Forget sad desk lunches and vending machine snacks. We’re talking about bringing some serious style and fun to your midday meal with adult lunchboxes. Think of it as a grown-up version of those cool lunch kits from back in the day, but way more sophisticated. This guide is all about finding or creating the perfect lunchbox that’s not just practical, but a total statement piece. We’ll explore some unexpected places to find inspiration, from vintage collectibles to clever DIY projects, all to help you pack a lunch that’s as enjoyable as the meal itself.
Key Takeaways
- Adult lunchboxes are more than just containers; they’re a way to express personal style.
- Collecting vintage fast food toys and memorabilia can inspire unique lunchbox designs.
- DIY projects, like basic box-making or woodworking, offer personalized lunchbox solutions.
- Exploring niche collectibles, such as Planters Peanut items or Blenko glass, can spark creative ideas.
- The goal is to move beyond boring, functional containers and embrace fun, collectible-worthy adult lunchboxes.
1. McDonald’s Happy Meal Toys
Okay, let’s talk about McDonald’s Happy Meal toys. These little guys have been a thing for ages, right? They started way back in 1979, and since then, McDonald’s has handed out thousands of different toys with their kids’ meals. It’s kind of wild when you think about it. People actually collect these things, and some of them can be worth a surprising amount of money.
The sheer volume and variety of these toys make them a fascinating area for collectors. You’ve got everything from simple plastic figures to more elaborate sets, often tied into popular movies or TV shows. It’s not just about the toys themselves, either; the boxes and bags they came in are often collected too.
Here’s a quick look at what you might find in a collector’s guide:
- Toy Categories: Action figures, dolls, vehicles, puzzles, games, and novelty items.
- Promotional Tie-ins: Toys linked to Disney movies, Hot Wheels, Barbie, and many more.
- Variations: Different colors, regional differences, or slight design changes that make a toy rare.
It’s pretty amazing how these small, often inexpensive toys have become a significant part of pop culture and a hobby for many. If you ever find yourself with a box of old Happy Meal toys in the attic, it might be worth taking a closer look!
Collecting these toys isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about preserving a piece of childhood and pop culture history. The detailed guides available help collectors identify, catalog, and even value their finds, turning a simple box of toys into a treasure trove.
2. Fast Food Toys
Beyond the golden arches, a whole universe of fast food toys existed, especially during the 1990s. Think about places like Burger King, Wendy’s, Taco Bell, and even smaller chains. They all got in on the action, churning out promotional items designed to get kids (and let’s be honest, adults too) excited about their meals. These weren’t just random plastic trinkets; many were tied to popular movies, cartoons, or had their own little series. Collecting these can be a surprisingly deep rabbit hole.
It’s pretty wild how many different restaurants participated. We’re talking about places like Jack in the Box, KFC, Pizza Hut, Sonic, Subway, and many more. Each one had its own approach, sometimes partnering with big names like Disney or Warner Brothers to create toys that felt like a piece of a larger franchise.
Here’s a look at some of the restaurants that were big players:
- Burger King
- Wendy’s
- Taco Bell
- KFC
- Jack in the Box
- Pizza Hut
- Sonic
- Subway
These toys often came with specific meal packages, and keeping track of them all can be a challenge. Many collectors use guides that list the items, provide photos, and even offer estimated values. It’s a fun way to connect with childhood memories and maybe even find a few forgotten treasures.
The sheer variety is staggering. You’ve got everything from simple plastic figures to more elaborate sets, often featuring characters that were huge at the time. It really speaks to how integrated fast food became with popular culture during that era.
3. McDonald’s Pre-Happy Meal Toys
Before the Happy Meal even existed, McDonald’s was handing out toys. These weren’t just random trinkets; they were often part of specific promotions or tied to holidays. Think of things like plastic figurines, simple puzzles, or even branded coloring books. These early giveaways set the stage for the collectible craze that would later define the Happy Meal.
Collecting these pre-Happy Meal items means digging into a specific era of McDonald’s history, roughly from the 1950s up to 1979. It’s a look back at a time when fast food was still a novelty for many families. The toys from this period are often simpler, reflecting the manufacturing capabilities and design trends of their time.
Here’s a look at what you might find:
- Promotional Items: Often tied to movie releases or special events.
- Character Figures: Early versions of McDonaldland characters before they became a Happy Meal staple.
- Activity Kits: Things like coloring pages or simple craft sets.
It’s a fascinating niche for collectors who appreciate the nostalgia and the evolution of fast-food marketing. These items can be harder to find in good condition compared to later Happy Meal toys, making them quite sought after by dedicated collectors.
4. Planters Peanut Collectibles
You know, Planters Peanuts isn’t just about salty snacks. It’s got a whole history of cool advertising stuff that people actually collect. Think about it – for decades, they put out all sorts of little trinkets and promotional items. It all started way back when Amedeo Obici got his peanut roaster and eventually teamed up with Mario Peruzzi to form the company in 1906. That’s almost a century of marketing genius right there.
The real draw for collectors is the sheer variety of memorabilia. From early advertising pieces to items tied to Mr. Peanut’s many birthdays, there’s a lot to track down. It’s kind of wild how a simple snack brand could create such a dedicated following for its promotional goods. These items aren’t just random bits of plastic; they tell a story about American advertising and culture over the years.
Here’s a look at some of the types of things you might find:
- Advertising tins and containers
- Figurines and toys featuring Mr. Peanut
- Promotional items from events or special campaigns
- Early advertisements and signage
It’s interesting to see how the company evolved its branding. For instance, after Standard Brands took over in 1961, they kept producing premiums, often linked to things like auto racing or golf. They even had special items for Mr. Peanut’s 75th birthday in 1991. It shows a consistent effort to keep the brand visible and memorable through these collectibles.
Collecting Planters Peanut memorabilia is like taking a trip through a good chunk of 20th-century American advertising. It’s more than just old stuff; it’s a piece of history you can hold in your hand.
5. Blenko Glass
When you think about collecting, glass might not be the first thing that pops into your head, but it totally should be. Blenko Glass, based in Milton, West Virginia, has been around since the late 1800s, and they’re still making hand-blown glass today. That’s pretty rare in the US these days.
Lots of collectors are really into the Blenko pieces from the 1950s and 60s. These designs, often created by folks like Winslow Anderson, Wayne Husted, and Joel Myers, are known for their bright colors and cool shapes. It’s not just about the old stuff, though. Even pieces from the 1970s are starting to get noticed and can fetch a good price.
If you’re looking to get into Blenko collecting, having a good reference is key. There are books out there that reprint the old company catalogs, showing you exactly what was made and when. Some even include guides for what these items are worth now.
Here’s a look at some of the reference materials available:
- Blenko Catalogs 1972-1983: This book reprints twelve catalogs from those years, covering a period when the company’s label changed. It’s a great resource for understanding Blenko’s middle and later years, with a value guide included.
- Blenko Glass 1962-1971: This one is a full-color reprint of catalogs from 1962 through 1971. It’s a solid record of their products from that decade, with original prices and current market values.
- Blenko: Cool ’50s & ’60s Glass: With over 675 color photos, this book focuses on the really popular mid-century designs. It talks about the designers and even includes the 1960 catalog.
Collecting Blenko glass is about appreciating the craftsmanship and the vibrant artistry that has been a part of American glassmaking for over a century. It’s a tangible piece of design history that can add a real pop of color to any collection.
6. Fast Food Collectibles
Beyond the golden arches, a whole universe of fast food toys exists. Think about all those little extras you got with your burger and fries from places like Burger King, Wendy’s, or Taco Bell. These aren’t just random trinkets; they’re often part of a larger promotion, sometimes tied to movies or popular characters. Collecting them can be a fun way to revisit childhood memories or just appreciate the marketing creativity of these chains.
It’s pretty wild how many different restaurants got in on the toy game. We’re talking about everything from Jack in the Box characters to Pizza Hut giveaways. Many of these toys were made by big names you’d recognize, like Disney or Warner Brothers, which really adds to their appeal.
Here’s a look at some of the restaurants that offered up these little treasures:
- Burger King
- Wendy’s
- Taco Bell
- Arby’s
- KFC
- Dairy Queen
- White Castle
If you’re thinking about starting a collection, it’s helpful to know what you’re looking for. Some guides focus on specific decades, like the 1990s, which was a huge time for these kinds of promotions. They often include photos and estimated values, which is pretty neat.
The sheer volume of different toys released by various fast food chains over the years is staggering. Many of these items, while simple, hold a certain nostalgic charm and can be quite sought after by collectors today. It’s a whole niche within the broader world of collectibles.
7. Box-Making Basics
So, you want to build a box? It sounds simple enough, right? But there’s actually a fair bit to it if you want it to look good and hold together. It’s not just about slapping some wood together. Getting the joints right is probably the most important part. A box that falls apart after a week isn’t much use to anyone, is it?
First off, you need to think about the design. What kind of box are you making? A simple little trinket box, or something bigger? Then there’s the wood. Different woods have different looks and strengths. You’ll want to pick something that suits your project and is easy enough to work with. After you’ve got your wood, you need to prepare it – making sure it’s flat and smooth.
Here are some key things to consider:
- Wood Selection: Hardwoods like oak or maple are sturdy but can be tough to work. Softer woods like pine are easier but might dent more easily.
- Joint Types: You’ve got options like butt joints (simple, but not super strong), rabbets, dadoes, and the classic dovetail or finger joints. Each has its own look and strength.
- Cutting and Assembly: Precision is key here. Measure twice, cut once, as they say. Gluing and clamping need to be done carefully to get tight seams.
- Finishing: Sanding smooth and applying a finish (like varnish, oil, or paint) protects the wood and makes it look nice.
It can seem like a lot, but taking it step-by-step makes it manageable. You can start with simpler joints and work your way up to the more complex ones as you get more comfortable.
Building a good box is a skill that takes practice. Don’t get discouraged if your first few attempts aren’t perfect. Every project is a chance to learn something new about working with wood and making things that last.
8. Green Woodworking
So, you’ve got some wood, but it’s not exactly dry and seasoned like you’d expect for furniture making. That’s where "green woodworking" comes in. It’s all about working with wood that’s just been cut, still full of moisture. This approach uses hand tools and a different set of skills than you might be used to.
Instead of relying on big, loud power tools, you’ll be using things like a maul and froe, a broad axe, an adze, and a drawknife. These tools let you shape the wood while it’s still soft and pliable. Think of it as a more direct connection to the material. You can hew logs into beams, split wood into smaller pieces (called riving), shave off thin layers, and even bend the wood while it’s wet to create curves.
Here are some basic steps and ideas:
- Selecting Trees: Knowing which trees are good for green woodworking is the first step. Some woods work better than others when they’re fresh.
- Hewing and Riving: This is how you break down a log into usable lumber or smaller pieces without a sawmill.
- Shaping: Using tools like the drawknife and carving knife to sculpt the wood into your desired form.
- Joinery: Learning how to connect pieces, which can sometimes involve steam bending or using the wood’s natural moisture.
It’s a method that’s been around for ages, and it results in pieces that have a really unique, natural look. You’re not fighting the wood; you’re working with its current state. It’s a bit more hands-on, and honestly, pretty satisfying when you see what you can make from a freshly cut log.
Working with green wood means you have to think about how the wood will change as it dries. It shrinks and can warp, so you need to account for that in your designs and joinery. It’s a different kind of planning than working with kiln-dried lumber.
9. Trade Stimulators & Counter Games
Remember those little coin-operated machines you’d see at the counter in old general stores or maybe even at the barber shop? Those are trade stimulators and counter games. They’re a really interesting part of collecting history, kind of like a precursor to modern arcade games but way simpler.
These machines got their start way back in the 1880s, mostly in saloons. When Prohibition hit in the 1920s, they had to find new homes, so they popped up in stores and restaurants. The idea was to get people to spend a little extra money, maybe on a candy, a cigar, or just to pass the time. They really took off again after Prohibition ended.
Collecting these is pretty neat because each one has a story and a maker. You can find machines from companies like Groetchen Tool, Buckley, and Bally, which were big names back in the day. They were made right up until the 1960s, so there’s a good chunk of history there to explore.
Here’s a quick look at what makes them collectible:
- History: Where and when it was made tells a lot.
- Maker: Certain manufacturers are more sought after.
- Condition: Like anything old, how well it’s been kept matters.
- Rarity: Some models are much harder to find than others.
It’s kind of like collecting anything else, really. You look for things that are interesting, have a good story, and are, you know, not impossible to find. Plus, they look pretty cool sitting on a shelf.
These machines were designed to encourage impulse buys. A few pennies could get you a gumball, a cigarette, or a chance at a prize, all while keeping you entertained for a moment. It was a clever way to boost sales and add a bit of fun to everyday shopping.
10. Nail Pullers With Patent Reference
So, you’ve got a project that involves taking things apart, and you need a tool that can get the job done. When it comes to removing nails, especially stubborn ones, a good nail puller is your best friend. But have you ever stopped to think about the history and the sheer variety of these tools? It turns out there’s a whole world of them, and many have been patented over the years.
The sheer ingenuity behind nail pullers is quite something. From simple claw designs to more complex mechanisms, inventors have been trying to make nail removal easier for a long time. A book titled "Nail Pullers With Patent Reference" by Fredrich Raymond P. actually covers all known patents for these tools. It’s a 419-page softbound volume, which gives you an idea of just how many different designs exist.
Think about it: you’ve got your basic claw hammer, which works for many situations. But what about when the nail head is damaged, or it’s set flush with the wood? That’s where specialized nail pullers come in. Some are designed for specific types of nails or materials, while others are built for heavy-duty use.
Here are a few types of nail-pulling mechanisms you might encounter:
- Claw-style: The classic design, good for most common nails.
- Pry-bar style: Offers more leverage for tougher jobs.
- Plier-style: Often used for smaller nails or when precise grip is needed.
- Specialty extractors: Tools designed for specific situations, like removing headless nails or working in tight spaces.
The history of tool patents, including those for nail pullers, shows a continuous effort to improve efficiency and solve common problems faced by builders, carpenters, and DIY enthusiasts. Each patent represents a unique solution to a specific challenge.
If you’re a collector of antique tools or just someone who appreciates well-designed implements, looking into the patent history of nail pullers can be surprisingly interesting. It’s a peek into the practical side of invention.
Discovering the right tools can make a big difference. For instance, understanding different types of nail pullers, including those with patent references, can help you choose the best one for your needs. Want to learn more about specialized tools and how they can help you with your projects? Visit our website for expert advice and a wide selection of tools.
Lunchtime, Solved.
So there you have it. We’ve gone through a bunch of ideas for packing lunches that are way better than whatever’s lurking in the vending machine. It’s not about being fancy, just about making food you actually want to eat. Think about it: a little planning can save you money and make your midday meal something to look forward to. Give these ideas a try, and pretty soon, you’ll be the envy of the office breakroom. Your stomach will thank you, and your wallet will too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of toys can I find in old fast food kids’ meals?
You can find all sorts of cool toys! Many restaurants gave away toys based on popular cartoons like Disney or Warner Brothers characters. Sometimes they had themed toys related to movies, or even just fun little plastic figures and games. Books about these toys show pictures of everything from cars and animals to characters from shows you might remember.
Are McDonald’s Happy Meal toys the only ones worth collecting?
Not at all! While McDonald’s Happy Meal toys are super popular, lots of other fast food places had great toys too. Places like Burger King, Wendy’s, Taco Bell, and even smaller chains offered cool premiums. Collecting toys from different restaurants can be a lot of fun and show you a bigger picture of fast food history.
When did fast food restaurants start giving away toys with kids’ meals?
The idea of giving kids special toys with their meals really took off in the 1970s and 1980s. McDonald’s started offering toys before they even had the official Happy Meal. Some places were doing promotions even earlier, like Burger Chef in the early 70s. It became a big trend that lasted for decades.
What are ‘trade stimulators’ and ‘counter games’?
These are old coin-operated machines that you’d find in places like saloons or stores, especially back in the day. They were designed to get people to spend money by offering a chance to win something, like a prize or a cigar. They’re interesting collectibles because they have a lot of history tied to them.
What is ‘green woodworking’?
Green woodworking is a way of working with wood that’s just been cut and is still wet, or ‘green.’ It’s a cool method because the wood is easier to shape. You can make all sorts of things with it, like chairs, bowls, or even tools. It’s a creative and often simpler way to make things from wood.
Are there books that help identify and value old fast food toys?
Yes, there are! Several books are like guides for collectors. They show lots of pictures of toys from different restaurants, often from the 1990s and earlier. These books usually list the toys, show what they look like, and give an idea of how much they might be worth today. Many also have check boxes so you can keep track of your collection.
What’s special about Planters peanut collectibles?
Planters, the peanut company, has been around for a long time and has created many collectible items. These can include advertising pieces, items related to their famous mascot Mr. Peanut, and things from their involvement in events like car racing. Books about Planters collectibles cover these items, especially from the mid-20th century onwards.
Where can I learn about making boxes?
If you’re interested in making boxes, there are books that teach you the basics. They cover everything from choosing the right wood and cutting it carefully to putting the pieces together with strong joints. You can learn how to add decorative touches, hinges, and even special linings to create beautiful boxes.