by Bill Retskin

Prior to the re-emergence of the popularity of matchcover collecting in America, there were a number of utilitarian and practical uses for the ubiquitous matchcover. Although several of these "fixes" will still work, both collectors and non collectors could be ruining a valuable matchcover in applying any of the following.

If using one of these is necessary, be sure it is a common national matchcover for the task. An early 1950s Popular Science article suggested the following:

1. USE AS A MARKING GAUGE - Measure the desired dimension from the scratching surface and make a pin hole in the cardboard. Insert a pencil in the hole and draw it along the board.

2. SPREAD GLUE EVENLY - by using the rounded end of a matchcover with a light wiping motion.

3. START A TACK - where fingers won't reach by putting it in a slit in the cover's end. Withdraw the matchcover after the first hammer tap.

4. KEEP SCREWS IN ORDER - when doing a repair job by threading them into an empty matchcover. Punch holes in it first.

5. USE A MATCHCOVER AS A CRADLE - for a small sable brush when painting
models or striping. Cut two notches in it and stand it on edge.

6. CLEAN IGNITION POINTS - or contacts in a thermostat by rubbing them with the abrasive portion of a matchcover.

7. A SCREW IN A PLASTERED WALL - always presents a problem. Solve it by inserting a dampened matchcover in the hole, then driving the screw.

8. FOR A NOTE - that can be spotted quickly when you're away, or even for a place marker at a party. Write a message or name on a matchcover turned inside out. Prop it up conspicuously.

9. SEWING KIT - for office or camping trips can be made by pressing needles into the inside of the matchcover and wrapping the flap with thread.

10. NEED A SHOEHORN? Use a matchcover. It's smooth and flexible enough to slide your heel into the tightest shoe.

11. TO MARK YOU PLACE - in a book use a matchcover opened out instead of bending down a page. Striking edge makes it slip-proof, too.

12. TO FOCUS A CAMERA - on an object with no sharp lines to define, stand the printed side of a matchcover facing the camera. It makes a good target for fine focusing.