Umbrella Used as a Clothes Drier
A clothes drier that can be carried in a purse or a vest pocket will appeal to travelers, and persons living in small quarters. An umbrella, four yards of strong wrapping twine, and several small brass rings are required. Knot the rings into the twine at intervals, measuring the distance between the rib points of the umbrella, and hook the twine to the points by the rings, as shown, providing considerable drying space for small articles. Hook the umbrella handle over a suitable support, or tie it carefully to the supporting pipe of a light fixture in the middle of the room, ready for the articles to be dried. The twine may also be wrapped around the points, but it is better to carry a line with rings attached.
¶By reversing the handle on a dust brush which has been worn near the point, additional wear may be obtained.
Metal Band Stiffens Brush
In painting, and other work where a brush is used, it is often desirable to stiffen the bristles. This may be done readily by fixing a band of sheet metal over the brush, to slide tightly. By adjusting it, the length and stiffness of the part of the bristles used may be controlled.
Rubber Band Prevents Tangling of Telephone Cord
It is exasperating to pick up the telephone receiver to answer a call and find the cord twisted or wound around the telephone standard. A long receiver cord will not tangle if a rubber band is used to support it, as shown in the sketch. The elastics permits considerable play, and if the fullest extension of the cord is desired, it may be supported on several linked rubber bands, on the left of the standard.—K. M. Coggeshall, Webster Groves, Mo.