Back To The Family Handyman
From 
Del.icio.us
Digg
Reddit
Facebook
StumbleUpon
TwitThisClothes hanger wire compass
Can’t find your compass to trace small circles and arcs for projects? Cut a section of wire from a coat hanger, firmly tape the upper end of a pencil to the wire, then bend the untaped end of the wire to create the desired diameter. Sharpen the end of the wire with a file or grinder, then add more tape across the pencil-to-wire angle so the wire can’t bend—and change the diameter—when you press down to spin the compass.
Shannon Hooge
Weed-whacking chaps
Click Image to enlarge.
String trimmers leave your yard looking great—and your work pants and boots stained something fierce. Here’s a slick solution: Cut the legs off a pair of old sweat pants, then slide them upside down over your work pants. The elastic bands will hold them up over your knees. Measure carefully before snipping your sweats so they drape nicely over your shoes. You’ll be the fashion setter for all the other weed whackers on the block.
Sheila Lincicome
Warranty reminder
When you’re installing a new appliance or other electrical item, mark the purchase date and warranty length on a piece of masking tape. Stick the tape and receipt to the back of the machine for readily available warranty info.
Kenny Liles
Coffee can drip control
Coffee cans are great for dispensing paint if you cut a small section from the plastic lid and press it on the rim. Use the cut edge of the lid to scrape off excess paint so it won’t drip.
Tim Leggin
Hook and chain cord hanger
A length of chain and a wall-mounted coat hook provide a secure hangout for bulky electrical cords, ropes or other cumbersome coils. Hang one end of the chain on the lower hook, then loop the chain around the coiled cord and attach the other end of the chain to the upper hook.
Rich Minter
No-rattle ceiling fan
If the screws that hold the light globe to your ceiling fan tend to work loose and then hum or rattle, slip a wide rubber band around the neck of the globe where the screws grip it. The rubber band prevents the screws from loosening, dampens any noise and protects the globe from overzealous screw tighteners.
Patrick Hunter
Dry doormat
Click Image to enlarge.
Is your doormat squishy and virtually useless after a rainstorm? With a fine-tooth handsaw or a jigsaw, cut a piece of 2 x 4-ft. suspended ceiling plastic grid ($7 at a home center) to fit under your mat. Air will circulate better under the elevated mat and help it dry faster and prevent mold from growing in the fabric. The plastic grid is sturdy and won’t break under the heftiest footstep in your neighborhood.
Beth Braun
Editor • BRUCE WIEBE
Art Direction • HOPE FAY
Photography • BILL ZUEHLKE
Advertisement 
