The gouge is ground back far enough on the under side to make the cutting edge level with its back, and then beveled off on the inside to a sharp edge. The gouge E is placed in the hole D with the cutting edge on the center line, as shown, and held in place with a wood plug, F. A little soap applied to the bore C will prevent binding.
To use the tool, a strip of wood is pointed sufficiently to allow it to enter the hole C a short distance. The strip may be rotated by holding it in the chuck of a lathe while the tool is held in the hand, using the handle of the gouge to prevent its turning with the stick.—Contributed by J. A. Brearley, Washington, D. C.
Hanging Ladder for a Hatchway
A handy ladder to swing from a hatchway can be made of a solid plank, as shown. Cut the plank to the length desired and saw notches on each side to form steps. With a solid hook to fasten it in a similar hook in the ceiling, at the edge of the opening, it makes a novel yet practical ladder.—Contributed by Victor Carpenter, South Bend, Ind.
An Oilcan Stopper
An empty cartridge shell makes an excellent stopper for an oilcan in case the original stopper becomes lost. The cap in the shell is removed and the hole enlarged with the tang of a file so that a leather thong can be inserted. A knot is tied in the thong on both sides of the base, to prevent the thong from slipping either way. The end of the thong is tied to the bail of the can.
Enamel for Steel Fishing Rods
Make a thin solution of shellac in alcohol and add a teaspoonful of Venice turpentine to each half pint, and the same quantity of lampblack for a black enamel. Scrape the bare spots on the rod and heat it slightly, to melt the shellac for the first coat. Use a fine brush and apply two or three coats, which will give a smooth, glossy, and elastic surface that will not scale or crack.