The threader consists of two brass pieces riveted together so that they will make an extension conical hole for the thread to enter freely. The length of the pieces should be such that when the upper end of the threader is placed against the needle-holder end, the conical hole will coincide with the hole in the needle. A piece of thin sheet metal is placed between the pieces above the conical hole to make an opening below for the thread to pass through when the threader is removed. The opposite edges of the brass pieces from the large part of the conical hole are filed to a bevel so that when they are riveted together they will form a V-shaped groove to center the needle.—Contributed by Harriet M. Kerbaugh, Allentown, Pa.
Winding Coiled Springs
When a helical spring is needed badly, one can be made up quickly by winding the wire around in the threads of an ordinary bolt. An accurate spring can be formed, and the pitch between each coil will be exact for the entire length. In removing the spring from the bolt, grasp the coil in one hand and turn the bolt with the other.
Revolving-Wheel Ruling Pen
A ruling pen that will do neat work and not leave any ink on the ruler, and which with its small ink fount draws many lines at one filling, can be made from an old discarded revolving-wheel glass cutter. A ¹⁄₈-in. hole is drilled in the body, or handle part, just above the wheel. The hole is filled with a piece of felt—a piece cut from an old felt hat will do—rolled to fit snugly, so that it will bear lightly against the wheel. The felt is soaked with the ink to be used, and the pen is ready for use.—Contributed by Bert Fish, Rochester, N. Y.
¶An excellent method of closing a crack in a wall before papering is to paste a thin strip of linen over the crack. This not only makes a smooth job, but prevents the paper from tearing, should the crack widen.
