Tips, Tips, and More Tips from October 2005

If you live near a body of water, be sure to keep silica gel near your stored coins and other metals. The gel absorbs excess moisture. Check once or twice a year to be sure the silica gel does not need to be replaced.

If you buy an old chest with many drawers of the same size, check to see if the drawers slide freely. The drawers may look the same, but they may be in the wrong order. Try other positions using clues like matching veneer, numbers, or scratch marks.

It can be hard to thread a needle, especially with the old pure cotton thread that should be used for repairing old fabric. Put hairspray on the end of the thread to stiffen it. Or use a wire needle threader.