Clever use for Observer plastic bags--Greenhouse!

We get suggestions all the time for clever uses for the plastic bags that (hopefully) keep your paper dry. Here's a new one from Ann Barringer, of Albemarle:
When trying to revive a dying plant, I found that the Observer plastic bags make a great mini-greenhouse.  The large Sunday ones work great for small plants.  Put the plant, pot and all, into the bag, then tie the top closed.  Instant greenhouse!  The top can be opened to water as needed and the clear plastic allows sunlight in.  It should also  work when trying to root cuttings. 

Send in your clever tip and you could win a $10 Lowe's card; clever@charlotteobserver.com

Awesomely Clever duct tape projects

We asked readers yesterday for Clever uses of duct tape and we got several  outstanding responses. Here's a few of the best:
High School student Abby Shepherd of Charlotte made this book bag, complete with Harry Potter Raven Claw design attached. (Abby won the rolls of Duck Tape brand duct tape.)

And Lisa Goldschmidt sent us a photo of zebra-print mules her 10-year-old daughter Lindsay fashioned. Bravo!

Clever use for duct tape? Win a prize!

What's your best duct ape trick ever?  Post here and send to clever@charlotteobserver.com and you could win.....a couple of colorful rolls of Duck Tape brand tape. We've got lime-green and a cool paint splatter pattern.

Clever tip for remembering recycling week

From Reader Kris Solow, Charlotte: 

To make it clearer as to which day to put out our green recycling container curbside, I simply put a "G" on those days of the month for the entire year.

That way, I don't have to think about it, just take
a look at my calendar. A simple green dot would also work.

Clever way to store plastic grocery bags

From Reader Linda Couto, Tega Cay:

I use reusable grocery bags but everyone needs those plastic bags from time to time. After I use up a roll of Saran Wrap I use the inner core to shove the bags in. I can usually fit approximately 15 - 20 bags in each core. The bags are handy and not taking up a lot of space and leaves my bag drawer clean and a lot more space for other items.

Post your ideas here or email to clever@charlotteobserver.com for a chance to win a $10 Lowe's card. 

Clever Way to read tiny emails

This is a tip from reader Glenda Loftin, in Denver, NC. Be sure to pass it along to a friends and family members who may not be as comfortable with a mouse as you are.


This is for everyone whose eyesight isn't what it use to be.
It's very useful when trying to read small e-mail print. If you
hold down the Ctrl. key on your keyboard and turn the small
wheel in the middle of your mouse, the print size will change instantly;
it will either get larger or smaller - depending on which way
you turn the wheel. Give it a try on this message.

Clever use for Thrift Store Plates

From reader Linda Eudy, Mt. Pleasant:

While yard or thrift store shopping, I buy old/odd dinner plates, often for 25-50 cents. When I take food to a family for a funeral, illness, etc., I use the plate to deliver the food on. They  don't have to worry about returning them and they also receive something pretty and useful.