Thread: Engineer This! Board: Oblivion / Ship of Fools.


To visit this thread, use this URL:
http://forum.ship-of-fools.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=70;t=026162

Posted by Anna B (# 1439) on :
 
Living, as I do, with two mad scientists, one gradually learns to see the world as a vast playground, most of which can be improved upon through Lego constructions.

The rules of this game are as follows. One person names a physical object. Other players must list uses for that object---the more removed from its original purpose, the better. The person who comes up with the tenth way of using the object gets to name a new object, and play begins again.

Here we go!

a paper clip

[ 13. February 2013, 04:36: Message buggered about with by: Ariston ]
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
1. Christmas ornament hanger


(eta: numbering would help)

[ 28. September 2012, 16:42: Message edited by: Mamacita ]
 
Posted by Sioni Sais (# 5713) on :
 
2. Slot cleaner.

(eta: yes, it would)

[ 28. September 2012, 16:44: Message edited by: Sioni Sais ]
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
3. Disk ejector.
 
Posted by Hedgehog (# 14125) on :
 
4. Ammo for rubber-band slingshot

ETA: number change

[ 28. September 2012, 16:45: Message edited by: Hedgehog ]
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
5. punkish earrings
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
6. Demonstration object for retention of structural integrity despite high strains and substantial yielding; also useful to demonstrate low-cycle metal fatigue principles.

Why, yes, I am an engineer, why do you ask? [Biased]
 
Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
7. Stringing lots of them together to make a necklace.
 
Posted by Garasu (# 17152) on :
 
8. Fish-hook
 
Posted by Starbug (# 15917) on :
 
9. Implement for removing dirt from under fingernails.
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
9. Barrette (Hair clip)
 
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on :
 
10. tiny spectacle frames

A pen
 
Posted by mousethief (# 953) on :
 
1. device to rewind a cassette tape with
 
Posted by Hedgehog (# 14125) on :
 
2. Ammo for a rubber-band slingshot. [Big Grin]
 
Posted by Organ Builder (# 12478) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by mousethief:
1. device to rewind a cassette tape with

OK, now I've got something else to post on the Heaven thread about knowing when you are middle-aged...

3. Pea-shooter (some disassembly required).

ETA 2 becomes 3...

[ 28. September 2012, 19:57: Message edited by: Organ Builder ]
 
Posted by Jonah the Whale (# 1244) on :
 
4. Ear wax remover.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
5. Insulated probe for shorting out high voltage capacitors. (And it worked, too.)
 
Posted by churchgeek (# 5557) on :
 
6. Cleaning window tracks
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
7. Back of the classroom fencing match. (Requires two)
 
Posted by Arvan (# 13608) on :
 
8. Securing a hair style
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
9. Implement for emergency tracheotomy (according to cheap TV melodramas)
 
Posted by piglet (# 11803) on :
 
10. Poking the gunky bits out of pencil-sharpeners (if you haven't got a deconstructed paper-clip)

Tweezers
 
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on :
 
1. Time efficient nostril-clearing device
 
Posted by Bean Sidhe (# 11823) on :
 
2. Killing flies (takes practice)
 
Posted by 3rdFooter (# 9751) on :
 
3. Tuning fork of unknown pitch and doubtful timbre
 
Posted by Schroedinger's cat (# 64) on :
 
4. Simulating vampire bites in the neck.
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
5. Clearing blocked sink plunger plugs (ugh)
 
Posted by churchgeek (# 5557) on :
 
6. Poking airholes in a cardboard box two at a time (twice the speed!)
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
7. lobster pick
 
Posted by piglet (# 11803) on :
 
8. Unjamming a paper shredder (SWITCH IT OFF FIRST!).
 
Posted by Hedgehog (# 14125) on :
 
9. Really bulky ammo for a rubber-band slingshot. Use extra rubber bands to get decent lift.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
10. Toothpick


next: an apple
 
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on :
 
1. Organic, biodegradable pin cushion
 
Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
2. Cricket ball. (Could get messy though)
 
Posted by pjl (# 16929) on :
 
3
Keeping a baccy pouch moist
 
Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :
 
4 Preceded by Washington, it is the name of my favourite mixed drink.
 
Posted by LeRoc (# 3216) on :
 
5. Put it on your son's head for target practice.


(Disclaimer: this is a joke. Don't try this!)
 
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on :
 
6. Representation of the moon, through its phases.

mmmm, tasty representation
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
7 In case Hedgehog doesn't get back, REALLY bulky ammo for a rubber band slingshot...

(link is to show they do exist...)
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
8. Emergency replacement balls for croquet.
 
Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
9. Baubles on a Christmas tree
 
Posted by Sioni Sais (# 5713) on :
 
10. Alternative ammunition for a Potato cannon.

Next: Screwdriver

[ 01. October 2012, 16:58: Message edited by: Sioni Sais ]
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
1. CRT discharge tool (along with a jumper wire with alligator clips).
 
Posted by Organ Builder (# 12478) on :
 
2. Paint Can opener.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
3. release mechanism for a trebuchet


Meanwhile,
quote:
Originally posted by TomOfTarsus:
REALLY bulky ammo for a rubber band slingshot...


A bicycle inner tube works better than rubber bands for launching apples...
 
Posted by Sioni Sais (# 5713) on :
 
<tangent>

We're a violent lot:
- slingshots
- fencing
- more slingshots
- a potato cannon
- a trebuchet
- and a target to be place on one's sons head

Heaven help any unwelcome boarders

</tangent>
 
Posted by Hedgehog (# 14125) on :
 
4. Really really really bulky ammo for...no, wait. That's never going to work, is it? How about:

4. Ice pick to chip off ice to put into a mixed drink ironically also called a screwdriver.
 
Posted by Schroedinger's cat (# 64) on :
 
5. Cleaning earwax from your ears.
 
Posted by pjl (# 16929) on :
 
6
piercing air holes in jam jar lids
 
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on :
 
7. Use as a jemmy to free painted up windows.
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
(Continuing with screwdriver)

8. Peanut butter spreader

[ 01. October 2012, 20:52: Message edited by: Mamacita ]
 
Posted by MarsmanTJ (# 8689) on :
 
9. Smartboard pen (I actually used to use a fairly tiny cross-point screwdriver on a smartboard that was unreliable (that's most of them, IME) and I got pin-point accuracy, something that can never be said for the pens provided... Shame you can't do so with the even less reliable Prometheans...)
 
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on :
 
10, I use magnetised screwdriver to get paperclips out of small spaces.

----------

Thimble
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
1. Shot glass for making very weak drinks.
 
Posted by Pearl B4 Swine (# 11451) on :
 
1. For when a regular shot-glass is just too much.
 
Posted by Pearl B4 Swine (# 11451) on :
 
Great minds [Biased]
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
[Cool]
 
Posted by Lamb Chopped (# 5528) on :
 
Nest for a displaced hummingbird.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
3. Anode/plate cap connector for a high power vacuum valve/tube.
 
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on :
 
4. A helmet for Don Quixote in the all mouse version of Man from La Mancha.
 
Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
5. A very small hat
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
6. Little toe protector when wearing open toed sandals on a pebbly surface.
 
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on :
 
7. A replacement for that missing chessman.
 
Posted by Sioni Sais (# 5713) on :
 
8. A bucket to make sandcastles for your Zen desk sandbox.
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
9. Gumdrop mold (form)
 
Posted by Hedgehog (# 14125) on :
 
10. Ammo for a rubber-band slingshot. Of course.

For the next item...oh, what the heck: Rubber band
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
1. Slingshot. [Biased]
 
Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
2. Cheap bracelet
 
Posted by Sioni Sais (# 5713) on :
 
3. A flexible rock group (cf Bootsy Collins).
 
Posted by Sioni Sais (# 5713) on :
 
4. Lightweight clamp.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
5. Put a couple around your tracking stick to mark the length of a step when tracking a lost person through the bush.
 
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on :
 
6. Belt for trousers in the all-mouse version of Man from La Mancha.
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
7. Wind round a bodhran beater for grip.
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
8. Hypervelocity arse stinger
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
9. Chewing gum substitute
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
10. Strings of a guitar-like instrument.

Coat hanger
 
Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
1. Replacement car aerial (Yes I know, I'm showing my age)
 
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on :
 
2. Framework for the blades of a windmill for the all mouse version of the Man of La Mancha.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
3. Substructure for angel wings for nativity play costume.
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
4. Bendy probe for clearing the blocked loo after you've tipped too much cat litter down it.
 
Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
5. Implement for hooking hard to reach objects
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
6. Tool for roasting marshmallows
 
Posted by Morlader (# 16040) on :
 
7. Material for sculptures (needs 3000)

[ 03. October 2012, 13:27: Message edited by: Morlader ]
 
Posted by Pearl B4 Swine (# 11451) on :
 
8. repair kit for exhaust system dragging on the road
 
Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
9. Advent Wreath like the ones they used to make on Blue Peter
 
Posted by Sioni Sais (# 5713) on :
 
10. Frame for an 'Action Man' size ultralight.

Next: A pack of plastic straws.
 
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on :
 
1. Lances for the all mouse version of Man of La Mancha.
 
Posted by fletcher christian (# 13919) on :
 
11. Car jacking implement
 
Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
111. A very narrow pea shooter. (Substitute mustard seeds for peas)
 
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on :
 
1V. Blow football.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
V. Geodesic dome!
 
Posted by Morlader (# 16040) on :
 
VI. Central heating for mice. [Razz] Lb.
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
VII. A more liberal way for a camel to get into heaven.

(Try my new, high speed metaphor blender today! Only 3 easy paymenst of $19.95 each... but wait! etc....)
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
VIII Colour code them for a game of Spillikins (pick-up-sticks)

[ 04. October 2012, 18:40: Message edited by: jacobsen ]
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
IX. Use them to deliver airflow to a small device in an electronic circuit to see how it reacts to changes in temperature.
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
X. Pipette for chemistry class

Next: Roll of Scotch (cello-) tape
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
1.) Spacer for a short table leg.
 
Posted by Sioni Sais (# 5713) on :
 
2. Wheel for small unicycle (you might want some of those drinking straws for spokes).
 
Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
3. Cheap bracelet
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
4. Sticky device for removing fluff, cat hairs, etc from fabric.
 
Posted by Morlader (# 16040) on :
 
Continuing Scotch / Sello tape.

5. Electrical insulation

[ 05. October 2012, 07:32: Message edited by: Morlader ]
 
Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
6. Halo
 
Posted by pjl (# 16929) on :
 
7
Painful but cheap device for removing pubic hair
 
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on :
 
8. For gagging noisy children (don't try this at home*)

.

* or anywhere.
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
9. Shower curtain loops
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
10. Windows in a cheap dollhouse (or regular house, for that matter).

Soda can
 
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on :
 
1. Windmill base for the all mouse production of the Man of La Mancha.
 
Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
2. Emergency repair for a damaged exhaust pipe
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
3. Tower for mouse production of Rapunzel.
 
Posted by Bean Sidhe (# 11823) on :
 
4. A safe house for nano spies.
 
Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
5. A percussion instrument
 
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on :
 
6. Cut in half, bury in garden, pour beer into can. What you have is a slug trap.
 
Posted by HenryT (# 3722) on :
 
7. Collect several hundred, cut out the ends, make solar collectors.

(I know someone who's serious about doing this!)
 
Posted by Sioni Sais (# 5713) on :
 
8. Collect several hundred more, secure them to each other to make a post-modernist water feature.
 
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on :
 
9. Use ring pulls for earrings.
 
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on :
 
10. A mold to make suppositories for politicians.

Door Wedge
 
Posted by HenryT (# 3722) on :
 
1. wedge the corner of the video projector in the meeting room so the picture is finally aligned correctly.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
2. Keep a mattress from sliding.
 
Posted by Bean Sidhe (# 11823) on :
 
3. Paint it yellow and disappoint a mouse.
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
4. mouse skateboard park
 
Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :
 
5. Something to trip on when you are in a hurry to leave!
 
Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
6. Ammo for a rubber-band slingshot
 
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on :
 
7. To prevent a table from wobbling.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
8. Emergency arch supports for your shoes.
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
9. Aiming adjuster for a potato cannon.

[ 10. October 2012, 13:41: Message edited by: jbohn ]
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
10. Felling wedge (I have to cut down some trees...)

marble(s)
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
1. Substitute for banana peel if you're trying to engineer a pratfall.
 
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on :
 
2. The Palantiri for the all mouse version of The Lord of the Rings

[ 10. October 2012, 18:57: Message edited by: lilBuddha ]
 
Posted by cheesymarzipan (# 9442) on :
 
3. Ball bearings for giants
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
4. Ammo for a rubber-band catapult.

[ 10. October 2012, 19:06: Message edited by: jbohn ]
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
5. Bottle stoppers.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
6. Decorations, placed in a jar and set near a window to catch the light.
 
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on :
 
7. Bowling balls for the all mouse version of The Big Lebowski
 
Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
8. False eyes
 
Posted by Sioni Sais (# 5713) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by lilBuddha:
7. Bowling balls for the all mouse version of The Big Lebowski

Oh yeah!

9. Bowling balls for live action remake of Bowling Alley Cat.
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
10. Place in bottom of plant pot to help drainage.

Next up:
Used CDs
 
Posted by Jengie Jon (# 273) on :
 
1. shiny mobiles to entertain senior citizens suffering from dementia.
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
2. Drinks coasters.
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
3. Reflectors to signal SOS in morse code when you're stranded in the outback....

Waddaya mean why take a portable CD player. It's retro.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
4. Jewelry. (Especially if broken into pieces.)
 
Posted by Morlader (# 16040) on :
 
5. Weapon
(so classified by airport security and therefore banned from cabin baggage)
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
Definitely a weapon. See Hellraiser 3
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
6. Stage and backdrop parts for an all-mouse version of Saturday Night Fever.
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
7. Substitute disks for skeet shooting. Pull!
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
8) Wheel for homemade pizza cutter.
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
9. full cover wall decoration for a really naff edition of Changing Rooms*


*Reality TV show where a team go in to completely revamp a room in 48 hours. Results usually varying from the cheap and nasty to grisly.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
10. Appetizer plates--preferably with doilies on top, in case the surface is toxic.


Altoids Tin

(Lots of ideas online!)
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
1. Coffin for a mouse production of Vampire Chronicles
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
Casing for the electronics in a very small Geiger counter.
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
3. container for chocolate sardines.

(I hate to throw altoids tins away, and will be watching this section of the thread with great interest....)
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
4. Freezer container for deceased mouse pending cremation.
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
5. Gift box for those plastic gift debit cards. No wrapping required!
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
6. RFID shielded wallet for those credit cards with the built-in chips!

Edited due to simulpost, and durn near a simul-idea!

[ 16. October 2012, 20:27: Message edited by: TomOfTarsus ]
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
7. Container for a mini-shrine.
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
8. Word tin for infant school child learning to read.
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
9. Home for tiny, invisible, imaginary friend.
 
Posted by cheesymarzipan (# 9442) on :
 
10. Box to keep dice in when playing games with geeks.

a penny (or some pennies)
 
Posted by agrgurich (# 5724) on :
 
1. A bingo token
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
2) Scraping gunk off of glass (windshields / windscreens). Copper is softer than glass, so won't scratch it. Also handy for scraping burned remnants from a saucepan (though the last time I did that I used a 5 forint coin instead.)

[ 17. October 2012, 18:13: Message edited by: Carex ]
 
Posted by Sioni Sais (# 5713) on :
 
3. A cheap, handy base for small model soldiers.
 
Posted by Bean Sidhe (# 11823) on :
 
4. A discus for the Hamster Olympics.
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
5. Emergency fix for a burned-out fuse.

(NOT recommended. Don't try this at home, etc.)
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
6. Tokens for i-ching.
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
7. Tiddlywinks
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
8. to lever open the base of your piggy bank when you urgently need rather more than a penny
 
Posted by Spike (# 36) on :
 
9. Ammo for rubber-band slingshot
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
10. For skipping across a puddle


Bubble wrap!
 
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on :
 
1. Airbags for the stunt mice in an all mouse version of The Wild Bunch
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
2. Anger release for mice to stamp on - gets rid of tension, makes a noise, and, except of the bubble wrap itself,is not destructive.

[ 20. October 2012, 07:01: Message edited by: jacobsen ]
 
Posted by agrgurich (# 5724) on :
 
3. gunfire siund effects producer
 
Posted by Sioni Sais (# 5713) on :
 
4. Cobblestones in a street for your dolls house (paint them grey).
 
Posted by Bean Sidhe (# 11823) on :
 
5. Precautionary soft landing for a stunt gerbil.

[ 20. October 2012, 22:59: Message edited by: Bean Sidhe ]
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
6. Protective wrapping for the infamous fourth-grade science class' Egg Drop experiment.
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
7. Emergency air pockets for deep sea mouse divers.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
8) Wear under one's clothes to adjust one's figure, or when one may be subject to corporal punishment.
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
9. Instant insulation for open air sleepers.
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
10. To keep in reserve for the days when you can't find your tinfoil hat.

Hairpin
 
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on :
 
1. Sword for the all mouse version of The Adventures of Cyrano De Bergerac.
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
2. Lockpick
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
3. Goth earring
 
Posted by cheesymarzipan (# 9442) on :
 
4. Elastic or wool threader when you don't have a bodkin
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
5. Cable needle (for knitting)
 
Posted by pjl (# 16929) on :
 
6
Cleaning dirt from finger nails
 
Posted by agrgurich (# 5724) on :
 
7. Bookmark
 
Posted by Wet Kipper (# 1654) on :
 
8. ear wax remover
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
9. De-stoner for cherries
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
9. Twist into an emergency engagement/wedding ring.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
Whoops, cross-posted. So...

10. Twist into an emergency engagement/wedding ring.


Sweatshirt
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
1. Emergency tournequet for an elephant
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
2. Restraint / reins for a young child.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
3) Knot off the sleeves and use it as a bag for collecting geological samples.
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
4. Pillow
 
Posted by agrgurich (# 5724) on :
 
5. Apron
 
Posted by cheesymarzipan (# 9442) on :
 
5. Hammock for squirrels
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
6. Emergency splint for when you break your ankle 2.5 miles from the trailhead. [True story.]

[ 28. October 2012, 20:04: Message edited by: Mamacita ]
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
7. Emergency mop for when you spill a large glass of wine (sob.)
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
8. Emergency insulation for an outdoor plant during a cold snap.

[ 29. October 2012, 05:47: Message edited by: Golden Key ]
 
Posted by claret10 (# 16341) on :
 
9) A dog bed
 
Posted by agrgurich (# 5724) on :
 
19. a bib

DENTAL FLOSS
 
Posted by claret10 (# 16341) on :
 
1) A tightrope for fairies
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
2) Thin rope for supporting a wire aerial/antenna for your television.

[ 29. October 2012, 18:48: Message edited by: Carex ]
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
3. Rigging lines for the all-mouse production of Mutiny on the Bounty.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
4. Emergency yarn when you're holed up in a storm, yarnless, and are itching to crochet. No hook? Do finger crochet!
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
5. Fishing line.
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
6. Emergency thread for sewing repairs. Use the hairpin as an emergency needle cum crochet hook.
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
7. to make a washing line for dolls' clothes.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
8. Emergency surgical thread.
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
9. Tournequet for mouse emergencies
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
10. Slicing a cake.


Next: cardboard tubes from TP and paper towel rolls

[ 31. October 2012, 23:45: Message edited by: Mamacita ]
 
Posted by claret10 (# 16341) on :
 
1) Dog chew
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
2) plugs for seedlings
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
3. Tubes for growing leeks so there's more of the white bit.
 
Posted by agrgurich (# 5724) on :
 
4. ear trumpet
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
5. Lightsaber for Jedi Halloween costume.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
6) Wind wire on it to make your own Tesla coil.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
7. Pirate telescope! Arrrgh.
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
8. Mouse Hobbit hole.
 
Posted by cheesymarzipan (# 9442) on :
 
9. Loud hailer/trumpet/imitation foghorn (general noisy instrument)

[ 02. November 2012, 21:00: Message edited by: cheesymarzipan ]
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
10) Pack it full of gunpowder to make fireworks.


Next: a spoon.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
1. Hung with other utensils to make a wind chime.

(I've seen these--really cool!)
 
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on :
 
2. alternative beaters for a hammer dulcimer. (Also seen and also cool.)
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
3. Trebuchet for mouse warfare.
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
4. Alternative trowel for potting plants.
 
Posted by cheesymarzipan (# 9442) on :
 
5. Secure transport device for eggs, as shown by many school sports days.
(In my school we had a potato race - obviously we couldn't be trusted with eggs)

[ 05. November 2012, 20:08: Message edited by: cheesymarzipan ]
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
6. Mounted on a block of wood it makes a functional telegraph key.
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
7. to put with your other spoons in your spoon collection, in the hope of getting a special mention in Private Eye.
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
8. Percussion instrument

[ 05. November 2012, 22:46: Message edited by: Mamacita ]
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
9. Arial dish for mouse TV.
 
Posted by cheesymarzipan (# 9442) on :
 
10. An ineffective weapon/torture device
(eg: I'll scoop out your eyes with a spoon)

Next: a mug
 
Posted by LeRoc (# 3216) on :
 
1. An effective weapon/torture device (just watch Chronicles of Riddick)
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
2. Pen holder.
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
3. Toothbrush holder
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
4. Critical life support device for engineers!
 
Posted by Morlader (# 16040) on :
 
5. Advertising hoarding - see Sip of Fools.
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
6. Plant pot
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
7. Anemometer cup (3 needed)
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
8) Soaking carburetor parts in solvent.
 
Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :
 
9) pen and pencil and scissors storage
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
10. Indoor Spider Catcher


Next: A hollowed out pumpkin

[ 07. November 2012, 18:19: Message edited by: ArachnidinElmet ]
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
1. Brewing vessel for a small batch of Pumpkin Ale.
 
Posted by agrgurich (# 5724) on :
 
1. a punchbowl
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
3. Carriage for mouse production of Cinderella
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
4. Hiding place for a geocache. Or for pirate treasure if you happen to have some.
 
Posted by agrgurich (# 5724) on :
 
5. lampshade
 
Posted by Hedgehog (# 14125) on :
 
6. Biodegradable planter.
 
Posted by claret10 (# 16341) on :
 
7. A mask
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
8. Pumpkin mulch for the garden. Colourful and nourishing.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
9. Prop for use in a production of "The Legend Of Sleepy Hollow".
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
10. A pumpkin shell? A place to keep my wife "very well". [Razz]

Worn out car tire (tyre)
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
1. Properly cut, a planter .

[ 14. November 2012, 20:31: Message edited by: jbohn ]
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
2. a child's swing
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
3. When splitting firewood by hand, keeps the pieces from flying everywhere.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
4. Soles of sandals.
 
Posted by agrgurich (# 5724) on :
 
2. bad life preserver
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
6. Filling for a road bed, mixed with other materials.

(Doesn't work well--the tires flex and buckle in hot weather, and IIRC sometimes catch on fire.)
 
Posted by agrgurich (# 5724) on :
 
7. picture frame
 
Posted by cheesymarzipan (# 9442) on :
 
2. Tied to a tree, it's a swing!
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
10. A scuff protector for a boat or canoe.

uses of a coat hanger
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
1. Wire hoop for crocheting/knitting in the round.
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
2. Straightened out it's a great de-clogger when too much cat litter has blocked the loo.
 
Posted by LeRoc (# 3216) on :
 
3. Opening a car.
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
4. Radio/TV antenna
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
5.Dowsing
 
Posted by Sioni Sais (# 5713) on :
 
6. Operating rods for points and accessories on a model railway (if you haven't any bicycle spokes, which are already straight and therefore perfect).

[edit: numbering]

[ 26. November 2012, 19:39: Message edited by: Sioni Sais ]
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
7. Framework for a wizard's hat. (Thinking of Unseen University's Ridcully et al, rather than Hogwart's. Different accoutrements.)
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
8. Essential prop for a staging of "Mommie Dearest."
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
9. Improvised handles to lift the Thanksgiving turkey out of the roasting pan and onto the cutting board.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
10. Tongs for cooking over a campfire, per a long-ago manual.


Leftover Play-Doh/play-clay
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
1. Plug a leak in a central heating radiator.
 
Posted by agrgurich (# 5724) on :
 
3. comic strip copier
 
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on :
 
3. Squeeze it between the fingers of the left hand, good exercise for a guitarist or violinist.
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
4. to seal a badly fitting window
 
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on :
 
5. Slingshot ammo,
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
6. Make fake cookies for an April Fool's joke
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
7. Dental imprint for home made false teeth.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
8. Taking an imprint of a key to make a duplicate.
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
9.Stopping foot fouls in longjumping.
 
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on :
 
10, Winning an oscar.

Kebab skewers.
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
1. Lance for mouse jousting tournament
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
2. Teepee poles for the all-mouse production of Little Big Man.
 
Posted by Ariston (# 10894) on :
 
3. Swords for all-muskrat production of Man of La Mancha.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
4. Blunted and filigreed, a coronet!
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
5. To keep receipts together and tidy.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
6. Stick it in the ground and connect a wire to it to provide an earth connection to eliminate arcing due to static build-up on your aerial wire. (Yes, it worked.)
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
7. ear piercing for a luddite jeweller.

(preferably sharpened metal ones over dull wooden ones).
 
Posted by balaam (# 4543) on :
 
8. Replacements for lost tent pegs.
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
9. Implement for extracting hair from a plughole.
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
10. a game of pick up sticks

A traffic cone
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
1. Megaphone for sandlot football games.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
2. Holder for gigantic ice cream sundae. (Eat the cone at your own risk!!)
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
3. Add a model head, and you can multiply the number of robed trebles in your church choir at a stroke. Sadly, however, they won't sing, but it will look good on the Parish Photo.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
4. At one time we had a photograph here on the Ship of one being pressed into service as a mitre.
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
No. 3 you use cones during August to make it look like the choir are not really on holiday (thanks to RoN of cartoon fame for this idea).

No. 4 you have Rev. Gerald Ambulance to blame, as I recall.

5. Party Hats
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
6. (blushes)Madonna could've put'em to good use once...

(ducks)
 
Posted by Bean Sidhe (# 11823) on :
 
7. Paint one black, put it on your head, grab a broomstick and a cat. You can fly!

[ 13. December 2012, 01:27: Message edited by: Bean Sidhe ]
 
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on :
 
8. The Lonely Mountain in the All-mouse version of The Hobbit.
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
9. Mould for giant conical candle
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
10. Funnel for pouring concrete.


Next, uses for an empty tin can.
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
1. tied to a car to announce 'just wed'
 
Posted by cheesymarzipan (# 9442) on :
 
2. a drum
 
Posted by Sioni Sais (# 5713) on :
 
3. Cut ends off (empty tin can) for cheap sheet metal.

[ 14. December 2012, 21:26: Message edited by: Sioni Sais ]
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
4. Flattened, a roof shingle.
 
Posted by claret10 (# 16341) on :
 
5. For drinking out of.
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
6. to put on a 'Wizard of Oz' show
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
7. Properly joined to one another, we used to make "can cannons" out of them. The Safety Police would probably have a fit today, so you're on your own for directions. But we could send a tennis ball a good distance with lighter fluid as a propellant. Good times!
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
8. As a step up from the old tin can telephone we can now use them to build antennas for wireless networks.
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
9.recycle it to make a new tin can and start all over again.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
10. As part of a tin can hat--much sturdier than one of those tin *foil* jobs! [Biased]


Old backpack/daypack/rucksack
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
1. Bed for cats. They love to snuggle inside something. Hang it on a radiator and they'll like it even more. Put something soft inside it, or even newspaper that they can scratch.
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
2. Add soil and potatoes for a very study growbag.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
3. Tent for dolls and/or action figures.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
4. Bird house.
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
5. A baby carrier (not it's not entirely zipped up, of course).
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
6. To store things up in the loft. (That's what I use mine for.)
 
Posted by agrgurich (# 5724) on :
 
6. Sandbags
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
7. Part of a bellows.
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
8. Well, it's like dis, ya see... cross me up, and you're gonna regret it! So my boys took care of da problem, ya know wat I mean? I said, "So how'd ya make sure he stayed down?" "Nuttin' to it, boss! We made him fill his backpack with rocks foist!"
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
9. Stuffed with old jumpers, a very convenient pillow.
 
Posted by Master Tubby Bear (# 9739) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by jacobsen:
1. Bed for cats. They love to snuggle inside something. Hang it on a radiator and they'll like it even more. Put something soft inside it, or even newspaper that they can scratch.

10. Toilet for cats. Specifically, my cat, when I was 21 and the rucksack was still very much in use. Cat had to go, in both senses of the word.


Tape cassette
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
1. To make easily wound-up literalist Christians nervous. [Snigger]
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
2. Ticker tape to throw in moments of great excitement. I've seen it festooned from trees.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
3. Wrap some of the tape around a coil of wire to increase the inductance.
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
4. Department of inducement to violence - wrap some very tightly round your enemy's throat, and pull.

[ 23. January 2013, 11:47: Message edited by: jacobsen ]
 
Posted by deano (# 12063) on :
 
5. A convenient, ready-furled tape to wind around sticks to keep the pigeons off the seedlings. Just pull to reel out some more.
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
6. Source of amusement, used to confound young nephews who've no idea what it is. [Biased]

Or, a doorstop.
 
Posted by Master Tubby Bear (# 9739) on :
 
7. Ice-breaker for nostalgic discussion.
 
Posted by TeaAddict (# 14946) on :
 
Convenient emergency shoe laces
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
9. Crochet "yarn", when you're out of yarn, and desperately need to crochet!
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
9. Crochet "yarn", when you're out of yarn, and desperately need to crochet!
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
10. Emergency fishing line. What else could you do with it on a desert island?

New topic


Old fashioned wooden clothes pegs

 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
1. An aid for eating smelly cheese.
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
2. Make a doll, craft activity for a rainy day.
 
Posted by Master Tubby Bear (# 9739) on :
 
3. Nipple clamps. I imagine.
 
Posted by deano (# 12063) on :
 
4. Trigger mechanism for an elastic band gun! Used to do that when we were kids.
 
Posted by jacobsen (# 14998) on :
 
5. Mouse tent peg.
 
Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
6. Use doilies and make an angel for the top of the tree.

[Smile]
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
7. Peg strawberry plant runners to make new strawberry plants.
 
Posted by Master Tubby Bear (# 9739) on :
 
8. Something to keep music on music stands on a windy day
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
9. Painted, and used to tag important mail.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
10. Horns to go on a funky winter hat. (E.g., the kind meant to suggest moose antlers, etc.)


Old dishpan.
 
Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
(I had to google 'dishpan' [Smile] )

1. A footbath, of course!
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
2, A pond for a single duck.
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
3. Container for used, washed milk-bottle tops (or other small items of your choice). When full, they can be decanted into an old plastic bag and given to charity. The dishpan is then ready to be used again for the next lot.
 
Posted by Pearl B4 Swine (# 11451) on :
 
4. Set on a pedestal, a birdbath.
 
Posted by Leorning Cniht (# 17564) on :
 
5. A sous vide cooker. (With the addition of an immersion heater for a coffee mug, solid state relay, temperature sensor and PID controller.)
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
Obviously a fellow reader of Make: [Biased]

6. Emergency canoe-bailer.
 
Posted by Leorning Cniht (# 17564) on :
 
Not sure this one really qualifies - it comes perilously close to the actual intended use of the object, but here we go:

7. Bathing a baby
 
Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by jacobsen:
10. Emergency fishing line. What else could you do with it on a desert island?


A disc?
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
8. A portable sandbox for sand play.


Another MAKE reader here! [Smile]
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
9. Pour it full of concrete, stick a bolt into it before it sets, and use it to anchor a weather station to the roof of a building without damaging the roof seal.
 
Posted by Leorning Cniht (# 17564) on :
 
10. A mould for forming the bricks of an igloo.

So let's see what you make of an antimacassar.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
1. Cap for women attending a church that requires at least minimal head covering. (E.g., like those little lace caps.)
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
2. Parachute for the all-mouse production of The Longest Day.
 
Posted by Baptist Trainfan (# 15128) on :
 
3. Clearly it should be used to repel all aggressive macassars that may impinge upon your personal space. Not that I'd recognise them if I saw them.

[ 25. February 2013, 16:10: Message edited by: Baptist Trainfan ]
 
Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
4. An apron for a doll.
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
5. Give Grandma fits. Wash the car with them!
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
6. A cloth doily for a teatray.

(crosspost, now no. 6)

[ 25. February 2013, 16:48: Message edited by: Chorister ]
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
7. Substitute for cheese cloth when straining cheese.
 
Posted by Pearl B4 Swine (# 11451) on :
 
8. weave a coat hanger through the edges & you have a fishing net.
 
Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
9. Use it to make a pocket on a skirt or apron (I've done this).
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
10. A hanky, although you might want to wash it before returning it to the chair.


Uses for a vinyl record?

[ 02. March 2013, 21:44: Message edited by: ArachnidinElmet ]
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
1) to keep a history of your vinyl, of course.
 
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on :
 
2. Saucer for a cappuccino.
 
Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
3. Frisby
 
Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
4. An excuse to reminisce to your children [Smile]
 
Posted by agrgurich (# 5724) on :
 
5. one earring
 
Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
6. A work of art.
 
Posted by Leorning Cniht (# 17564) on :
 
7. Heat it up and bend it, to make a fruitbowl.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
8. Skeet
 
Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
9. Add hands to make a clock.
 
Posted by Sioni Sais (# 5713) on :
 
10. A baseboard for a very small model railway (extra marks if you can make the rail follow the groove!).

Ten uses for the humble bucket
 
Posted by Leorning Cniht (# 17564) on :
 
1. Kick it.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
2. A drum.

(We have some street musicians here who do a great job with makeshift drums.)
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
3. Cut eye holes in it to make a helmet.

[ 08. March 2013, 14:05: Message edited by: ArachnidinElmet ]
 
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on :
 
4. Half a brassiere for Madonna.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
5. If you tie one end of a rope (preferably with a hard braid, about 2mm to 6mm diameter) to the handle, then flake the rope lazily into the bucket, you can tie a weight onto the other end and the rope will pay out cleanly when you throw the weight over a tree branch.

What does it say about my life that I keep several such buckets on hand, complete with ropes?
 
Posted by rolyn (# 16840) on :
 
6. Port-a-loo .
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
7. Seat for use whilst ice fishing, of course.
 
Posted by A.Pilgrim (# 15044) on :
 
8. A helmet for a snowman
 
Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
9. Temporary home for a fish.
 
Posted by rolyn (# 16840) on :
 
10. Essential part of luggage while holidaying in UK, Summer 2012.

Ten uses for a Knitting needle
 
Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
1. Axel for a model car.

[ 10. March 2013, 08:28: Message edited by: Heavenly Anarchist ]
 
Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
quote:
Originally posted by Heavenly Anarchist:
1. Axel for a model car.

I obviously couldn't spell this morning [Roll Eyes]
 
Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
2. Back scratcher [Smile]
 
Posted by roybart (# 17357) on :
 
3. Spearfishing for minnows.

[ 10. March 2013, 20:39: Message edited by: roybart ]
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
4. mouse pole vault.
 
Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
6. Houseplant stake.

I used them for my chilli plants [Smile]
 
Posted by Pearl B4 Swine (# 11451) on :
 
7. Conductor's baton
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
8. Lance for the all-hamster production of Man of La Mancha.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
9. We always kept one in the kitchen for turning the abelskiver (apple pancake balls).
 
Posted by jbohn (# 8753) on :
 
10. Emergency chopstick(s).

a mouse pad

[ 11. March 2013, 18:41: Message edited by: jbohn ]
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
1. Turn it upside down for a miniature yoga mat.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
2. We put one on the seat of our granddaughter's chair to keep her from slipping off.
 
Posted by rolyn (# 16840) on :
 
3. We put it under the cat's face just before he sicks up on the sofa.
 
Posted by Leorning Cniht (# 17564) on :
 
4. Where else would a self-respecting mouse hang out?

[ 12. March 2013, 22:44: Message edited by: Leorning Cniht ]
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
5. Kneeler for a devout Wee Free man (from the Disc World books). Of course, his brothers would probably turn it into a wrestling mat while he's praying!
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
6. Padding for a package.
 
Posted by Pearl B4 Swine (# 11451) on :
 
# 7 -Cut into 4 pieces = mug/bottle coasters

[ 22. March 2013, 13:35: Message edited by: Pearl B4 Swine ]
 
Posted by rolyn (# 16840) on :
 
8. Put it under your vest to keep the cold out.

[ 24. March 2013, 16:37: Message edited by: rolyn ]
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
9. I had an optical mouse with a reflective pad at work. I lost something under my desk and used the pad as a reflector to shine light in the back corners to find it.
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
10.Put under your mixing bowl if whisking to stop it slipping.

a 35mm film canister
 
Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
1. To put your moisturiser in for a trip abroad [Smile]
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
2. The black ones with grey caps are ideal for carrying 9V batteries to prevent the terminals from getting shorted.

[ 05. April 2013, 20:41: Message edited by: Carex ]
 
Posted by Leorning Cniht (# 17564) on :
 
Pot for pills.
 
Posted by Pearl B4 Swine (# 11451) on :
 
# 4 Perfect container for dog poo sample to take to the Vet.
 
Posted by Crazy Cat Lady (# 17616) on :
 
5. Fill with loose change and keep in the car for parking tickets
 
Posted by Smudgie (# 2716) on :
 
6 IN our household, receptacle to hold the items involved in a deal with the tooth fairy.
 
Posted by lilBuddha (# 14333) on :
 
Bass drum in a hamster percussion kit

quote:
Originally posted by Pearl B4 Swine:
# 4 Perfect container for dog poo sample to take to the Vet.

But how do you train your dog to aim so well?
 
Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
7. To keep vaseline for lips, so that a large pot can be bought instead of the expensive little lip ones [Smile]
 
Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :
 
8. To store a week's supply of tablets when on holiday.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
9. A few bits of hardware, beads, small stones, bells, etc. put in one and wrapped with a package of handkerchiefs makes a much more interesting Christmas present for someone who shakes packages beforehand to try to determine what is inside.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
10. Storage for a teeny, tiny emergency embroidery kit to keep in a bag or pocket. Fill with a small canvas or bit of cloth, thread, needles, and some sort of thread cutter. Maybe a folded embroidery pattern. Could be handy in a waiting room, etc.


Terra cotta pot
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
1. Bake an interesting shaped loaf of bread.
 
Posted by Heavenly Anarchist (# 13313) on :
 
2. Use as a melt pot in glass fusing
 
Posted by agrgurich (# 5724) on :
 
3. Chamber Pot
 
Posted by rolyn (# 16840) on :
 
4. A bird-bath

< Apologies to my dear daughter >

[ 13. April 2013, 20:04: Message edited by: rolyn ]
 
Posted by Leorning Cniht (# 17564) on :
 
5. Al fresco pissoir

[ 15. April 2013, 03:39: Message edited by: Leorning Cniht ]
 
Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
6. Paintbrush store.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
7. Turn a large one upside down and use it as a stool. Or two with a board across for a bench.
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
8. A fez
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
9. Fill with hot coals and a lid to keep your bed warm.
 
Posted by Hedgehog (# 14125) on :
 
10. A mouse swimming pool. Obviously.

Next up, a pocket watch.
 
Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
1. As a weight for a pendulum.
 
Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :
 
2. A tool for hypnotism
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
3. Use as a compass

[ 16. April 2013, 18:21: Message edited by: ArachnidinElmet ]
 
Posted by agrgurich (# 5724) on :
 
4. A Paper Weight!
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
5. Use two for bolas or perhaps even worse, a pair of Clackers. (I had a pair of clackers when I was a kid. Great way to drive parents crazy. Why did they buy us this stuff?)
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
6. Part of your costume when you dress up as a White Rabbit, shouting 'I'm late, I'm late!'
 
Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
7. Replace the mechanism and make a powder compact.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
8. Accessory for a Steampunk event!
[Cool]
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
9. Remove the works and make a prosthetic shell for a homeless clam.
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
10. Take to pieces and make some watch art.


Old computer keyboard
 
Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
1. Take out the keys and use them in an arty collage.
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
2. Replace the lost tiles in an old game of Scrabble.
 
Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
3. Push drawing pins into the back to make groovy thumbtacks.
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
4. Put clips in the back to make cufflinks spelling out your friends' initials. That's your Christmas list sorted.
 
Posted by L'organist (# 17338) on :
 
5. Paperweight when wrapping large and unwieldy gift.

(It was a floor cushion...)
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
6. Shim to hold the back of the washing machine up off the floor while you are trying to fish out the house key from underneath. When you get it (or you give up) you can tip the washing machine up just a bit and pull the keyboard out by its cord. The only key likely to be functional afterwards is the house key.
 
Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
7. Make a bench [Cool]
 
Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
8. Or a chair!! [Cool] [Cool]
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
9. A bat to knock your monitor off your desk. [Big Grin]

You guys have much better ideas though...

True story: About 20 years ago, we bought some Tandy 486 computers. My keyboard just got bad enough to quit using this year; my co-worker next to me is still using hers.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
10. Smooth side up and propped on something, a slide for a small animal.


Wooden wine crate
 
Posted by L'organist (# 17338) on :
 
1. Stack them on their sides in a hallway - voila! the perfect size of pigeonhole system for hats, gloves, scarves, etc.
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
2. Firewood

(tom ducks and runs away...)
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
Dagnamit Tom, you bet me to it.

3. Sizing and storing lobsters on a fishing boat.
 
Posted by L'organist (# 17338) on :
 
4. Coconut shy ball holder (true, it lasted a good 15 years to my certain knowledge)
 
Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
5. Put wheels on one to make a toy box.
 
Posted by L'organist (# 17338) on :
 
6. Organiser for small gardening tools - trowels, dibbers, etc, etc
 
Posted by Lyda*Rose (# 4544) on :
 
7. First student apartment bookshelves.
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
8. Picture frame for 3-D art.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
9. Stepstool to reach the shelf that is just out of reach.
 
Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :
 
9. Wine storage!
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
How radical of you, Sir Kevin! [Biased]

10. As a fundraising game for church fetes - mark each section with a different number and score points when you try to pot Ping-Pong balls. Highest score of the afternoon wins a prize.

Piece of tinfoil.
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
1. You can make a hat to keep out the voices. So I hear. [Paranoid]

[ 23. May 2013, 22:52: Message edited by: ArachnidinElmet ]
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
2. Shiny wrapping paper for a present.
 
Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :
 
3. Something to keep the pan of your broiler cleaner
 
Posted by Boogie (# 13538) on :
 
4. Make little people! [Big Grin]
 
Posted by Pearl B4 Swine (# 11451) on :
 
5 Scrunch some (little or much as required) around the base of a candle to prevent it wobbling
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
6. I used to make simulated aircraft wreckage for the Search and Rescue team to locate.
 
Posted by Mamacita (# 3659) on :
 
7. Tinsel for your Christmas Tree.
 
Posted by Pearl B4 Swine (# 11451) on :
 
"base", not bass. See #5
 
Posted by mark_in_manchester (# 15978) on :
 
8. DIY electromagnetic shielding for your purse/wallet, to prevent unwanted reading of your contactless credit/debit card.

(recently recommended on BBC Radio 4...)
 
Posted by Pooks (# 11425) on :
 
9. Use it to sharpen your scissors.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
10) Step on it to make a copy of your shoe print for the Search and Rescue team in case you get lost.


next up, a wooden pencil
 
Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :
 
1. Something for the kindergarteners to keep the teacher busy with.
 
Posted by Leorning Cniht (# 17564) on :
 
2. Flagpole for sandcastle.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
3) When I had to improvise a battery charger for my calculator in a logging camp in Alaska, it included the lead in a pencil with two clips to slide along it to adjust the output level.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
4. Emergency chopstick!

(As demonstrated on the old "Barney Miller" police sitcom.)
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
5. Create a tree rubbing.
 
Posted by The5thMary (# 12953) on :
 
6. A weapon! Seriously! I once used a pencil to defend myself from a very aggressive bum who was harassing me in downtown Seattle. I kept warning him and he kept ignoring me... I put it into his exposed arm. With force.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
7. Emergency knitting needle.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
8. Debugging electronic circuits.

My team leader came down to the lab one day and found me sitting in front of $100K of fancy test equipment running the tip of a pencil around the traces on a circuit board. "We need to add a part... here." We did, and the board started working properly. That was not a technique she had learned at university for some reason.

[ 02. July 2013, 19:36: Message edited by: Carex ]
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
9. Lubricating a stuck zip. Just rub the graphite up and down the teeth.
 
Posted by Golden Key (# 1468) on :
 
10. The stem of a pinwheel.


A wok that's scene better days.
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
Leave it on a bench on a nearby green - it'll be a wok in the park!

No, seriously,

1. Upside down on my head, my new chapeau.
 
Posted by Carex (# 9643) on :
 
2. Leave it under a dripping tap in the garden as a watering spot for birds and other animals.

My grandfather used to plow up Native American grinding rocks occasionally in his orchard - basically a rock about the size of a bowling ball with a hole worked in one side to use as a mortar for grinding acorns. These were placed under water taps around the farm, and my mother brought one with her for our garden.
 
Posted by TomOfTarsus (# 3053) on :
 
3. Polish it well. Use it to concentrate the sun's rays and place your solar cell at the focus.

Carex - very interesting! Wish I had one of those...
 
Posted by ArachnidinElmet (# 17346) on :
 
4. Panning (woking?) for gold.
 
Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :
 
5. A bad substitute for a frisbee.
 
Posted by L'organist (# 17338) on :
 
6. A coracle for a doll.
 
Posted by Smudgie (# 2716) on :
 
7 An irresistible bed for a cat


Eleven months is a long time for a little thread in the circus to keep going without a rest. Before someone calls in the RSPCT, I'm going to prepare a resting place for this one for the time being and give you all chance to hone your creative juices on engineering some new ideas for games we can play in the meantime.

Smudgie - Circus Host


That was number seven... we'll give it to number 10 [Smile] So come one... three more uses for an old wok.
 
Posted by Chorister (# 473) on :
 
8. a replacement satellite dish
 
Posted by Imaginary Friend (# 186) on :
 
9. An dance partner for when you have the irrepressible urge to wok around the clock.
 
Posted by Ariston (# 10894) on :
 
10. Hang it up by one handle from a tree, it becomes a redneck rifle target, complete with that nice little "ping" when you hit it! The ricochet should make things even more fun, right?

Okay, enough dubious ideas. Time to take this one out back and shoot it. Have more fun elsewhere.

Thread CLOSED
—Ariston, Circus Host
 
Posted by Smudgie (# 2716) on :
 
Thread opened and closed again.
Because I can.
[Big Grin]

THREAD CLOSED
SMUDGIE - CIRCUS HOST

 
Posted by Sir Kevin (# 3492) on :
 
Boomerangs - what are they good for>
 
Posted by Ariston (# 10894) on :
 
Not much, really.

And Smudgekins, close the gate already! Clown move, bro. Clown move.

Thread CLOSED...at least until IF decides to get in on the action.
—Ariston, The Host
 


© Ship of Fools 2016

Powered by Infopop Corporation
UBB.classicTM 6.5.0