industries and have a huge catalog. You'll find moldings, specialty wallpaper, window film, sheet goods, tubing, and lots of other stuff. If you want to get their catalog, don't sign up on the Web site -- just give them a call and request one. For some reason, Web catalog requests either take forever or don't get processed.

Best all-round supply store in the midwest is Menard's (IMHO)

OK Mr Ed! Stop giving away my trade secrets
I have been using McMaster Carr for over 8 years and have been more than happy with the selection and incredible service not to mention their TOP QUALITY website.
They are pretty much are sole provider for nuts, bolts and doo dads.
Chance

McMaster Carr is nice for smaller runs as there prices are a little higher than direct from manufacturers. But with today's minimums, it does become a viable option. It is nice for R&D work where you need small quantities. Plus it is 20 minutes from my house so I can get stuff at will call almost anytime I need it.

Richard

I use McMaster Carr all of the time,there service is great. I am in Maryland and the location I order from is New Jersey, if I place my order before 5 p.m. I have always received my order the very next day.


Nick