Tricks of the trade

Oct 12 2008 Justin And Colin

Here's a great gadget to bring back cushions or bedspreads that have started to bobble and look past their best. The Bobble Off from JML effectively shaves off the bobbles leaving your woollens smooth and revived. The Bobble Off costs £4.99 from www.jmldirect.com

Going for glam.. they've got it Ol

If you're looking for glamour without breaking the bank then try the online store from fashion favourites Oli.

We particularly love their delicate damask curtain panels from £18, silk dragonfly pendant lamp, £30, and string curtains from just £10. For more details click on www.oli.co.uk

We've taken to unplugging TVs, computers and heaters instead of leaving them on standby. Not only is it safer, it also reduces the amount of electricity used and therefore reduces your bills too. Every little helps.

If you lose the remote control time and time again, why not integrate your handhelds into one device that does it all? One For All's Zapper 3 will do the chores of three remotes. Click on www.oneforall int.com

Our top tip this week is invest in a battery tester. When a toy or electronic device seems low on batteries power, take them out and test them. More often than not you'll find only one battery is dead. Changing just the dead one saves cash. The Uniross battery tester costs just £3.99 from www.screwfix.com

STYLE BIBLE

what's hot in the shops

Make! by Cath Kidston, £14.99, published by Quadrille.

Cath is one of Britain's most-loved designers, best known for her vintage-inspired, cheerful prints for the home.

This book offers a chance to make your own projects and gifts using Cath's motifs.

Inspired by vintage prints found in car boot and jumble sales, you'll soon learn the techniques of stencilling, applique, embroidery or patchwork. If you're at all crafty, then this book is full of good ideas and a genuine must-have.

Hot buy: This week we've got to have the Woodland olive green glass bowl from the Linea Home range at House of Fraser. It's handmade and is the most fabulous £25 you'll spend this week. Snap one up at your local House of Fraser store or click on www.houseoffraser.co.uk