The Museum of Useful Things

Saw this here. Go to the Best Made Company for beautiful, well...

Fri, 25 May 2012 12:07:08 -0400

Saw this here. Go to the Best Made Company for beautiful, well crafted tools. Read more below.

The Best Made Lensatic Cruiser Compass Handbook (Part 1)

The following is an excerpt from the handbook to The Best Made Lensatic Cruiser Compass.

The Best Made Cruiser is a style of compass termed a “Lensatic Compass” that is historically considered to be the most accurate and ideal for both layman and professional use. Among other exciting features your compass is equipped with a lensatic or prismatic sight, which will allow the user to read a bearing off the compass while simultaneously aligning the compass with their destination and or objective. The lensatic style is optimized for explorers, geologists, speleologists, archaeologists, ornithologists, the military, and most famously for foresters who “cruise” timberlands engaged in precision survey work. This compass is a tool that will enable you to determine your location in the field, direction to landmarks or destinations, estimate distances, and find points of interest (marked boundary lines, USGS markers, trail heads, buried treasure, etc.). Your compass is a delicate precision instrument and must be cared for and used accordingly.

The Best Made Cruiser consists of a metal housing and lid with a glass window and a sighting or lubbing line etched into it. The spherically ground glass prism is mounted in a robust hinged housing unit that is flipped 180° and moved up or down which allows the user to focus on bearings. You can sight your objective by simultaneously observing the dial through the observation slit and the lubbing line in the glass window. The dial, lubbing line, and destination will simultaneously appear in your field of vision when you hold the compass level, and with some practice you will soon be able to determine the direction of travel. The compass has an integrated spirit level and can be mounted on a tripod by means of the threaded fitting in the base which will help serve as theodolite for simple terrain surveys. As a lensatic compass it offers considerable advantages over lesser models whereby parallax errors are more likely to occur. Excellent damping of the dial system ensures rapid and precise reading to a fraction of a degree.

In the following days we will outline more specific techniques to using the Cruiser including how to take bearings, determining your position in the field, and understanding magnetic declination.

Purchase The Lensatic Cruiser Compass

There’s more where that came from. Saw this here. Some...

Thu, 24 May 2012 10:52:12 -0400

There’s more where that came from. Saw this here. Some available here.

You Can Take the Tool Out of the Shed.....

Wed, 23 May 2012 11:17:04 -0400

Some of our products come from less glamorous beginnings. You can take the tools out of the shed, but can you take the shed out of the tools? Why would you want to?

Test Tube Pencil Holders, used in labs to hold tubes in an organized fashion, become a beautiful pen receptacle in your office. The Industrial Tube Wringer, intended for use in on site jobs to squeeze caulk or sealant, is a lovely gadget to have in your home. The Galvanized Feed Scoop, lifted from farms and barns, is a helping hand in the garden or dog feeding department. The Aluminum Snap Pack, used by traveling workmen and couriers the world over, is a handy place to keep notes, bills, checks etcetera.

TEST TUBE PENCIL HOLDER: Though usually found in labs, we find this brushed aluminum Test Tube Rack to be an ideal and attractive pencil caddy. The s-shaped rack resists rusting and is easily cleaned. Low form design prevents tipping. Etched row numbers allow for easy identification. When turned on its side it becomes a beautiful letter organizer. Beautifully holds General’s Test Scoring Pencils. Measures: 8 ¾” long x 4 ½” wide x 2 ½” high.

TUBE WRINGER: The Tube Wringer is incomparable in its ability to extract the last remnants of caulk, glue, paint or even toothpaste from its tube. It has, therefore, become an institution on construction sites and in homes around the world. Aluminum rollers and steel handle for construction and manufacturing applications. High grade and heavy duty materials make this a long lasting partner on the job. Made in the USA. Measures: 4 ½” wide x 4 ½” long x 1” deep.

GALVANIZED FEED SCOOP: Galvanized steel feed scoop from an Equestrian supply company, this tool comes in handy for many things from scooping dog food to potting soil. Rust resistant. Made in the USA. Measures: 6 ½” diameter x 8 ½” high.

ALUMINUM SNAP PACK: The Aluminum Snap Pack provides a protective place to keep your documents and forms when on the job or on the move. Made from 89% recycled aluminum and at least 60% post-consumer waste, the side opening design features a hinged writing plate for hard writing surface and prevents write-through on unused forms stored underneath aluminum strap. High tension serrated clip holds up to 1/2” paper securely. Made in the USA. Measures: 6” x 10”. Holds form size 5 2/3” x 9 1/2”.

How to fold a fitted sheet. Could come in handy. Saw this here.

Tue, 22 May 2012 10:41:26 -0400

How to fold a fitted sheet. Could come in handy. Saw this here.

Mallets and Hammers. Saw this here.

Mon, 21 May 2012 10:30:47 -0400

Mallets and Hammers. Saw this here.

Put a Twist on It

Fri, 18 May 2012 11:01:51 -0400

With a simple turn of the wrist, these small tools produce big results. The C-Clamp Tripod, with non-slip pads, will adjust to grip most surfaces. The chrome-plated, tempered steel Can Opener is a streamlined, pared down workhorse. The smooth crank action School House Pencil Sharpener is both quiet and capable; it has a stopping mechanism that won’t allow you to over sharpen your pencil so there is no waste. Simply twist the Magnetic Kitchen Timer to put it in motion.

C-CLAMP CAMERA TRIPOD: Made of die cast aluminum alloy, the C-Clamp Tripod is easily attached to various surfaces to give your camera a steady platform. It features non-marring neoprene pads for a secure grip, a non-slip swivel head for flexibility and is compatible with any camera that has a tripod socket. Weighs 2oz. Made in the USA. Measures: 3 ¾” long x 1 ½” wide.otion.

CAN OPENER: Made entirely in France, these can openers are of superior quality. Chrome-plated tempered steel body is rust resistant, and incredibly durable. Crimps edges of can as it opens to dull otherwise sharp lids. Small size makes it ideal for picnics, or overcrowded kitchen drawers. Opens cans of any size. Made in France. Measures: 2 ½” wide x 1 ¼” high.

SCHOOL HOUSE PENCIL SHARPENER: This sharpener is not only the quietest manual sharpener on the market, it also stops pencil waste as it won’t allow you to persist beyond the perfectly sharpened point once formed. Smooth crank action. The single burr sharpener gives an extra long pencil point. Metal handle, blade and body. Clear plastic receptacle drawer to collect shavings. Retractable clamps feed pencil to blade. C-Clamp included for counter top attachment. Perfect with Generals Pencils and Pencil Holder.

MAGNETIC KITCHEN TIMER: These sturdy retro style timers are manufactured by a Japanese company. Metal construction with non-shatter plastic face and magnetic back. Stick to fridge or stove for easy access. 55 minute timer. Measures: 2 ¾” diameter x 1 ¼” high.

Recycled Record Guitar Picks. Saw this here. See more here.

Thu, 17 May 2012 14:15:19 -0400

Recycled Record Guitar Picks. Saw this here. See more here.

A graphic depicting the 20th Century in color according to...

Mon, 14 May 2012 11:08:51 -0400

A graphic depicting the 20th Century in color according to Crayola crayons, by Adrian Walsh. Saw this here. See more here.

Wrench turned bottle opener. Saw this here.

Wed, 09 May 2012 10:32:37 -0400

Wrench turned bottle opener. Saw this here.

ioShutter Camera Remote: A cord/app combo that lets you control...

Tue, 08 May 2012 10:05:50 -0400

ioShutter Camera Remote: A cord/app combo that lets you control your camera’s shutter with your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch’s iOS. 6 modes: standard trigger, motion trigger, sound trigger, time-lapse, timer, and bulb.

Saw this here. See more here.

Cotton On

Mon, 07 May 2012 13:08:05 -0400

Cotton “caught on” well before the mid-19th century when it became the backbone of American industry. Today, it is the subject of our exhibit. Water weight cotton canvas makes this Decimal Equivalents Tote durable. The Crown Butcher’s Twine is 402 feet of strong, food safe twine. The Canvas and Leather Mason combines two strong materials to make one extraordinary bag. The Machinists Apron is a heavy duty coverall, good for the home cook or the industrial machinist.

DECIMAL EQUIVALENTS BAG: Made to our specifications, this Museum of Useful Things original tote is a new arrival. Featuring a cross-body strap and handy handles, this bag is big enough for all the essentials and features an interior pocket to keep small items close at hand. Printed with a vintage tool catalog decimal equivalents chart to carry your belongings in style. Made in the USA. Measures: 14” high x 18” wide.

CROWN BUTCHER’S TWINE: 134 yards (402 feet) of strong yet soft 100% cotton Butcher’s Twine. FDA approved food safe. Excellent choice for all purpose household use. Made in Queens, NY.

CANVAS & LEATHER MASON BAG: Constructed for heavy duty hauling. Masonite base keeps bag from drooping. Steel frame construction props bag open. With water weight canvas and heavy duty metal clasps. Double stitched leather handles and base protect against wear and tear. Used by plumbers and masons, its utility isn’t limited to the trade. Accrues a lovely patina with serious use, adds to the beauty of the rough edges of this bag. Each one unique. Made in the USA. Measures: 18” wide x 13” high x 6” deep. Interior Pocket: 11” wide x 9” high.

MACHINIST APRON: Heavy water weight canvas and durable double stitching make this unisex apron a useful addition to the workman’s wardrobe. Several pockets, and a strap to catch longer tools. Made in USA. One size fits all. Tie closure.

Useful indeed. Saw this here.

Fri, 04 May 2012 10:31:14 -0400

Useful indeed. Saw this here.

40 Uses for WD-40: 1. Protects silver from tarnishing. 2....

Thu, 03 May 2012 10:35:18 -0400

40 Uses for WD-40:

1. Protects silver from tarnishing.

2. Removes road tar and grime from cars.

3. Cleans and lubricates guitar strings.

4. Gives floors that ‘just-waxed’ sheen without making them slippery.

5. Keeps flies off cows. (I love this one!)

6. Restores and cleans chalkboards.

7. Removes lipstick stains.

8. Loosens stubborn zippers.

9. Untangles jewelry chains.

10. Removes stains from stainless steel sinks.

11. Removes dirt and grime from the barbecue grill.

12. Keeps ceramic/terra cotta garden pots from oxidizing.

13. Removes tomato stains from clothing.

14. Keeps glass shower doors free of water spots.

15. Camouflages scratches in ceramic and marble floors.

16. Keeps scissors working smoothly.

17. Lubricates noisy door hinges on vehicles and doors in homes.

18. Removes black scuff marks from the kitchen floor - Use WD-40 for those nasty tar and scuff marks on flooring. It doesn’t seem to harm the finish and you won’t have to scrub nearly as hard to get them off. Just remember to open some windows if you have a lot of marks.

19. Bug guts will eat away the finish on your car if not removed quickly! Use WD-40!

20. Gives a children’s playground gym slide a shine for a super fast slide.

21. Lubricates gear shift and mower deck lever for ease of handling on riding mowers…

22. Rids kids rocking chairs and swings of squeaky noises.

23. Lubricates tracks in sticking home windows and makes them easier to open..

24. Spraying an umbrella stem makes it easier to open and close.

25. Restores and cleans padded leather dashboards in vehicles, as well as vinyl bumpers.

26. Restores and cleans roof racks on vehicles.

27. Lubricates and stops squeaks in electric fans

28. Lubricates wheel sprockets on tricycles, wagons, and bicycles for easy handling.

29. Lubricates fan belts on washers and dryers and keeps them running smoothly.

30. Keeps rust from forming on saws and saw blades, and other tools.

31. Removes splattered grease on stove.

32. Keeps bathroom mirror from fogging.

33. Lubricates prosthetic limbs.

34. Keeps pigeons off the balcony (they hate the smell).

35. Removes all traces of duct tape.

36. Spray it on their arms, hands, and knees to relieve arthritis pain.

37. WD-40 attracts fish. Spray a little on live bait or lures and you will be catching the big one in no time. Also, it’s a lot cheaper than the chemical attractants that are made for just that purpose. Keep in mind though, using some chemical laced baits or lures for fishing are not allowed in some states.

38. Use it for fire ant bites. It takes the sting away immediately and stops the itch.

39. Removes crayon from walls. Spray on the mark and wipe with a clean rag.

40. If you sprayed WD-40 on the distributor cap, it would displace the moisture and allow the car to start.

The basic ingredient is Fish Oil. Saw Picture here. Uses found here.

Ball Mason Jars aren’t only for storage. Saw this here.

Wed, 02 May 2012 09:49:37 -0400

Ball Mason Jars aren’t only for storage. Saw this here.

Suitable for this rainy New England Day. The anatomy of Hunter...

Tue, 01 May 2012 10:11:03 -0400

Suitable for this rainy New England Day. The anatomy of Hunter Rain Boots. Saw this here.

Saw this here. See more here.

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 09:35:53 -0400

Saw this here. See more here.

Digital Instant Camera. By Polariod. Saw this here. See more...

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 09:35:29 -0400

Digital Instant Camera. By Polariod. Saw this here. See more here.

Saw this here.

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:33:14 -0400

Saw this here.

Curb Appeal

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:58:49 -0400

Make the most of your home’s appearance with attention to detail outside. Train plants to grow the direction you would like with a stake and some Baker’s Twine. Add instant appeal with new house numbers in the form of Utility Pole Markers. Haul away unsightly debris with a Tub Trug, or use it as an attractive alternative for container gardening. Have a handy and comely place to hang tools up and out of the way with the Bridle Hook.

BLACK BAKER’S TWINE: Baker’s Twine has been a ubiquitous fixture in bakeries for ages. The 100% cotton 4 ply string is FDA food safe approved, and while strong, it can still be broken by hand. Equal parts utilitarian and beautiful. Available in black and red. 2 pounds. 9072 feet.

UTILITY POLE MARKERS: Used to mark utility poles in the field, we find these Utility Pole Markers to be the perfect house numbers or just beautiful objet d’art. Made of embossed aluminum whose reactivity causes a tough transparent layer of aluminum oxide that resists corrosion to form when exposed to air. Unique paint formula inhibits ultraviolet rays. Apply to any surface with lacing wire, double stick tape, or nails. Measures: 3 ¾” high x 2 ½” wide.

4 GALLON TUB TRUG: Two extremely strong handles and a flexible body make handling much easier than any other bucket or tub - carry items around in one hand, sweep up into it like a dustpan, or store small items tidily away. Incredibly durable construction makes it perfect for lifting and carrying heavy items. Made of easily cleaned recycled material. Frost and UV proof. Measures: 15 ½” wide x 6 ½” deep.

BRIDLE HOOK: Made by a company that outfits stables, this sturdy, vinyl coated, steel Bridle Hook is designed to withstand heavy use. With three anchor points to secure it to the wall, it is capable of holding very heavy items. Aside from its obvious home in the stables, we’ve found it incredibly useful for heavy winter coats and scarves. Measures: 5 ½” long x 4” wide x 3 ½” deep.

Survival Kits. Saw this here. See more here.

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 09:43:13 -0400

Survival Kits. Saw this here. See more here.