#reusable Nail Less Boxes

[mayuri-manufacturer]

Foldy Packaging is a renowned manufacturer of durable corrugated shipping boxes and carton boxes in India. With a commitment to quality and excellence, we offer a wide range of cardboard boxes at wholesale prices. Our corrugated boxes are designed to provide maximum protection during shipping, ensuring the safe delivery of your valuable products. Choose Foldy Packaging for reliable and cost-effective packaging solutions. Visit our website to explore our extensive product catalog and place your order today!

[ficuspax]

NAILLESS BOXES: A SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING SOLUTION

Nail less Boxes: A Sustainable Packaging Solution

Are you in search of an innovative and eco-friendly packaging solution? Look no further than Ficus Pax, as we introduce our revolutionary nail-less E-1 grade plywood packaging boxes. These boxes are meticulously crafted from high-quality wood and reinforced with steel corners, offering a new level of convenience, reliability, and sustainability in packaging.

At Ficus Pax, we understand the importance of sustainable practices in today’s world. That’s why our nail-less boxes are designed to minimize environmental impact without compromising on durability. By eliminating the need for nails, we reduce waste and make recycling easier, contributing to a greener future.

Our boxes are not only environmentally friendly but also highly functional. The precision craftsmanship ensures that each box is sturdy and reliable, providing optimal protection for your valuable goods during shipping. The steel corners add an extra layer of reinforcement, ensuring that your items remain intact even in the most demanding transportation conditions.

Benefits & Uses of Nail less Boxes

Ficus Pax pioneers the innovation of nail-less packaging solutions, offering unparalleled benefits in safeguarding your valuable goods across diverse industries. Nail-less boxes redefine convenience and durability, ensuring optimal protection during storage and transit.

Key Advantages:

Collapsible & Customizable: Our E-1 grade plywood nail-less boxes boast collapsible features, simplifying storage and transportation. Tailored to your product’s size and weight specifications, these boxes can be assembled and dismantled effortlessly, eliminating the need for on-site carpenters or nails.

Enhanced Durability: Crafted with a fusion of wood and reinforced steel corners, these boxes ensure superior strength and resilience. Their ability to withstand challenging weather conditions and prolonged storage safeguards your goods effectively.

Eco-friendly & Reusable: Utilizing plywood, these boxes remain exempt from ISPM 15 certification. This eco-friendly approach aligns with sustainable practices, while their reusability for up to 5 years underscores their cost-efficiency.

Versatile Applications: From safeguarding sensitive electronics to transporting heavy machinery, nail-less plywood boxes offer a versatile packaging solution for various industries. Their adaptability to diverse product types underscores their universal utility.

FAQs

What sets nail-less plywood boxes apart from traditional packaging?

Nail-less boxes offer unparalleled convenience and sustainability, eliminating the need for nails and skilled labor during assembly, making them collapsible and reusable.

Can these boxes be customized for specific products?

Absolutely! Ficus Pax provides tailored solutions, ensuring these boxes match your product’s size, weight, and transportation needs.

Are these boxes compliant with international shipping standards?

Yes, our nail-less E-1 grade plywood boxes comply with export requirements and, being entirely plywood, are exempt from ISPM 15 certification.

[almanoelscraft]

Trash to Treasure: Fun & Easy Upcycled Crafts

Have you ever stared at an empty cereal box and thought, “You could be something… greater”? No? Just me? Well, after today, you’ll never look at “junk” the same way again.

Upcycling is the art of taking discarded items and giving them new life, function, or flair. Think of it as DIY with a heart of gold (and a dash of eco-hero energy). Not only does it save money and reduce waste, but it gives your crafts a cool backstory. Imagine saying, “Oh, this organizer? It used to be a spaghetti box.”

Mic drop.

Why Upcycling Rocks

Eco-friendly: Less trash, more style.

Budget-friendly: Your supplies are literally free.

Endlessly creative: Constraints breed innovation. (MacGyver would be proud.)

Conversation starters: “Oh this vase? It used to be a shampoo bottle.”

Materials to Start Collecting

Time to raid your recycling bin! Here’s your new favorite supply list:

Cardboard boxes (cereal, tissue, shipping)

Glass jars and tin cans

Old t-shirts or jeans

Toilet paper rolls

Plastic containers or bottles

Magazines, newspapers

Bottle caps, buttons, and random bits

Yarn, string, or ribbon scraps

Pair these with your basic tools (scissors, glue gun, tape, paint) and you’ve got a recipe for upcycling magic.

Project 1: Cereal Box Drawer Organizer

Because your junk drawer deserves better.

What You’ll Need:

Empty cereal boxes (at least 2–3)

Scissors or craft knife

Ruler and pencil

Decorative paper or fabric (optional)

Glue or tape

Instructions:

Cut boxes to size. Decide how tall your organizers should be and trim them accordingly.

Create compartments. Mix and match different heights and shapes to fit snugly in your drawer.

Decorate (optional but encouraged). Wrap them in pretty paper, fabric, or even comic strips.

Arrange in drawer. Place them inside and revel in your new, aesthetically-pleasing organization system.

Now your paper clips and rogue batteries have a fashionable new home.

Project 2: Tin Can Lanterns

Turn your old soup cans into glowing works of art. They’re perfect for patios, cozy corners, or even romantic evenings with your cat.

What You’ll Need:

Empty, cleaned tin cans

Hammer and nail or metal punch

Tea light candle (or LED for safety)

Paint (optional)

Steps:

Fill can with water and freeze. This keeps it from bending while you punch holes.

Mark a simple design. Hearts, stars, or polka dots are great starting points.

Punch holes along the design. Use a nail and hammer (carefully!) to create your pattern.

Let ice melt and dry can.

Paint or decorate. Give it your personal flair.

Place candle inside and enjoy the glow.

Warning: You may become irrationally proud of your glowing tin can. This is normal.

Project 3: T-Shirt Tote Bag (No Sew!)

Yep, you read that right—no sewing required. Just scissors, knots, and a rebellious attitude.

Materials:

Old t-shirt (preferably one you’ve emotionally outgrown)

Scissors

Instructions:

Cut off the sleeves and neckline. Boom—instant handles.

Turn inside out. Tie a row of small knots along the bottom hem to close it up.

Flip right-side out. Done!

Now you’ve got a reusable, washable tote for groceries, books, or more craft supplies (because the addiction is real).

Mindset Check: Channel Your Inner Trash Whisperer

Upcycling is about vision. It’s seeing what could be, not what is. That coffee can? It’s not just a can—it’s a planter. That milk jug? Bird feeder. That single sock without a partner? Hello, sock puppet stage debut.

And remember, there's no such thing as “too weird” in the upcycle world. The quirkier, the better.

Unique Fact of the Day:

The term “upcycling” was coined in 1994, by Reiner Pilz, a German engineer who was fed up with the waste of recycling. He said instead of “downcycling,” which degrades materials, we should be “upcycling”—adding value to used items.

So when someone says your tin can lantern is just “trash,” you can confidently say, “It’s engineered art, actually.”

https://letterhanna.com/trash-to-treasure-fun-easy-upcycled-crafts/

[advertisingoperationsmaster]

The New Trend in Nail Art: DIY Your Way to Fingertip Fashion

Tired of repetitive nail salon designs? Want to change your nail look anytime without frequent salon visits? Then DIY press-on nails are your stylish new choice! Creating your own press-on nails is becoming a favorite among nail enthusiasts due to its convenience, individuality, and cost-effectiveness. The answer is a definite yes—you can create stunning press-on nails all by yourself and craft your own unique nail art. 5 Basic Nail Art Designs – Charm Starts from Your Fingertips!

Why Is DIY Press-On Nail Art So Popular?

Quick and Convenient Say goodbye to long salon queues. You can easily do your nails at home—even during short breaks in your day.

Cost-Effective The materials cost far less than professional salon services, making it a more affordable long-term choice.

Customized Style You’re in full control of colors and styles. Create one-of-a-kind nail art that reflects your personality. Check Out the Latest Custom Press-On Nail Trends for 2025

Versatile Designs Whether you like minimalist, glamorous, or cute styles, you can easily match your nails to any outfit or mood.

Gentle on Nails Reduces the need for filing and exposure to harsh chemicals, protecting your natural nails.

Instant Style Change Want to switch up your nails? Just peel and stick—get a brand-new look in seconds.

Reusable Well-made press-on nails can be reused multiple times—great for both the environment and your wallet.

Must-Have Tools for DIY Press-On Nails

To create beautiful press-on nails, you’ll need:

Nail Tips: Available in various shapes and sizes. ABS plastic tips are beginner-friendly.

Filing Tools: Nail files and buffer blocks for shaping and smoothing edges.

Adhesives: Nail glue for long-lasting hold or double-sided tabs for easy removal—choose based on your needs.

Base Colors: Gel polish or regular polish—your color, your rules. Gel polish requires a UV/LED lamp.

Top Coat: Adds shine and protects your nail color.

Decorations (Optional): Glitter, rhinestones, stickers—add sparkle and flair to your design.

Nail Art Tools (Optional): Brushes and dotting pens for painting designs and applying embellishments.

UV/LED Lamp (for gel polish): Essential for curing gel polish layers.

Removal Supplies: Nail polish remover or soak-off wraps for safe removal.

Cleaning Supplies: Alcohol wipes or cleanser to prep the nail surface.

Step-by-Step DIY Guide

Select Nail Tips Choose tips that match the size of your natural nails. File them down if needed.

Clean the Surface Wipe natural nails and tips to remove oil and residue.

Shape & Buff (Optional) File edges and buff the surface to help polish adhere better.

Apply Base Coat (Optional) For gel polish, start with a base coat and cure it under a UV/LED lamp.

Apply Color Apply 2–3 thin coats of gel or regular polish. Cure each gel layer; let regular polish air dry.

Get Creative (Optional) Use brushes for patterns or dotting tools for gems and decorations. Express Yourself with Custom Press-On Nails

Top Coat Protection Apply a top coat—cure if using gel polish, air dry for regular polish.

Stick It On Apply glue or adhesive tabs to your natural nail, align the press-on tip, and press firmly.

Pro Tips for DIY Nail Success

Be Patient: DIY nails take care and attention. Don’t rush the process.

Use Quality Materials: High-quality tips and polish improve the final result and durability.

Keep It Clean: Clean hands and tools prevent infections and improve adhesion.

Thin Layers Work Best: Apply polish in thin coats and cure between layers for smooth, vibrant color.

Be Creative: Try new colors, patterns, and decorations—make your design truly yours.

Store Carefully: Keep unused press-on nails in a storage box to avoid damage and dust.

Remove Gently: Be gentle when removing nails to avoid damaging your natural nails. Use proper adhesive remover if you used glue.

In Conclusion

DIY press-on nails not only let you change your look anytime but also offer a fun, creative way to express yourself. They’re convenient, cost-effective, and let your imagination shine. Start your DIY nail journey today and discover the fun and satisfaction of creating your own fingertip fashion!

Thank you for watching. We hope this has helped solve the problem you encountered. Though small, nail art has the power to brighten your every day. Start with the basics and let your fingertips be the first step to charm and confidence!

For regular updates on nail trends, design inspiration, and professional nail care tips, don’t forget to follow Nailelf!

[svsmpackaging]

Top 5 Benefits of Using a Nailless Wooden Box for Industrial Shipping

In industrial logistics, safety, efficiency, and sustainability are top priorities. As companies seek more innovative packaging solutions, the nail-less wooden box is rapidly gaining popularity — and for good reason. Unlike traditional wooden crates that use nails or screws, nail-less boxes are engineered for ease of use and superior performance. SVSM Packaging, a trusted name in durable, eco-friendly packaging solutions, is leading the charge in this innovation.

Here are the top five benefits of using a nail-less wooden box for industrial shipping:

 

1. Faster Assembly and Disassembly

Nail-less wooden boxes are designed for quick assembly without tools or nails. This saves time during packaging and simplifies unpacking at the destination—a significant benefit for busy warehouses and production lines.

 

2. Reusable and Cost-Efficient

One of the biggest advantages of nail-less boxes is their reusability. They can be easily folded and reassembled multiple times without damage, making them a cost-effective and sustainable choice for industries that require regular shipments.

 

3. Enhanced Safety

Without sharp nails or screws, there's a significantly lower risk of injury to workers during handling. This contributes to a safer work environment and reduces the chance of damaging the goods inside.

 

4. Environmentally Friendly

Nail-less boxes are made from high-quality, recyclable wood and designed for long-term use. Companies like SVSM Packaging prioritise eco-conscious manufacturing processes, supporting your company's sustainability goals while reducing packaging waste.

 

5. Customizable and Strong

Despite their tool-free design, nail-less boxes offer excellent structural strength and can be customised to suit various sizes and load capacities. SVSM Packaging ensures that every box meets industry standards for secure transport, even for heavy or sensitive equipment.

Conclusion

Choosing a nail-less wooden box is more than just a packaging decision — it's a strategic move toward efficiency, safety, and sustainability. With SVSM Packaging, you get expertly crafted, durable solutions tailored to your industrial shipping needs. Whether you're shipping locally or globally, these innovative boxes are a wise investment for any business.

[naturallybroken]

"Be prepared" shouldn't just be a catchy saying—it should be a way of life. For those in severe weather zones (think tornadoes, snowstorms, hurricanes), prepping becomes an annual routine. But with shifting weather patterns, that's no longer enough. Weather is breaking old patterns, just look at North Carolina. And natural disasters aren't the only disruptions we might face. Infrastructure failures, like the Francis Scott Key Bridge incident, tech issues (think CloudStrike), animals on power lines, fallen trees, pandemics, strikes, civil unrest, and government shutdowns can all throw off our lives with little to no warning.

This isn't meant to scare you, it's about being ready. Here’s a list (not complete) of essentials to keep on hand, along with a few tips.

Important Documents Keep important paperwork like birth certificates, marriage licenses, etc. handy. It’s also smart to keep a list of account numbers in case you need access them away from your home computer. Have photocopies of any identification you carry daily, and consider storing a second set somewhere else. Like my partner says, “belt and suspenders!”

Cash Have both bills and coins, primarily $20 bills or lower. You don’t want to be flashing $100s in a crisis.

Dry Goods & Can Opener When you have extra funds, invest in non-perishables. My mom would buy meat for the freezer, but after a couple of power outages, I switched to dry goods; grains, pasta, legumes, veggie protein mixes, granola bars. Avoid pricey “prepper" and camping meals; you can cover your nutritional needs for much less.

Water Get bottled water, any brand. When you’re thirsty, you won’t care what the label says.

Candles and Matches Candles aren't just for light, they can provide heat and even a cooking flame. And while lighters are convenient, they run out at the worst times, so keep wooden matches in a waterproof container.

Batteries and Power Banks Beyond AAs and AAAs, stock extra batteries for medical devices, and have power banks for electronics. You’ve seen people crowd around the sparse outlet available to charge their phones, don’t be that person. Affordable power banks are everywhere, and don’t forget spare cables.

Medications Prescription and OTC. Try to get 90-day refills and renew as soon as you’re able. Don’t wait until you’re down to your last dose.

First Aid Kit You should already have one, ideally a few. You can buy pre-made kits, but they often lack essentials. Tailor your kit to meet any specific allergies or medical needs in your household.

Ice Packs Get a few reusable ice packs. Keep them in the freezer so they're ready when needed. I’d suggest a minimum of ten if you have the space.

Backup Glasses If you've seen that Twilight Zone episode, you know how disastrous broken glasses can be. If you wear contacts, still keep backup glasses in case you lose access to solution. When you get new glasses, save the old pair as a backup. Store-bought readers might even work in a pinch, so pick up a pair if they’re affordable.

Basic Tool Kit & Car Kit In a crisis, things break, and there may be no one to help but yourself. A basic toolkit should include a hammer, screwdrivers (flat and Phillips), box cutter or knife, small saw, good shears, and a box of general-size nails and screws. For your car, have jumper cables, a funnel, bungee cords, a window breaker, an ice scraper, gloves, an emergency blanket, and one of those first aid kits from earlier.

Helpful Tips Check Supplies Regularly: Every 3-6 months, rotate and replace anything close to expiration. Mark Expiration Dates: Use a permanent marker to write expiration dates clearly. Those tiny printed dates are hard to read at a glance. Pool/Share Resources: If you can afford it, pick up extra supplies for friends or family. Consider pooling funds to buy in bulk and split the savings. Crisis brings out the best in togetherness; "every person for themselves" rarely ends well. Helping each other with preparedness, lifting heavy items, making copies, or teaching someone how to use tools can make all the difference

Quote for Today “Shared pain is lessened; shared joy is increased—thus do we refute entropy” -- Spider Robinson

Music for Today People Like Us (Doom Patrol version) https://youtu.be/xJ5XK4k5vtA?si=boJb9NQPZpzD74xv

[logipack]

Ply Wood Nail Less Box Manufacturer in Pune

Logipack is a leading manufacturer of premium plywood nail-less boxes based in Pune. Our innovative packaging solutions are designed to provide superior strength and durability, ensuring the safe transit of your valuable goods. At Logipack, we prioritize quality and customer satisfaction, utilizing advanced technology to produce eco-friendly, reusable, and easy-to-assemble nail-less boxes. Our expert team is committed to delivering custom packaging solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of various industries. Choose Logipack for reliable and sustainable packaging that protects your products and supports your business’s logistical needs.

Visit this website for complete details...

Ply Wood Nail Less Box Manufacturer in Pune

[rajeshiv]

Foldy Packaging Making Most Durable Corrugated Shipping Box & Corrugated Carton Box Manufacturer providing Cardboard Boxes Wholesale India. We Making Most Durable Corrugated Shipping Box & Also Making Corrugated Carton Box Manufacturer and providing Cardboard Boxes Wholesale India.

[neonphoenix]

When Dick Grayson originally bought his apartment in Bludhaven, he had exactly two pieces of furniture: a couch and a coffee table. He owned one bowl, a coffee mug, a disposable fork, spoon, and knife that he made reusable, and a pan. He also owned a coffee maker and all of his vigilante gear, but those were in the “Super-secret hidden room in the back that No One will ever find.” Eventually he caved and bought a larger spatula/wooden stir spoon so that he could cook things without melting his only utensils. 

He led a remarkably minimalist life. Until Jason, that is.

Jason showed up out of the blue on his doorstep one day and forced himself in, all sharp elbows and opinionated observations about the sparseness of the interior. Once he started spending more time there, Dick invested in a second set of dishware and cutlery. The mug and bowl were ones he specifically picked out for Jason at a yard sale, both the same garish red as his hoodie.

When Dick complained about Jason’s habit of abandoning his shoes and hoodies in the middle of the living room, he cited the lack of place to put them. So Dick bought a hallway tree for the entryway. Also because of Jason, who kept abandoning books at Dick’s apartment, presumably in an effort to make him read more, “Sensible literature,” Dick acquired a small, two shelf bookcase. When Jason died, Dick put his mug and bowl and various photographs into the bookcase, before moving it to a storage unit with some of his parents’ old things.

When Tim popped into existence in his life, Dick found him a mug and bowl of his own, just like with Jason. These were a less garish red on the inside, and black on the bottom. More tasteful pottery seemed to fit Tim better, so Dick put a bit more time into finding it. With Tim came a game console and monitor, with the coffee table being repurposed as a tv stand.

Tim made him get a proper dining table with, “At least two chairs because you should be able to have guests over in a proper manner.” Alfred said something similar, and pointedly gifted him a tea seat to go along with it. Neither of the chairs matched the table or each other, but Dick liked it better that way.

When he heard about Spoiler from Tim, he made a prediction and bought a mug and bowl, specifically glazed in her trademarked eggplant.

Cass showed up, and at first she was strange, but Dick was used to strange. She left brightly colored post-its with doodles all over the place when she visited, but he rarely saw her, at least for a while.

And then Jason was back, and Dick thought about the storage locker, but never got around to collecting his things. Then Tim wasn’t Robin anymore, and his apartment got blown up, and Blockbuster, and the rooftop... And then Stephanie was dead and he hadn’t even known her.

It was strange, to mourn someone he’d never known.

He got a new apartment, and replaced everything that had been in his old one. He bought a proper bed this time. His back was only so forgiving, after all. And then he tracked down another eggplant plate and bowl, and put them in the storage locker.

Barbara sent him a plushie of herself in a wheelchair, and he laughed and set it on his microwave. He reminded himself to find some green dishware for her.

A month or so after one of Clark’s visits, he received a black and blue quilt from Ma Kent, and a reminder that he was always welcome at her farm. He pinned the reminder to the fridge, next to the post-its from Cass. He wasn’t sure what their relationship was, she still didn’t stop by for long periods of time. Then one day, he was at an art fair, and he found a black kintsugi mug and bowl that reminded him of her costume.

After they appeared in his cupboards, she began staying longer. He took her to the Nutcracker, and taught her how to fly, the same way his parents taught him. In turn, she left him more post-its. There was an entire wall in his living room covered by them.

Damian arrived and Bruce died, and everything fell apart. Stephanie came back, and Dick got to meet her this time. But Cass was in Hong Kong, and Tim was who knows where, and Dick didn’t know how to fix it, and he was worried that he had lost any hope of rebuilding things with Jason, and Damian was just so young. Too young. 

Dick tried his best.

He got Damian a mug that bore a hand painted robin. When Dick first offered it to him, he turned his nose up and huffed about it. Dick shrugged and put it in the cupboard. He wasn’t living in his apartment anymore, and he had moved most of his things to the locker. It seemed strange to buy Damian a bowl when Alfred served them their meals on matched sets daily.

But eventually Bruce came back, and Dick moved back into his apartment. He got his stuff out of storage, and this time, Jason’s bookshelf came with him.

The second time Duke came to his apartment, it was with a box of silverware from goodwill. Dick snorted and put it in his drawer. The Titans, Donna being the driving force, had gifted him a box of photos and picture frames. He put his favorite ones on the wall next to one of Damian’s paintings.

Harper showed up one day asking if she could use his apartment, “For science.” Dick figured, why not, and came back to one of the most intricately rigged lighting systems he had ever seen.

Cullen built a shoe rack in his woodworking class, and it took up residency by the fire escape window, along with a mat because people Would Not stop Dripping.

Stephanie’s lip gloss and nail polish began to take residence under his bathroom sink, and she donated her old waffle maker to his kitchen after Barbara got her an upgraded one.

Eventually he got used to new things appearing whenever his siblings decided his living space had a deficit. They treated it like a safe haven of sorts, somewhere they could go to get away from Gotham without leaving familiar territory.

He did have to put his foot down about the industrial soft serve machine. That was a batcave-only type of utility.

It started with Jason showing up on his doorstep, barely five foot and 100 pounds soaking wet. Now, he climbed in through the window, a mountain of a man, and sat down at the table across from Dick, holding his red mug.

Dick’s apartment had once been the sparsest thing known to man, but now each member of his family had a mug and a bowl in his cabinet. He even had a spare set for guests. 

He never did get more than two dining chairs.

And Jason still couldn’t put his shoes in the cabinet, because he was a massive Jerk that liked to make his brother’s life harder.

Author Notes:

My personal headcanon is that Dick doesn’t buy things unless he needs them or they have sentimental value. So he’s not against having stuff per say, he just doesn’t feel a need to get it. 

I feel like this could be interpreted as glorifying materialism and maybe I’ve just been on Tumblr to long, but that’s not what I’m going for. 

Also I thought about including all of the Titans but that was a lot and I didn’t have time for it

Please feel free to add more to this? I love seeing other people’s thoughts. 

But don’t feel pressured.

[blitzturtles]

Title: Tre

Rating: Mature, for implied adult activity (though it isn't detailed.)

Fandom: JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Golden Wind

Pairing(s): BruAbba

Summary: “Is… Bucciarati avoiding anyone else?” Giorno asks, quiet. Unsure. By the look on his face, it’s something that’s been bothering him for a few days.

Abbacchio looks up with raised brows, “Don’t think so, why?”

Notes: Please note that Bruno experiences quite a bit of gender dysphoria here. It's reflected in his internal dialogue and could be triggering.

Also, missing doses of T doesn't necessarily guarantee the return of someone's period, but Bruno has a whole lotta bad luck, too much stress, and not enough time.

-

“Is… Bucciarati avoiding anyone else?” Giorno asks, quiet. Unsure. By the look on his face, it’s something that’s been bothering him for a few days.

Abbacchio looks up with raised brows, “Don’t think so, why?”

Giorno frowns. How does he explain that he feels like he’s seeing more glimpses of zippers and Sticky Fingers than the man they belong to? That he feels like every time he turns a corner, Bruno is already leaving? Maybe even fleeing?

“No, no, I think Giogio’s onto something,” Mista cuts in before Giorno can answer.

Abbacchio’s neutral expression shifts to something less sure. His frown reflects Giorno’s, and he seems to lose himself in his thoughts for a moment. He recalls the last several days and tries to replay the interactions in his head.

“I’ll check it out,” he decides, finally. He pushes himself up to his feet and heads out the door before the other two can think up an argument.

“Uh?” Mista looks to Giorno, then the door, and back again.

“I don’t know,” Giorno admits. Something in Abbacchio’s features had only validated his worries.

______ ______

“Bruno,” Abbacchio calls, rapping the back of one hand against their shared bedroom door. He hates to admit it, but the kid is right. Bruno’s been quieter. A bit more aloof, but he isn’t fully avoiding Abbacchio. He knows better than that, which is exactly the problem. The bastard knows just the way to adjust his behavior to avoid suspicion.

The room remains quiet on the other side. No one moves, and the door stays shut. Abbacchio isn’t buying it for a minute.

“Bruno, I’m coming in if you don’t let me in.”

He waits approximately ten more seconds-- no one has ever accused him of being a patient man-- before he digs out his key. The only reason he has it on him at all is because of Bruno’s borderline refusal to use doors. There’s been a time or two where Abbacchio has been locked out because Bruno used his zippers and forgot to flip the lock. It’s not a frequent occurrence, but it’s happened enough to make Abbacchio more diligent about having his copy on his person.

His chest aches with the burning need of oxygen, reminding him to take a breath. He has a vague idea of what might be happening, but he can’t be sure. Can’t know that Bruno isn’t half-dead somewhere beyond the threshold.

One blue eye pops out of a pile of blankets and disappears just as quickly. There’s a quiet groan and possibly a few words, but none of it is audible to Abbacchio.

“Cramps?”

The blankets shift like someone might have whacked them.

“You can’t get rid of me that easily,” Abbacchio says with an undeniably fond tone. He doesn’t take offense to the attempt to shoo him off, but he does feel guilt for not recognizing the signs earlier. To his own credit, it’s been many months, possibly more than a year since last this happened. He’s gotten out of the habit of identifying the warnings. Bruno is a lot like a wounded animal. Unless it’s killing him, he won’t make his pain known (and even that’s up in the air, sometimes. It’s the blood trail that gives him away more often in those cases.)

He bypasses the mass on the bed to slide into the bathroom. He notes the painkillers on the counter and finds some relief in the fact that Bruno at least has those on board. Absently, he brushes his thumb against Bruno’s toothbrush and winces at the dampness of it. That’s one of those things he’s learned from being with Bruno for so long: when his cramps are particularly awful, his stomach crawls its way up his throat. Sometimes more than once, but Bruno being in bed is hopefully a sign that he’s finished with that for now.

With the painkillers taken and his stomach emptied, there’s only one thing that Abbacchio can offer. He crouches down in front of the sink and starts digging through their unholy collection of toiletries and makeup. A not insignificant amount of it is Abbacchio’s, but he finds a crushed box in the back after several frustrating minutes of digging and rearranging.

There’s one left, but it will do. He can bribe the kids to go get him more. Something tells him the reusable is missing in action. Probably tossed after one too many times of someone bleeding on it.

Bruno hasn’t moved since Abbacchio’s break in, and he doesn’t look like he intends to move when Abbacchio makes his way to the bed.

“C’mon. Stretch out for a second,” he holds up the packaging for Bruno to see and gives one of his rare, soft smiles when Bruno unhooks his arms from around himself and uncurls his body.

Abbacchio carefully peels the blankets away to find that Bruno has stolen one of his night shirts and a pair of his shorts.

“Sorry,” Bruno breathes.

The pain in his voice is heartbreaking, and the fact that Bruno thinks Abbacchio gives two shits about a pair of lost shorts (to blood of all things, as if they haven’t both bled on every other thing they’ve ever owned) only makes the ache worse.

“I really can’t emphasize enough how much I don’t care,” Abbacchio says and immediately wishes he had thought his words out, “About the shorts.” He sees the way Bruno tenses for a moment before he relaxes again. He’s on edge. Less sure of himself than he usually is, which means he’s second guessing everything. Even definite truths. And one of those is that Abbacchio would give him anything he asked for without question. A singular set of clothes-- that he knows Bruno will probably replace without his noticing-- mean nothing to him.

“I know,” Bruno admits. His fingers dance at the hem of the shirt. He’s buying time.

Abbacchio doesn’t push him. He waits patiently until Bruno slides the shirt up his belly enough for Abbacchio to place the heating pad. He’s mindful of the dark patch of hair that peeks out from above the shorts. Bruno usually prefers them to be placed higher up anyway, and his belly is relatively hairless.

“There. That’s the last of the peel and sticks, but we can get more,” he reaches to tug the shirt back down but hesitates a moment to press a kiss to Bruno’s hip. He knows that Bruno feels the most dysphoric when he’s bleeding. Sees himself in a way that Abbacchio doesn’t. Being in agony doesn’t exactly help his mental state any.

“I don’t want to be trouble.”

Abbacchio snorts-- if only because the idea of that is so preposterous. “If they knew it was for you, they’d kill each other to get to the store first,” they won’t know. He won’t tell them. They might guess that it’s Bruno that’s out of commission, given his absence, but Bruno isn’t full-time anymore. It’s easy to dismiss his lack of presence as his attention being elsewhere, but Giorno’s made it apparent that he’s noticed. Mista, too.

Bruno might have gotten away with it if he weren’t feeling so poorly. The pain clouds his mind and disrupts the smooth way that he and Sticky Fingers work together. It’s probably why Giorno kept catching glimpses. It’s all Bruno can do to stay upright when the cramps kick in at full swing.

Speaking of, Abbacchio reaches up to gently wipe the tears away from Bruno’s cheeks.

“You can roll back. I’m going to change, but I’m not going anywhere.”

Truthfully, he isn’t changing for his own comfort. Abbacchio has fallen asleep fully dressed more times than he can count, buckle included. He could care less about what he’s wearing, but he knows that Bruno’s nerves are already frayed.

In the time it takes him to switch to his softest night clothes, Bruno has curled back up, facing away from him. Abbacchio takes a moment to shoot off a text before he climbs in behind him. He carefully scoots his body as close to Bruno’s as he can without putting any pressure against him. Bruno uncurls enough to lean a fraction of his weight back into him, and Abbacchio counts that as a win.

Abbacchio reaches up to undo the clips in Bruno’s hair. The braid needs to come out, too, but he doesn’t have the angle he needs to work on it. He settles for petting along Bruno’s arm, a slow drag of his calloused fingers from wrist to shoulder. His nails drag lightly against tanned skin. It’s all about distracting without being overwhelming.

“I missed three,” Bruno says eventually.

“Three? Oh,” well, that explains it. Bruno’s had problems with his cycle coming through in the past. It’s the reason he switched to shots in the first place, and he’s suspected his dose has been too low for a while. The problem is that his own health and wellbeing always comes last. He doesn’t pursue the doctors the way he could; he’s always too busy taking care of everyone else at his own detriment. Sometimes Abbacchio thinks Bruno does it as self-flagellation, but he feels like a hypocrite if he points it out.

The dysphoria creates something of a feedback loop. It’s the one aspect of himself that Bruno struggles with the most. He can typically climb his way out of his cycles of grief. The flashbacks are generally ignored. It’s amazing, Abbacchio thinks, that he ever sleeps at all. There’s enough trauma and stress there to last several people their entire lives. Bruno ignores it all, but he can’t ignore this.

Abbacchio carefully drapes his arm around Bruno and presses his face against the back of his neck. “I love you,” he says, the words pressed against Bruno’s nape.

There’s a wounded sound from Bruno, and he curls up tighter.

Abbacchio moves with him. Careful, but without hesitation. “I love you no matter what, in any way that you’ll have me. I will follow you to the end, and I will give you all that I have.” He can’t refute the words playing in Bruno’s head, but he can make sure he knows that he’s loved. “None of us would have made it without you.”

“That’s not-”

“Shut up,” Abbacchio’s tone is far from harsh, but Bruno does as he’s told, “Fugo might have stayed out of legal trouble, but that doesn’t mean he wouldn’t be dead from pissing off the wrong person. Narancia would have died of an infection. You said it yourself, Narancia was on death’s door when Fugo brought him to you. Mista wouldn’t have survived jail,” another one of Bruno’s assessments that was exactly on point, “Giorno would have probably gotten himself killed trying to take out the boss by himself, and Trish would be dead if you hadn’t killed yourself to save her.” Being revived after doesn’t change the fact that Bruno had died in the first place, “And I would be passed out drunk. Maybe dead.”

Silence settles over them for a long few minutes. Bruno only occasionally tensing and squirming from pain. The over-the-counter stuff barely touches the cramps, but he won’t take anything else. At least the heating pads seem to help some.

“Thank you,” Bruno says eventually.

“Sure,” Abbacchio presses a kiss to soft skin, “I’m always available to grind the truth into that thick skull of your’s.”

Bruno huffs in response, but his hands find Abbacchio’s arm. He curls his fingers around pale skin and finds himself admiring the muscle underneath. Neither of them are particularly built, but Abbacchio has the thicker, wider frame that Bruno had longed for for so many years. It’s odd to remember when they first met, when Abbacchio had a bit more muscle. Bruno’s own body had been a hated thing. Something he used to wish he could shed with curves he could see if he looked for them.

Sometimes he wonders which of their memories are distorted. Abbacchio’s, from the alcohol and the depression and not actually knowing better. Or Bruno’s, from the self-hatred and the dysphoria and the abuse inflicted on him.

He can still remember the first time they managed to lock themselves in the bathroom, all hands and teeth, and Leone-- god help him-- had been surprised.

It had been the first time they made it past making out like teenagers, and Leone had stared up at him from his spot on his knees with big, gold-violet eyes. Confused and at an obvious loss. Bruno can still remember the way his stomach turned as reality kicked in, and he had realized the significant misstep on his part. He had thought, with his waist and the scars on his chest and the width of his shoulders, that it had been obvious. Had thought himself lucky that Leone still wanted him.

”Tell me what to do,” Leone had demanded, all determination and enthusiasm.

Bruno almost laughs at the memory. It’s not funny, really, but he can remember the overwhelming endearment he had felt. Still feels. That’s the thing that Leone can’t accept. Can’t understand about himself: all that he does for Bruno. All the ways he makes Bruno a better man. He can’t imagine doing this on his own. He’ll have to find a way to better show his appreciation when his insides aren’t threatening to tear him apart.

“I love you,” he says, squeezing Leone’s arm.

“I love you, too.”

[twofordinnergame]

Dec 24 2021 - Engine Complete

I finally did it.  I completed the rewrite from version 3 to version 4 of my game engine.  It took me a couple of years.  Yikes.  But, it's done.

I can start sharing more about my progress.  Here's a proof of life video that shows placeholder art, some lighting, room, and collision system working.  Later in the video I turn on some of the debug shapes.  There's not much in the way of gameplay here.  At this stage, other than the world and room system, I have not worked on gameplay or player skills.  It's a blank canvas.

Was it worth it?  Not sure.  The entire process from zero skills to now took me almost 7 years on and off.  I wrote 4 game engines, a custom scripting language (unused) and a set of tools in 7 years...  I certainly am very competent now in all sorts of C++ programming styles and gamedev.  But it turned out to be a gigantic undertaking and burden for someone who's only slightly perfectionist such as myself.  Hard to say if I would have been able to make good games in the same time had I chosen an off the shelf engine but this engine quest has certainly prevented me from actually producing my clumsily announced demo 3 years ago...  Version 3 and its custom scripting language was a promising engine 2 years ago but there's no contest with version 4.  My future life as a programmer/designer is greatly enhanced by the sheer power and flexibility of version 4. So, from that perspective, I have no regrets.  I can tell there will not be a need for a version 5.  Let's look at it.

About the engine.  It follows the live-coding paradigm I described in previous posts.  The game and renderer are separate DLLs.  The game is launched by a platform specific executable.  All memory is managed from the platform launcher.  Reloading DLLs does not modify that memory unless I choose to and that allows me to near live code the game without shutting it down.  The C++ style I use is very bare bones, procedural, does not rely on compiler heavy C++ features.  All code is brought under single compilation units and the resulting compilation times are near 1s for each module.  This architecture makes programming systems or gameplay a breeze.  I would often be surprised how I could to write complete systems in a day instead of a few days as I used to.  The near instant compilation keeps me in the flow and productive.

About the tools.  I have two kinds, standalone and in-engine.   The standalone tools run inside their own process and monitor my creative apps.  When I edit registered files, the tools package them into an engine ready binaries.  The engine monitors those and live-reloads them as the game runs.  This allows me to draw art or modify levels from dedicated apps and see instant changes in game.  The in-engine tools range from C++ compiler replacement facilities such as meta programming, introspection, custom preprocessor based code generation to visual debug tools, input replay for QA, etc.  These turned out to be more interesting to me.  Due to the coding style and nature of version 4, I can very easily write stuff and see results live.  For instance, just yesterday I was reluctantly looking into fixing a bug in my static light system and I had been dragging my feet there because it looked like it would take a while to nail down.  Rather than starting up gdb and do some old school code investigation (very impractical there because that room had 100s of lights), I wrote an immediate mode style bounding box sprites selected by mouse hovering system to help me identify what light exactly was playing up.  Setting those up took me less than half hour.  I could retrieve several troublesome light ids very quickly just by exploring the world with the game camera and my mouse.  Those ids set me down the right track, and I nailed down the bug quickly.  I had more fun writing the quick tool than using the traditional debugger.  This system would be reusable for other game objects in the future for which I'll want quick introspection.

On performance.  This simpler style of C++ coding makes it easier to run -O3 type compiler based optimizations.  Just by switching that on I gain a 4x CPU speed advantage in most scenarios.  I have also pushed my renderer to do much more sampling and color work than version 3 used to.  I am knowingly using way too many FBOs, essentially having a mini-photoshop like layer system.  The idea being that as I design the game, the facilities will be there should I need them with the intention of bundling things tighter once I am set on the look I'll be going for.  This kind of unduly complicated pipeline made me aware of OpenGL driver overheads and I am now very curious about AZDO style interfaces such as Vulkan but that's a rabbit hole I am not prepared to go down for some time.

Where to go next.  I would contemplate splitting logic from rendering into separate threads to speed up the QA replay facility.  Also, there's more work needed on my audio system, as I would like to have more mixing facility and logic to accomplish some dynamic music effects.

That was a long, technical post.  I am about to open a new chapter on my gamedev journey.  One where I'll be mostly focused on art, design and storytelling, the stuff that brought me here in the first place.  I actually spent the last 2 weeks just doodling until I worked up enough motivation to fix those pesky static lights ;)  I am very happy to be largely done with the engine, even though those things have a life of their own and there'll be no doubt new systems or tools I'll just feel like writing down the track.  I am very excited to be finally turning to those design and art notebooks and try to make Two for Dinner come to light.

I really appreciate your support and interest.  Here, you can have a quick look at the tip of a 7 year iceberg with this placeholder art video.  Enjoy!

Merry Christmas everyone and all the best to you all!

Claude

[storage-box-singapore]

An Ultimate Guide About Storage Box Singapore Must Read It Before Buying

First Of All, We Have To Know That

What is Storage Box?

Storage Boxes are durable and reusable containers which residence items and additives. They're to be had in various sizes to maintain an assortment of gadgets, so they provide an excellent way to store space and hold regions tidy and organized.

They can be used to shop items in warehouses, workshops, or storages thoroughly or briefly ship things to and from locations and maintain them for a positive amount of time as interim garage solutions.

Many are stackable correctly so that they may be stored on a pinnacle of different bins to reserve even more room. This keeps work or domestic environments tidy and makes it less complicated to locate various gadgets or gear.

They're generally made from plastic because plastic garage bins are less challenging to keep easy – mainly if they're being utilized in environments where there can be plenty of dirt or dirt.

Types Of Storage Box Singapore

There's a diffusion of kinds available, which are designed for exclusive functions. Some have open tops for easy access and visibility, whilst some function lids to keep gadgets contained and provide more excellent protection. They also are available in a variety of various sizes.

What are garage packing containers used for?

There are plenty of various uses for storage boxes, and that they're utilized in massive sorts of industries and programs. Here are some of the most, not exceptional services:

Food Processing

They're often used within the food and beverage enterprise. That's because of the requirement for meals to be saved fresh and in top condition whilst it reaches the grocery store. As soon as inside the supermarkets, Storage Box Singapore minimize harm and enable products to be protected and moved around effortlessly.

Constructions

An average production site will require storage for hundreds of fasteners, nails, rivets, screws, nuts or bolts so that a garage box can house and organize these gadgets in large quantities.

Tools

Storage Box Singapore is one of the most sensible approaches to maintaining saws, drills, wrenches, and hammers. Plus, they get too damaged through those heavy objects when in transit. It is a plastic box.

What material was used for making the Storage Box in Singapore?

They're available in expanding various substances, including cardboard, wooden, steel or even wicker baskets, but plastic is the most popular preference for workplace storage. That's because they're water-resistant and plenty stronger than alternative substances. This makes plastic garage bins specifically useful for business environments, where they can uncover boxes to harsher atmospheres.

This additionally means they're to be had in an expansion of colors. Black, grey and white are common coloration choices for the place of a business garage. At the same time, as evident, storage containers are also available and make it less difficult to view the field's contents.

[shoebox-living]

Six Month Goal Update

My goal that I set back in February for myself was to eliminate the need for my bathroom trash can, by finding reusable/recyclable alternatives for the things I find myself throwing away regularly (period products, disposable razors, q-tips, cotton rounds for makeup remover).

Period products: I bought a DivaCup and I LOVE it. The sizing quiz on their website is super helpful, it’s convenient to use, and the process for cleaning/maintenance is simple. Now to work through and use up the rest of my disposable products...normally I would’ve waited to buy the alternative until after I used up the disposables but I wasn’t sure I would like the DivaCup.

Makeup Remover/Cotton Rounds: I’ve been trying Pond’s Cold Cream and different cleansing balms for days when I wear less makeup, and they have worked relatively well. For heavier makeup days, though, I really do need to stick with a dedicated liquid eye makeup remover. I’ve learned that cotton rounds are compostable (so not the worst, although I don’t have a good way to compost atm) but I am finishing some DIY reusable cotton rounds to try in the next few days. More to come!

Disposable razors: Primary focus here has been working through my seemingly-infinite stash of disposable razors, which I’m almost done with. I know I want to switch to a safety razor, but would love brand recommendations if you have any.

Q-tips: Now that I’ve been really paying attention, I’ve found I use these for a lot more than just my ears (ie, nail polish, cleaning small spaces). I don’t know if now is the best time to swap them out for something that might not work for my other uses for Q-tips. I need to think more about these as I continue to work through my big box of them.

[thesustainableswap]

My Top 5 Less Waste / Zero Waste Essentials.

Today I’m here with a list of some of my favourite less waste and zero waste swaps but before we begin with the countdown I have something important to mention. While we’re all raring to make the swap over to more sustainable items, it’s important to note that if you already own something that does the job, i.e a plastic toothbrush, don’t meaninglessly get rid of it without using it! Then, see if you can find a second life for it after it has fulfilled its purpose. Toothbrushes are great for cleaning small, fiddly objects. Now, let’s jump in!

1. Plastic Bottles / Glass Jars / Containers

We all already have these lying around, especially if you’re new to the zero waste lifestyle. I would encourage you to, instead of throwing away items and swapping over to something more ‘sustainable,’ keep everything! Without trying to sound like too much of a hoarder, I keep all my containers. Plastic bottles from used shampoos come in handy as I can take them to naked shops and refilling stations to buy soaps or other liquid items without having to buy another bottle. Glass jars are great too. I have so many that were food jars or candles, and now I use them to store oats, dried beans, nuts, cereals, cookies... the list goes on! Because of this, I can give items that would have gone to landfill a new life and purpose. Also, I very rarely run out of things because of how many 1L bottles I have filled to the brim. A zero waste option can usually begin as something you already have, that you can re-use instead of throwing away.

2. Deodorant

This was a really tricky swap to find, because my first foray into natural and zero waste deodorant’s left me stinky. I’m not sure why it was so difficult for me to find a product that worked for me, but I think different pits need different things. For a long time me and my partner were trying a lot of different, all natural, deodorants that came in various packaging until we finally found three we loved. Not all three of them work for both of us, so a bit of trial and error is expected in this search, but I’m going to share our top three in the hopes that one will be a winner for you. First up is the Lamazuma solid deodorant, which has a subtle citrus smell and comes in a small cardboard box. Second is the No Bo Smoo Bar by Primal Suds, which is similar in smell to the Lamazuma but times 10. This one has an amazing (but very strong) lemon smell. I thought this one smelt incredible, but I really like strong fragrant scents. Last but not least is the one I’m using, which is Earth Conscious’ Natural Deodorant. My current one is ‘pure unscented’ and came in a metal tin (which I will keep and try to find another use for it) but they also sell their deodorants in cardboard tubes too which can be recycled but explains why I can’t say this swap is completely zero waste.

3. Soap Sacks & Solid Soap / Shampoo / Conditioner

Maybe you’d rather get back to plain old fashion soap in the shower, or maybe like me, your 1L bottles are used more for detergent and washing up liquid instead of shower gels, shampoo and conditioner. A Soap sack is an amazing thing to have. Loofah’s, which are often found in showers across the globe, are made out of plastic and not kind on our skin. When one gets old and grotty it’s just thrown away. A lot of soap sacks are made out of natural materials which can be composted after use. I bought mine from plastic freedom and it works wonders! Now if you’re using a soap sack you need to move to solid soaps and these can be found anywhere and are usually kinder on your skin. Solid shampoos and conditioners are also a really great swap to make, as again, most are kinder and gentler on your hair (remember the app YUKA I spoke about in a previous blog post? You’ll be shocked by just how many bathroom items have poor ingredients in them.) So finish the rest of your shampoos, conditioners and shower gels (but keep the bottles to re-use!) and swap over to solid soaps. Check out this blog post from the plastic freedom website which discusses why we should be making the switch to all natural soaps.

4. Dry Shampoo

This one may seem like a random choice, but I hate washing my hair with a passion. I try to do it once a week, or twice if it’s getting really greasy, and I stopped using aerosol cans a long time ago because I always felt like I was choking underneath a cloud of spray. I knew I still wanted some form of dry shampoo, but really wasn’t sure how I would be able to find a zero waste version of it and, right now I have one that is as close to zero waste as I can get. The dry shampoo is also from plastic freedom and comes in a paper bag. I’ve linked the brunette option, but you can choose between brown, blonde and red hair. As you can see from the picture I’ve included, it is a loose powder. I had an old glass jar that used to be a candle which I’ve put the dry shampoo in along with an old plastic measuring spoon that was from a box of washing detergent. So, while the paper bag the dry shampoo initially came in was recycled (hence why it’s not perfectly zero waste) I’ve been able to save and reuse some items that would have otherwise been thrown away. 

5. Flannels / fabric / fabric rounds

A pretty standard swap. My first ever blog post was about wet wipes, how bad they are for the environment and how easy it is to swap other to other options. Flannels, cloths, old clothes and other miscellaneous fabrics are a great swap for anything single use. I’ve had old fabric turned into reusable rounds and used them alongside flannels for washing my face, cleaning surfaces, wiping up spills... everything! And then, once it’s been used, it can just be chucked in the wash and used again. It’s important to try to re-purpose everything. If you can give something a second, third, fourth life, then you’re nailing it when it comes to living zero waste.

What items would be in your top 5 zero waste / less waste lists? Let me know in the comments below, by reblogging, or by dropping me a message on my page. I would love to hear from you all.

Until next time,

The Sustainable Swap.

[svsmpackaging]

Nail-less Wooden Box Manufacturers: Redefining Packaging with Innovation

In industrial packaging, durability, safety, and efficiency are top priorities. Traditional wooden boxes, though reliable, often have drawbacks such as handling risks and longer assembly times. That's where nail-less wooden box manufacturers come into the picture, offering a smart, secure, and time-saving alternative. SVSM Packaging, a pioneer in advanced packaging solutions, is among the leading names in this space.

What Are Nail-less Wooden Boxes?

Nail-less wooden boxes are specially designed containers that use interlocking mechanisms or metal clips instead of nails or screws. These boxes offer easy assembly, disassembly, and reuse, making them ideal for export packaging, machinery transport, and delicate goods shipping.

Benefits of Nail-less Wooden Boxes

Quick Assembly and Disassembly: These boxes can be assembled in minutes without tools, reducing labour costs and time.

Reusable and Eco-Friendly: Made for multiple uses, they are a sustainable option compared to traditional nail-based crates.

Safe and User-Friendly: No sharp edges or nails mean a lower risk of injury during handling.

High Load-Bearing Capacity: These boxes are engineered for strength and durability despite the lack of nails.

Space-Saving Design: They can be collapsed flat when not in use, saving storage and transport space.

Why Choose SVSM Packaging?

SVSM Packaging stands out among nail-less wooden box manufacturers in India due to its focus on quality, customization, and customer satisfaction. Their boxes are crafted precisely to meet international export standards, ensuring your goods remain protected throughout the supply chain. SVSM provides tailored packaging solutions for all industries, from heavy machinery to fragile components.

Final Thoughts

The shift toward nail-less wooden boxes is a testament to the packaging industry's evolution. For businesses looking for innovative, efficient, and eco-conscious packaging options, SVSM Packaging is the trusted partner, delivering excellence at every step.

Choose smart. Choose safe. Choose SVSM Packaging.

[thepowerofmybeing]

Hottest Trends for 2019

Loads of articles out there in the World Wide Web, some of them I really think we should not leave unnoticed.

Huge development in technology/ car industry field with self driving cars allowed on the roads. It still sounds a bit scary imagining there will be robots taking us down the road and we will just sit in the car waiting to arrive at our destination, reading morning newspaper, playing with kids in the back seat or just polishing our nails. In a way, it sounds sad, non personal, inhumane, but, if you really think how luxurious it will be and how much could be done while the car takes you where you need to, all the arguments are pro robot driving! If it will turn out to be super safe, I’ll be in the line to get one ;-)  “ This cycle has restarted, and the term “driverless car” will soon seem as anachronistic as “horseless carriage.” We don’t know how cars that don’t need human chauffeurs will mold society, but we can be sure a similar gear shift is on the way”  https://www.wired.com/story/guide-self-driving-cars/

If I was a small entrepreneur, I’d read this article:  https://www.metrilo.com/blog/ecommerce-trends-niche-products. I found this information very enticing and up to date. So happy that fast fashion, fast food and fast everything is slowly being replaced by more valued items that would last longer. I am a strong believer in quality and would be so happy to see more exclusive products on shelves of all free standing and e-commerce shops. It would save so much for our planet Earth - Chinese women being locked to their sewing machines doing slave work for the likes of Primark, plastic thrown in oceans and killing wildlife, children playing with hundreds of useless plastic items filled with toxic substances, us all wearing dresses with unfinished seams made of suspicious inflammable materials, us eating food that is not really worthy of being called food - all the danger to our future and our children’s well being. Less is more concept needs to take place in order for this World to not come to an end...Healthy boxed lunches, reusable food wrap, buying for life items, eco friendly lady products, custom cosmetics and apparel, crafted, handmade, novelty and specialty, these are words of new, personalized and original man and woman. And I need the smart backpack (this item is on all trending product lists of 2019) as we all have discovered how amazing it is to travel and see more in life! 

How about Social Media trends in 2019? Well, just like most of the trends, these also become more personalized and more “machine involved” at the same time. https://www.inc.com/john-hall/7-social-media-trends-brands-need-to-know-to-prepare-for-2019.html So, while the CEO of any large company should get on Instagram and tell his audience who he really is, what he eats for breakfast and how he spends his free time, while each social media user and influencer should become the apple of every company’s eye and receive custom attention and care, Chatbots will take care of more and more business conversations and interactions. Its funny how this World is becoming more geared towards individual approach and more robotic at the same time. So while we will be sitting in a car driven by a robot, chatting on the phone with a robot, we will wear more sustainable clothing and eat more healthy food just so we can stay alive longer to interact more with robots and phones ;-) haha, this makes sense! But, to be honest, hopefully this shows an intentional, more purposeful shift towards human intelligence. Robots and computer development is a good thing if used for the principle of our own education and improvement, if the time spent with a robot doesn’t take us away from our families and loved ones and if it makes us brighter and greater.

This post is never going to end? Yep, you guessed it! I am just so amazed from researching this subject! It is so interesting - investigating and predicting, understanding the “whys” of the upcoming year, evaluating customer behavior change and the company reaction to the always changing consumer needs. Here is an article from Forbes about customer experience trends in 2019, how companies are always going above and beyond all customer expectations, how some are succeeding and some - not. “Continually re-evaluating processes, products and business models is what keeps companies alive and successful in the ever-changing minds of customers.” We have to stay on demand or the ship will sink, we have to be flexible to adjust to the needs and changes, we have to sustain the connection with our customer and do it in a way that amazes, pleases and keeps them coming back for more. This is a very good article about change, expectations and staying popular with your buyer. Digitalization here is mentioned as an aid - helpful and useful tool - which does not replace human presence, but improves the overall experience, saves time for both sides and improves the quality of information for both - the assistants and the consumers. ‘When machines control the mundane tasks, humans have more time to dedicate to the uniquely human tasks, like strategy, creativity, innovation, problem solving, connecting with customers and developing a strong customer experience.’- https://www.forbes.com/sites/blakemorgan/2018/12/05/five-trends-shaping-the-future-of-customer-experience-in-2019/#44e4d61c7bb6

And last, but, most certainly, not least - fashion news for 2019. Haute Couture and Mode can not be forgotten or let out as this is our everyday expression, our individual approach to showcasing who we are and as Elle puts it: ‘The question of how designers envision women, what a woman wears and the image she projects has become a political hot potato. The big takeaway from the season? To value those visions that really are attuned to reflecting our truth in some way so that we can do us.” I LOVE this sentence! Yes! We celebrate and showcase US! We move away from sweatpants and hoodies, leave our athleisure-wear in the drawers and replace it with ruffles, silky materials and bubble skirts. We put couture dressmaking and craft skills in front shelves just like craft drinks and personalized socks (reference from previous article about niche products). We add small puoches and large pockets on all our clothing items, we purchase a stylish backpack to make a statement and prove to all that we are worldly travelers. We add some hippy charm and burst of 60′s color into our wardrobe to celebrate all our beloved icons from the past. Hell, we even put on shoes with square toes (not sure I’ll get into this trend...). But, hey, we do not have to do it all, we can just borrow a few ideas and tips from each trend, we can just use it as a reference when we look for a new outfit in 2019. After all, this should not be difficult, as we just have to stay true to ourselves - the motto of my page here. Don’t be who you are not in 2019! It is my wish to all of you and my personal New Years resolution! May you be happy in your own skin! Cheers!