Tips, Tips and More Tips from October 2011

Use the smallest box you can to pack a breakable antique for shipping. The box should be large enough to hold a layer of peanuts or other padding on the bottom and sides. Wrap the piece in bubble wrap. Be sure it is packed tightly in the box. For extra safety, pack this box in a larger box with more padding. Seal with tape. Check the seams and corners to be sure they will not break. Mark the box “Fragile” and “This side up.” If it is very valuable, buy insurance from the shipper.

How to clean a speckled enameled pan covered with baked-on grease: Buy a can of spray-on oven cleaner at the grocery or hardware store and follow the directions. Don’t scrub the pan with a metal scouring pad that will scratch the surface. Use a nylon net pad or bristle brush.

If you have an old chair that wobbles, try this: Save a wine-bottle cork. Cut across the cork to make a disc. Put it under the short leg that causes the wobble. It may take several tries to get the cork disc just the right size.

Apply cosmetics, hairspray, and perfume before you put on your jewelry.