Putting Brass to Task
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19518200/01_reuse_keys.jpg)
These indispensable openers—often made of brass—can do more than provide access. Read on to unlock new uses.
1. Use as a Plumb Bob
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19518212/02_reuse_keys.jpg)
Tie a key to a string when you need a vertical reference line for indoor jobs, such as hanging wallpaper. Because the key is flat, it will sit flush against the wall, unlike a regular plumb bob, making it easier to check that your work is straight as you go.
2. Turn Them into Hooks
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19518222/03_reuse_keys.jpg)
Bend the keys using pliers and a crescent wrench—if keys are old and brittle, you may want to heat them over a gas burner first to make the metal more pliable and prevent them from cracking. Attach to a piece of wood with decorative nails or tacks.
3. Clean Boot Treads
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19518300/04_reuse_keys.jpg)
Use a key to dig out caked-on mud from the soles of work boots. The tip fits between treads perfectly.
4. Weigh Down Curtains
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19518333/05_reuse_keys.jpg)
Slip keys into the hem pocket along the bottom edge of lightweight drapes that are near a breezy floor register, to keep them from blowing around.
5. Pop a Top
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19518409/06_reuse_keys.jpg)
Grab the edge of a beer or soda bottle cap with a key's teeth and lever it off.
6. Anchor a Balloon
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19518438/07_reuse_keys.jpg)
Tie a few loose keys to the ribbon on a party-ready helium balloon to keep it from floating away.
7. Create a Door Chime
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19518444/08_reuse_keys.jpg)
Suspend keys from staggered lengths of fishing line attached along the edge of a narrow board with eye screws. Hang on a door to alert you when someone is entering.
8. Distress Furniture
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19518461/09_reuse_keys.jpg)
Place several old keys on a ring and attach to a piece of string or a long zip tie. Beat furniture with the keys to create indentations where wear marks might occur naturally with age.
9. Make Magnets
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19518473/10_reuse_keys.jpg)
Glue small magnets to the backs of old tarnished keys to add a fun touch to your fridge front.
10. Donate Them to Charity
:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19518488/11_reuse_keys.jpg)
Send extra keys to Keys for Kindness, an organization that raises money for multiple sclerosis by recycling the metal.