ReadyMade: Instructions for everyday life

BUILDING & CRAFTING

FORK IT OVER
Don't risk smashing your fingers when hammering a nail-protect them from an accidental pounding by using the tines of a fork to hold the nail in place.

SOFT SERVE
Cut an X in an old tennis ball and place it over the head of your hammer to gently knock together assembly-required gifts without pounding them to pieces.

STICKY FINGERS
When working with adhesive materials like contact paper and shelf liner, Alana Dill of Alameda, California, peels them apart the easy way: by wrapping a fingertip in double-sided tape and squeezing gently at the corners to detach the tacky part from its protective backing.

CRAFT CUBBY
Line shallow drawers with ice cube trays or egg cartons to organize beads, thread, and other small items.