Handy handles
If you don't like the bulbous bulky types of wood or plastic handles that the hardware or engineering shop usually stocks, shown in the picture on the left, and haven't got the inclination or equipment to make your own, then try this idea.
It is a simple hint, but such details can add pleasure as well as efficiency and they are important when you work with your hands.
Several trips to your local opportunity, charity or junk shops should see you with a drawerful of handles, similar to the ones on the right. They are found on cheap cutlery and out-of-fashion fondue forks ete and are invariably at a giveaway price.
A few taps usually removes the unwanted stainless steel implement, and then you can fit the handles on your precious, expensive files, and other tools, in the usual way by heating the tang of the file and tapping the handle on.
The handles vary in their turned shapes, sizes and colour. This is handy to aid in quick recognition of a wanted tool. They take up less room for storage and the turned shapes help you hold the file or other tool firmly while doing fine or delicate work.
They look good too.
Brian Barkworth, Australia
