Build a Ball Tower
Some children have a fascination with all types of balls, leading to quite the collection over time. Storing them efficiently—especially the ones buried at the bottom—can be a challenge. A clever solution involves using bungee cords: they’re sturdy enough to hold everything in place yet flexible enough to allow access to any ball, even those at the base. Looking to expand your garage storage? Try constructing this innovative shelving unit featuring pegboard for added versatility.
New Uses for Old Glove Fingers
Don’t toss those worn-out work gloves just yet—snip off the fingers and repurpose them in a variety of useful ways. They make great protective covers for chisel tips when transporting tools and can also cushion the handles of pliers for a more comfortable grip. There are plenty of other handy uses, too.
Make a Squeegee From a Rake
In a pinch for a squeegee? Grab a section of pipe insulation and secure it to the back of a garden rake using a couple of cable ties. It functions surprisingly well, and the best part is, you can still use the rake without needing to remove it.
Double Up on Stubborn Nails
Removing nails—particularly trim nails with tiny heads or those with broken-off tops—can be frustrating. A handy technique is to combine two tools: use locking pliers to firmly grip the nail’s shank, then leverage a pry bar to extract it with ease.
Garage Floor Dam
Garage floors often collect water—whether from spring flooding, melting snow off your car, or other sources. To keep your equipment and gear dry, try creating a barrier using expanding foam. It adheres well, repels water, and is durable enough to withstand foot and vehicle traffic. Once the weather warms up, you can easily scrape it away. You’ll be amazed by these 12 creative ways to use spray foam.
Hot-Glue Bumpers
Have a flowerpot or another item with a coarse base that you want to place on a finished surface? Instead of buying silicone bumpers, try this DIY trick with hot glue. Simply apply small blobs to the bottom of the item, let them cool briefly, and then press the item down while the glue is still pliable. Just like that, you’ve got your own custom-made, soft plastic bumpers.
Flip-Down Recipe Holder
For an easy way to keep recipes or notes in view while you cook, attach a clothespin to the underside of an upper kitchen cabinet. Just screw it in place so you can flip it down to hold papers and flip it back up when not in use. Trimming a small section off one leg of the clothespin—whether it’s wood or plastic—makes it easier to secure with a screw.
Gentle-Grip Pliers
Here’s a classic tip with a clever upgrade: slip short sections of garden hose or similar tubing over the jaws of slip-joint pliers to prevent scratching delicate or plated surfaces. The twist? Cut the pieces just right so you can slide them up the handles when not in use, keeping them close by for whenever you need a gentler grip.