Re: [VFB] Gadgets / Tools

[ROBERT TREVIS]

Personally, the best gadget is one from my days on the farm - 40 years ago - a Cow Magnet!   Cows occasionally get "hardware disease" - meaning they manage to ingest pieces of metal or wire which end up making a mess of their digestive tract - except that dairy farmers can give the cow a permanent pill, a magnet about 3" long and 1/2" in diameter, which ends up in one of the stomach compartments, trapping the offending metal before it progresses further through the digestive system (and making surgical removal easier if necessary).    I would even guess that the good Dr. Whittle has one at his desk - these cow magnets will not only pull dropped hooks out of carpet, or find size 24 hooks if you spill a box - they are also good for magnetizing a bodkin or scissors tip.   Can be purchased at most co-ops and farm supply stores - at least in dairy areas.    Bob Trevis aka Troutchaser ----- Original Message ----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Wednesday, February 11, 2004 3:47 PM Subject: [VFB] Gadgets / Tools I am wondering if you could have any gadget or tool at your bench besides the essentials, bobbins etc.. What would it be? [snip]