Hints From Heloise

Here’s how to utilize all the space in a suitcase and protect garments from wrinkles, leaks and spills:

Place each garment in a plastic dry-cleaning bag.

Fold skirts and slacks in half vertically. Button a few buttons on blouses and shirts and fold the sleeves in. Do the same with jackets and sweaters.

Beginning at the top of the garment, roll it and the plastic together tightly, forming a cylinder. Each garment should be completely covered with plastic.

Once rolled, place garments in the suitcase in neat, layered rows. - Heloise

Dear Heloise: My clever husband fixed my damaged counter top by hiding it with a “hot plate.” He glued some very decorative tiles over the damaged area and used “quarter round” trim around the square of tiles.

I never regretted the accident with the hot pot. It’s practical and attractive. - Lillian Humphrey, Mesa, Ariz.