Hints From Heloise

Dear Heloise: I’ve found a very effective and inexpensive way to close packages without buying commercial clips that close chips. I use spring-loaded clothespins! They’re strong, easy to use, work on most size bags and products and they’re reusable.

Clothespins are remarkably adaptable for a number of home and office uses. I use a clothespin to attach important notes to the house calendar, close sample packets of shampoo or other cosmetics and replace twist ties.

I find new uses for clothespins on a regular basis. - Isabel Burk, New City, N.Y.

You’re right, there are so many new uses for these old-fashioned cheap gadgets! Don’t you love it! Old tech is new tech. - Heloise

Dear Heloise: When my ironing-board cover starts to show worn spots, I have been able to prolong its use by applying iron-on patches cut in round shapes to avoid corners.

The cover takes on a psychedelic look as I keep adding patches. - Ann Price, Naples, Fla.

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