Multiple Uses of Your Old Coat Hanger: From DIY Repairs to Artistic Creations
few realize the myriad ways an old coat hanger can be reused and repurposed. From practical repairs around the house to creative art projects, these humble wire hangers are invaluable. Whether you’re dealing with a drunk uncle locking his keys in the car or simply looking for a way to transform an old item into something new, this guide will show you just how versatile an old coat hanger can be.
Once upon a time, coat hangers were simply tools for hanging clothes. Today, they serve as the unsung heroes of the DIY world. From fishing out small objects like screws or wires to repairing items like exhaust pipes, toilet tanks, and even drop ceilings, the list of uses goes on and on. And thanks to their versatile design, the possibilities are endless.
Repurposing Old Coat Hangers
While repurposing a coat hanger simply means putting cloth back on it, there are much more exciting ways to use these wire hangers. One of the best ways to repurpose them is to turn them into wire art. This involves creating intricate designs using multiple sections of wire hangers, transforming them into beautiful pieces of art that can be sold or displayed.
To start, draw out the pattern of the shape you want. More complex designs will require a significant number of wire hanger sections. Once you have your design, use sandpaper to remove all of the varnish from each wire section. Bend the wire pieces to match your pattern and then solder them together using a high-power soldering iron. Sand the joints to ensure they are smooth and visually appealing, and then color the piece. You can choose to spray or brush paint, and sell the finished piece at a swap meet or hang it on the wall for display.
For those quick fixes and DIY tasks, here are some other ways to repurpose your old coat hangers:
DIY Uses of Old Coat Hangers
Hanging a spare key under the car: By making a simple hook, you can use the coat hanger to hang a spare key under your car for emergencies.
Unlocking a locked-out car: Coil a portion of the wire into a key-like form and use it as a temporary key to unlock your car.
Ensuring gas line connections: Use a small section of the hanger to ensure gas line connections on your pump stay secure.
Unlocking a house handset hole: Coil a small section into a key shape to unlock a handset hole in a knob.
Aid in disposal: Use the hanger to help position and remove disposal materials safely.
Repairs involving exhaust pipes: Bend a wide screw pattern on the end and use it to fish out hair or debris from a drain or exhaust.
Support for drop ceilings: Use the hanger to add supports to a drop ceiling or as a safety hanger for a light.
Mending brake calipers: Make a safety hanger for a brake caliper while working on rotors.
Yard gate: Use the hanger to keep a yard gate from flapping in the wind.
Hanging tools or storage: Create a versatile hanger for tools or storage needs.
Tire chains: Use the hanger to keep tire chains from flapping around.
Bird house/feeder hooks: Use the hanger to hang a bird house or feeder securely from a tree.
Tools and Techniques for Wire Art
To create wire art from old coat hangers, you’ll need a few tools and materials: a wire cutter, a small hammer (optional), pliers, solder, flux, and a high-power soldering iron. Solder and flux are paramount for creating a strong and smooth joint between wire parts. Soldering irons should be powerful enough to heat the wire quickly without taking too long.
By combining these old coat hangers with your creativity and some basic tools, you can transform them into beautiful wire art pieces. The possibilities for repurposing are endless, from functional daily tools to stunning decorative items. So, next time you find yourself with an old coat hanger, remember the many uses it has and get creative!