Multi Mania

There have always been -- and probably always will be -- multi-tools or tool systems. What this usually means is that the tool has more than one purpose. In some cases, multiple purpose tools make good sense. When power is involved, using the same source (usually a motor) for different tools can be economical. Typically, different attachments connect to a common motor. The down side: there are often compromises in capabilities -- and then there's the time spent changing things over from one tool to another. Multi-tools can make sense, but be sure the tool will do what you have in mind. Easy Reading

Some tools, squares mostly, come with embossed graduations on their blades. At times it can be difficult to read these tools because the graduations can be hard to see. To make the tool easier to use try some reverse tracing. Use paint or magic marker to color the blade of the tool. Before the paint/ink gets a chance to dry, wipe it off. This will leave paint in the recessed graduation marks, making them more visible.

Phony Trouble

If the phone quits working, check out a few things before you go shopping for a new one. First unplug other phone-related equipment like answering machines, caller ID, etc. If it still doesn't work, take it to a jack that you know is working. If the phone still doesn't work you can track down the problem by the process of elimination.

Take a phone that does work to the jack where the phone that didn't work was plugged in; this will eliminate the jack as the problem. Next, replace the existing phone cord with one that you know works, then replace the hand set cord and so on. If you have swapped everything around and the phone still doesn't work it's time for a new phone.

- Stephen Corwin HHTips Cedar Chest Losing its Scent? To revive the scent, sand the inside with fine-grained sandpaper. When finished, vacuum up the shavings. The wonderful odor should return.

Like to Have Inexpensive Lip Gloss? Use petroleum jelly to give lips a glossy look and also to help get rid of dry chapped lips. A big jar will go a long way. Or, put some in a small mint tin to carry in your purse

A Word About Lead

Lead is an environmental hazard that must be taken into serious consideration when you're planning any home repair activities. Paints containing lead present the greatest hazard to the homeowner. Until 1978, when lead-based paint was banned, lead was a common ingredient in paint.

Lead is toxic when it's inhaled or ingested. Sanding and stripping painted surfaces and general demolition can put lead into the air where it puts people and pets at risk. It is a homeowner's responsibility to know about the risks that go along with the rewards of home repair. Fortunately, lead test kits are available at some home centers as well as from .

- Stephen Corwin

-- Anonymous, November 08, 2001