I use packing peanuts to refill my kids' beanbag chairs - I have also made a new beanbag chair, stuffing it with peanuts (directions for making beanbag cahirs are at about.com, I think in the sewing section). If you don't have any beanbag chairs, you could ask a daycare center if they would like them for beanbag chairs or craft projects. The bubble wrap is a non-issue at my house, since my kids actually FIGHT over who gets to pop it! ... View related article.
Peel the labels off and smash 'em flat - 8 or so. Using an awl, punch a hole in each one. Take a larger can - coffee can or large vegetable can - fill with ice and freeze. Then in the rim of this can, punch a hole for each smashed can - space your holes equidistant along the rim. Punch another hole in the center of the can bottom. Now spray all the cans with clear rustoleum to keep them from rusting. Thread fishing line through the holes in the large can and tie knots to hold them in place. Thread the other end through the hole in the smashed can - one can per string - and knot. Finally, thread a button onto another length of fishing line and knot. Pass this thread through the hole in the middle of the can bottom, and hang. Un-canny windchimes. My kids did these and painted the large can with geometric designs. Great for mother's/father's day.
You can also cover 6 cans (same size) with wallpaper or contact paper, stack them in a pyramid (3 on bottom, then 2, then 1 on top) and glue them in place - use as a desk organizer. Make one with larger cans for a mail sorter. Can stand on the bottoms, or on the side.
You can also make a carry-along organizer with three equal-size cans (coffee or large veggie work best) and a wooden handle - cans are screwed into handle. Basically, the handle is cut from plywood, and extends deep wnough so the cans can be screwed on, three to a side, with open ends up toward the handle for carrying. Looks sort of like the carriers they have for cleaning supplies. Directions for this are on makestuff.com, or family.com. GReat for gardening stuff.
Make luminaries - an oldie, but a goodie! Fill cans with water and freeze. Use a nail and hammer, or an awl, to make holes in the cans in a pattern that you like - initials, hearts, stars, hex signs, etc. If the ice starts to melt, stop and refreeze. When the design is finished, thaw and empty water. Place a small candle inside. Voila!
Also, make buddy burners and buddy burner ovens for camping - see www.justpeace.org/buddyburner.htm for directions. ... View related article.
As for fog INSIDE of windows, I have done this in my bathroom and it keeps the mirrors fog-free - wipe shaving cream on the mirror, and then wipe off - DO NOT RINSE. For some reason, the residue left keeps fog away. You have to repeat the applciaiton from time to time. ... View related article.
If they are not galvanized, you can push them (point down) into the soil around your hydrangeas, azaleas and rhodos. The rust will nourish them. ... View related article.
Cut and sew into squares, stuff with herbs from the garden or herbs/spices that are expired and are hiding in your pantry (you know you have some!) Use as a hot mat, or sachet in drawers/closets, depending upon the scent you use. ... View related article.
