By attaching pedals to the space key and shift key I increased my typewriting speed about 20 words a minute. I made two pedals fast to the typewriter desk, as shown, then ran stiff steel wires up to the keys, connecting the latter to the wire with rubber bands. The pedals are adjusted so that a light tap operates them. If a light typewriter is used, it should be fixed to the desk. The wires can be unhooked quickly from the typewriter, and suspended on hooks under the edge of the desk.—W. J. M., Manila, P. I.
Timing Pointer on Watch Crystal
Working in a photo-print finishing plant where often several jobs need attention and accurate timing, all at the same time, I find a pointer on my watch crystal a great help. The crystal was loose enough to permit turning it. I glued a three-cornered piece of black paper to the under side of the crystal at the edge. When a batch of prints is placed in a bath, the pointer is set 15 minutes ahead of the minute hand. When the latter reaches the pointer, it reminds me to remove the prints. After placing a batch of films in the developing tank, I set the pointer ahead of the minute hand the required time for developing, placing the watch in view, to see readily when the time is up.—A. J. Viken, Waterloo, Iowa.
Portable Tent Made from an Umbrella and Paper Muslin
Picnickers desiring to go in bathing are often handicapped by the lack of a convenient place to change clothes. An umbrella and some paper muslin provides a light portable tent that is practical and inexpensive for such uses. Cut the dark paper muslin into as many 9-ft. lengths as there are sections of the umbrella. Sew these strips together. At each seam tie a string about a yard long and a stout cord 15 ft. long to the handle to hold up the tent. For use, open the umbrella, invert it, and to each rib tie one of the strings. Then tie one end of the cord to the handle of the umbrella and suspend it from a tree or other support as shown, weighting or tying down the other end.—Mabel Hubbard Birch, Cincinnati, Ohio.
Memorandum List for Camping and Outing Trips
Persons who occasionally take an outing or go camping will find a written list of articles needed on the trip a great saving of time and mental energy. This list should be made while making preparations, and again read shortly before the departure. It may be kept from year to year, and items added or withdrawn, as experience teaches. Classification is desirable, under heads such as camping gear, cooking utensils, tableware, foods, supplies, etc. Each member of a party can agree to furnish certain articles, avoiding duplication. Anyone who has gone on outings and left behind some much-needed article, will readily realize the help such a list can be, and by its use the amateur may profit from the experience of others.