Scrapbook paper helps with paint color selection

DEAR HELOISE: I read your column and find the hints interesting and useful. I actually have one of my own that might be helpful.

When I want to paint a room but am unsure about color, I purchase scrapbooking paper in solid shades of several different colors. They are only a quarter or so, and are 10 times the size of paint samples from the store.

For an even larger paint sample, tape two or more together to get a larger view, or buy a poster-board sheet if you want a simple primary color. — Carol Warnick, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio

Clean glassware

DEAR HELOISE: I have some favorite drinking glasses that my son sent me when he was overseas serving our country. They had become very foggy and ugly-looking. I didn’t want to have to toss them, but I couldn’t seem to get them clean, and nobody wanted to use them, since they weren’t very appealing.

Then I thought about good ol’ vinegar, your and my favorite cleaner. So, I heated some plain household vinegar and used a nylon-net scrubbie, and scrubbed and scrubbed the glasses until they were clean. Then I washed and dried them, and they were sparkling. Give it a try — you won’t believe it! — Brittany, via e-mail

Hot spots

DEAR HELOISE: I recently got a great deal on a beautiful solid-oak dining room table that is perfect for my home. The only drawback is that there are five spots that I’m told are from very hot food being served on a paper plate and then set on the table. These marks resemble water marks but are bigger, without the “ring” look to them. Do you have any hints for getting these marks out? Thank you so much. — Laurie C., via e-mail

DEAR LAURIE: This Heloise hint might work if the stains are not too old. Mix white toothpaste with baking soda in a 50/50 solution. Rub this into the area in a circular motion, using a clean sponge, cloth or even your finger. The spot should get a little warm to the touch. When the stains are gone, wipe off the mixture with a slightly damp cloth. Buff dry and wax or polish the wood with furniture polish to reseal it. Voilá — good as new! — Heloise

Hints from Heloise is syndicated by King Features Syndicate. Send great hints to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000; by fax, 210-HELOISE (435-6473); or by e-mail, Heloise@Heloise.com.