In my earlier article, Camera Bag Versatility, I described how I use lens cases to store most of my lenses along with a few smaller gear items. Over time, we all face gear upgrades—and sometimes, the realization that certain pieces just don’t get enough use to justify keeping them. When that happens, I like to recycle my lens cases whenever possible. It’s a simple approach that works well for me, and it might work for you too.
The example below shows the former case for my Fujifilm 23mm f/2 lens, which became available after I passed the lens on to another photographer. I realized I simply wasn’t using it enough to earn its place in my bag.
As you can see, the process is quite simple. I use the same marker I originally labeled the case with—a Sharpie Silver Metallic Permanent Marker. I draw a rectangle around the lens number (in this case, “23”) and fill it in. After letting it dry for about fifteen minutes, I give it a second coat and call it done.
When I repurpose the case later, I just take a dark-colored permanent Sharpie and write the new lens designation inside the rectangle, as shown in image #1 (18–55).
All of the cases are now recycled and ready for use again. The first one began as the “23” case, the middle example shows a recycled zoom-lens case, and the third is the repurposed “18–55” case from the first photo—ready to go once more. It’s a simple process that saves both time and money.
I hope you found this little tip helpful!
UPDATE July 2021
I am now using this cloth tape on top of the previous marker info. It is very thin, strong, and can be easily removed. As soon as I can get to it, I will provide a photo.