My local auto-parts store sells a 6-in. dia. metal dish that has become part of my carpentry-tool library. Its distinguishing feature is a magnetic base, thoughtfully coated with a nonmarring material. The magnetic base makes steel parts stick to the dish and allows me to attach the dish to any available steel object. I’ve used the dish to hold numerous little items that would otherwise have quickly headed for inaccessible locations. The dish has proved handy during tool setup and repair, but mostly it helps in situations where gravity is not on my side. For example, crawling on my back is a great way to empty my pockets and my tool pouch. But now, all those little screws and nails hang on tightly to the dish. And if there are metal objects nearby — steel studs, for instance — the dish and its contents will stick to them, even upside down or underwater.
I’ve used the dish to clean up nails in the grass and to sort metal from floor sweepings. I’ve used the dish to hold screws while installing a metal roof and to keep my drill from sliding off. I’ve even used the dish to cradle my coffee cup while riding in the truck.
I’ve truly come to appreciate magnetic attraction, especially now that I don’t have any of my own.
Brian Carter, Concord, NH
