Need small screws for little hinges

[Andrew Pitonyak]

I purchased some cheap brass hinges from Lee Valley that use size 0, 1, or 2 screws. I neglected to purchase accompanying screws. I noted that Lee Valley seems to have a decent price on brass screws of this sort:

http://www.leevalley.com/en/hardware/page.aspx?cat=3,41306,41334&p=40960

I have not installed many hinges, but the usual advice seems to be that I first finish the pilot hole using a "not brass" screw. Sadly, Lee Valley does not sell screws in this size that are not brass. So, today I wandered by Lowes and Andersons. Neither carried screws of this size either.

So, where can I buy steel screws of this size?

I found these screws at microfasteners, but the non-brass screws are for metal, so the configuration is different for the threads.... If I don't care about brass, would these be a problem since they are threaded all the way to the head and it looks like the head may have a slightly different angle?

http://www.microfasteners.com/catalog/products/TWSFHWB.cfm
http://www.microfasteners.com/catalog/products/TWSSMFP.cfm

The smallest scews here are #2
http://www.mcmaster.com/#pull-out-resistant-wood-screws/=ikwlr0

Then again, perhaps for the smaller screws, first using a non-brass screw does not matter....

[Lee Schierer]

When dealing with brass screws it is best to drill a properly sized pilot hole. It is nice if you can run a steel screw in first, but as you are finding out this is not always possible. Then apply some beeswax (not soap) to the threads before you attempt to screw it in. Run the screw in and when you feel resistance, back it out and apply more beeswax and reinsert the screw. Forcing the screw in is a sure way to break it. Beeswax will act as a lubricant and will not stain your wood or interfere with the finish like soap will. Paraffin does not work well because it doesn't stick tho the threads very well. A small lump of beeswax will last you for many years. The keys are properly sized pilot holes and thread lubrication. Even with steel screws, they will turn in much easier with a bit of beeswax on the threads.

My local True Value hardware carries a pretty good assortment of screws. You can also order screws from McMaster Carr

[Andrew Pitonyak]

Thanks..... I went ahead and ordered a bunch of brass screws from Lee Valley and will simply forgo the non-brass variety for the small screws then. I already have some bees wax, so I will use that rather than my regular canning wax

[Paul Muhlstadt]

I get my small screws for this purpose from my local Ace Hardware. They have everything down to screws for eye glasses. And they help you find what you want.

[Andrew Pitonyak]

I get my small screws for this purpose from my local Ace Hardware. They have everything down to screws for eye glasses. And they help you find what you want.

Lot of truth in that.... I will stop in this weekend and take a look.

[glenn bradley]

I go to microfasteners-dot-com for small steel screws to pre-thread for small brass screws. Haven't broken a screw since I started doing this.

[Mike Heidrick]

Do you have an Ace hardware? Try there.

[Andrew Pitonyak]

Do you have an Ace hardware? Try there.

Yep, have a local ace.... they are very helpful in general. Will stop in tomorrow.