Directions for making nylon scrubbies are simple

Dear Heloise: I am still trying to find the directions for how to make those nylon scrubbies for cleaning dishes, pots and pans, etc. M.G., via e-mail

The nylon-net scrubbies are cheap, easy to make and fabulous for all kinds of things, from cleaning the sink and pots and pans to the shower and tub. Here are the directions: You’ll need 1‚Ñ2 yard of 72-inch-wide nylon net (found at fabric stores), dental floss or strong nylon thread, a large needle and scissors. Cut the nylon net into three 6-inch-by-72-inch strips and lay the three strips on top of one another evenly.

Take a large needle, thread it and begin sewing down the middle of the strips in long basting stitches. When you reach the end, hold the thread in one hand and pull back on the nylon net to form a bunch of nylon net. Secure by wrapping the thread around the center of the bunch, then tie into a tight knot. Trim the ends and separate the layers so they make a ball.

There is also an easier way to make these scrubbies using a rubber band. Tightly wrap a rubber band around a length of nylon net, then pull up the edges to form a ball, and that is all there is to it! Heloise

P.S.: These are handy to use and dry quickly.

Dear Heloise: I use leftover kitchen shelf liner to decorate a plain planter. The liner gives a sunny look to the plant and adds character to the plain planter. The liner comes in different colors, with or without decorations, and some are heavier for different types of grip. Anna Victoria Reich, Stafford, Va.

Dear Heloise: I just read your column regarding hints for a successful garage sale in the Hickory (N.C.) Daily Record. One hint I have found helpful is to use round, yellow paper plates. On the plate, print the address and draw an arrow pointing toward the destination. Your newspaper ad should say “Follow the round, yellow paper plates.” People really don’t have to read what you write; they can just follow the trail of colored paper plates.

In other words, make your signs stand out. Camille Withers, Hickory, N.C.

Dear Heloise: Since we live in an area with hard water, I always wipe down the shower with a squeegee after use, and wipe the faucets to prevent water spots. I have found the ultimate — blue paper shop towels, located in auto-supply stores/departments. They’re tougher than regular paper towels. Barb Pryor, Kerrville, Texas

Dear Heloise: I keep a sticky pad in a kitchen cupboard. When I discover something that needs to be replaced, I write it on the note. I keep a running list, and when I make my trip to the store, I just take it with me. John in Laguna Beach, Calif.

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