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For Many Bits Of Old Stuff, a Useful New Life
An old pillowcase can become a pull toy for dogs such as Willie the beagle, a breed that loves to chew. And animal shelters can use old towels.
(Photos By Stace Maude -- Associated Press)
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Make a safe out of an old hardcover textbook or outdated encyclopedia. "Don't Throw It Out" suggests opening the book to a spot at least one inch from the back. Prop the book open with a paperweight. Use a pencil and a straightedge to mark a rectangle in the middle of the page. Cut out the rectangle with a craft knife. Score the edges heavily, and you'll be able to cut through several pages at a time. Repeat until you're about to cut into the back cover. Place a piece of cardboard or a thick piece of scrap paper over the cover so that you don't cut into it.
· Old Pillowcase, New Toy
Fashion a toy for Fido from a discarded pillowcase, says "Don't Throw It Out." Roll it lengthwise and make three knots -- one in the middle and two at the ends.
· Old Newspaper, New Window Washer
Go through the paper recyclables before you wash the windows, because you can use old newspapers to clean glass surfaces. Scrunch up newsprint and dip it into a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and warm water. Wipe windows with the wet paper.
· Old Yarn, New Nest
Another tip from "Don't Throw It Out": Help birds build nests by giving them leftover yarn from a crafting project. Cut the yarn into 3-inch strips and put them in a netted bag, similar to the ones garlic or onions come in. Hang the bag in a tree.
· Old Mop, New Curtain Rod
The long handle of a broom or map makes a cheap curtain rod for a small window or doorway. Wrap the length of the pole with metallic contact paper. Drill a small hole at the ends of the pole to insert an L-hook, from which you can hang the curtain.
· Old Soap, New Moth Repellent
Dry leftover slivers from bath soap bars and place them in a large zip-top plastic bag. Use a hammer to smash the bars into small pieces, then close the bag. Poke several small holes in the bag with a pin and toss the bag into storage bins with clothes. The soap will repel moths and other insects and keep clothes smelling fresh.
