after tying salt patterns and using softex this summer, my jar of softex gelled up and got really thick and beyond any use. so after buying a new jar, i got small glass jars that we use in the auto body shop for touch-up paint and give to customers.
i was able to split the softex into 3 smaller jars so i always have a fresh supply.
most body shops have these touch-up bottles. and i bet if you brought along some coffees or a bag of cookies or muffins for the guys you could trade for a few bottles.
by the way, after 30 years of doing body work myself. friday was my last day. i start a new job with the local DPW in a week 
trout hunter 77