Dear Heloise: Here’s a helpful hint for those of us who love miniblinds but sometimes accidentally bend a few or even have a pet chew on the ends.

I always buy mine 2 to 3 inches longer (vertical length) than needed. If I need to replace a blind, I simply remove the blinds beginning at the bottom, up to the damaged blind. Then replace the damaged blind with one from the extras. This saves so much money and keeps the blinds looking nicer! It’s so easy to do too! - Shar Davis, Harrisburg, Pa.

Dear Heloise: For inexpensive booster seats for little visitors I cover old telephone books with vinyl-coated fabric. Just wrap books with the vinyl like a present and seal with clear packing tape. Spills can be wiped off. You can purchase a variety of vinyl designs at a fabric store to match your decor. - Heidi Trout, West Friendship, Md.