The Unassuming Exterior
I finally got off my backside this weekend and assembled a proper merchandise box in anticipation of the arrival of my records, and the gigs I’m trying to get for the springtime and beyond. I already had the CD suitcase, from back when I still thought those things would continue to sell at the same rate…
CD's Securely Packed on the Left, Records Inside Padded Envelopes and Under a Thick Foam Pad on the Right. The Bar Above the Foam Holds It Down TIGHT!
So first, I had to knock out one of the “bars” in the suitcase to make room for the records. I’d keep one “rack” for CD’s off to the side.
The Lights CAN Blink, But It's Pretty Obnoxious, So I Don't Let Them
Then, after figuring out the cheap foam-and-padded envelopes solution for carrying records around IN that section, I drove up to the amazing American Science and Surplus store — a sort of Army surplus store for geeks / science teachers.
(Old Records for Modeling Purposes Only)
They had a battery-operated string of super-tiny LED lights that I took home and stapled to the inside of the lid of the suitcase. They were PLENTY bright for inside a dark club, and they run on 3 triple-A’s…
Prices Subject to Change (But Probably Not)
I mounted the record and CD inserts with velcro (also available at American S&S). As a finishing touch, Amy gave me the idea to use these cool serrated scissors she has to make “price starbursts”, which I cut out from yellow crack ‘n’ peel sticker sheets (also picked up at — you guessed it — American S&S, for just 25 cents each).
I’ve wanted to check this off my Zapruder Point to-do list literally for years. I celebrated by sitting down and giving a serious listen to Kiss’ Music from “The Elder”. Which…man, what a weird, terrible record. Anyway: MERCHANDISE BOX GO!
