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  4. 5 New Uses for New(ish) Things

5 New Uses for New(ish) Things

Real Simple Author
By Real Simple Editors Updated August 29, 2014
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Crocs as hanging planters
Credit: James Wojcik
Maximize what you invested in, like these recent inventions and (on-the-wane) trends.
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Clogs as Hanging Planters

Crocs as hanging planters
Credit: James Wojcik

Before you retire well-worn gardening clogs, consider this: You can use them as hanging planters (the holes are perfect for drainage). Line the toes with moss, then plant pansies, violas, or pin cushion ivy. Hang them by the heel strap.

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Cupcake Carrier as Knickknack Organizer

Cupcake carrier as knickknack organizer
Credit: James Wojcik

For the 359 days of the year when you’re not hauling cupcakes, use the cups to store jewelry or craft supplies.

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Silicone Cutting Board as Place Mat

Silicone cutting board as place mat
Credit: James Wojcik

No more crying over spilled milk from tumbled cereal bowls, thanks to this nonslip surface.

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Digital Camera as New-City Navigator

Digital camera with a city map on the display screen
Credit: James Wojcik

Don’t make yourself a target by looking like a tourist. Snap a photo of your map and it will look as if you’re scrolling through snapshots, not street names.

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Shearling Boot as Pot Holder

Ugg Boot pot holder with a frying pan with butter
Credit: James Wojcik

If your shearling boots have passed “broken-in” on their way to “disreputable” (or if you’re simply over the craze), you can still make good use of them. Cut a square from the shaft of a boot and use it to grab hot pot handles. Just be sure to clean the shearling first.

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    1 of 5 Clogs as Hanging Planters
    2 of 5 Cupcake Carrier as Knickknack Organizer
    3 of 5 Silicone Cutting Board as Place Mat
    4 of 5 Digital Camera as New-City Navigator
    5 of 5 Shearling Boot as Pot Holder

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