You should really learn how to sew. You know why? Clothes just aren’t made to last anymore…seams tear, and buttons pop easily. Once you get the hang of it, hand sewing is easy and actually quite relaxing. The one thing that can remain a frustration is—you guessed it—threading the needle! Unless you know the following tricks to make it work the first time every time…

Dip the end of your thread into clear nail polish, rubbing off the excess with a tissue. Let it dry—it shouldn’t take more than three minutes. The tip of the thread will now be stiff and easy to put through the eye of your needle. Or squirt a bit of hair spray onto the end of the thread—this will also stiffen it and make it obey your every command.

More help with clothes and laundry…