A device for punching identification marks in the pages of books or papers, may be made easily by setting pins into a small box filled with sealing wax. The box should be large enough to accommodate the desired wording without crowding, leaving about ¹⁄₄ in. all around the edge. Cut the box, which may be of cardboard, to a height ¹⁄₁₆ in. less than the length of a common pin. Mark the words to be punched on a piece of cardboard which just fits into the box. Punch holes along the letters and transfer them to the bottom of the box. Insert pins from the outside through the bottom of the box and permit their ends to come out of the holes in the cardboard guide. Cut away enough of the guide piece so that the melted sealing wax can be poured in, setting the pins firmly. The guide piece is then removed, exposing the ends of the pins about ¹⁄₁₆ in. If the work is carefully done they will be of uniform length. Place heavy blotting paper or cardboard under the page when using the punch.—D. G. Stevenson, Chicago, Ill.
Blotter Attached to Wrist Saves Time
The annoyance of having to look for a misplaced blotter or to pick it up each time a signature is to be blotted, may be avoided by the use of the wrist blotter shown in the sketch. It is made by folding a piece of blotting paper, 6 in. wide and 12 in. long, into three sections. A rubber band is placed in the fold of the blotter and passed around the wrist, thus holding it in place until no longer needed. When one portion of the blotter becomes soiled, the folding may be reversed and a new surface exposed.—Frank W. Roth, Joplin, Mo.
Celluloid Cover for Road Maps
Road maps are easily soiled and torn unless properly protected, and a satisfactory case to hold them should provide for conveniently examining the map. A piece of transparent celluloid about twice the size of the map when folded can be made into a suitable cover. Fold the celluloid into an envelope form and rivet or sew the ends, leaving the fourth edge open. The map is inserted in the cover with the desired section uppermost, affording protection and ready access at the same time.
Shield for Heater in Chick Brooding House
A shield of sheet metal, having a small heater in the center of it, provides a good means of warming a brooding house for small chicks. The heat is radiated from the shield and the chicks remain at a distance, seeking a comfortable temperature. The device may be made easily by cutting a sheet of metal to form a cone-shaped hood and fitting it with a vent passing out through the roof of the house.—Samuel S. Snelbaker, York, Pa.