16 clever uses for binder clips

I've always believed that you can fix just about anything with duct tape, olive oil, safety pins and a Sharpie. Add binder clips to the mix and the emergency hack kit is pretty much complete. As technology changes the nature of office supplies, the good old binder clip is seeing less and less paper in need of binding ... so put those isosceles triangles of spring steel to clever use in any of these applications.

1. Keep unruly wires tamed

© Boots Beulah

2. Fasten together a fabulous storage unit

robgiampietro/flickr

3. Display memorabilia and ephemera

© Boots Beulah

4. Store horizontal bottles securely in the refrigerator

muteboy/flickr

5. Turn a magnet into a magnet clip

© Boots Beulah

6. Make industrial-chic wine charms

Nikchick/flickr

7. Hang art without hurting it

ms.Tea/flickr

8. Use as a money clip

ksbuehler/flickr

9. Keep your recipe book open while cooking

© Boots Beulah

10. Clip together a dress and choker

Katherine Donaldson/flickr

11. Ditch the ouchie straight pins and clip instead

Cinnachick/flickr

12. Store cables in a sane manner

Matti Mattila/flickr

13. Secure bike gear

Earthworm/flickr

14. Make a smartphone stand

rich sipe/flickr

15. Organize plugs at your desk

drbakker/flickr

16. Batten down canopies and tents against the wind

veracious jess/flickr

This story was originally written for Treehugger. Copyright 2012.

Related story on MNN: 20 clever uses for duct tape