Microwave popcorn is a quick and easy snack, but too much of it is wasted as unpopped kernels. Luckily, the popcorn bag's own design can help you filter out the kernels, and even reuse them.
Once the popcorn is nearly finished cooking, take it out of the microwave and turn the bag upside down over a bowl. Though you may need to open it slightly, the small vent at the top of the bag should be big enough for kernels to fit through, but won't allow any finished popcorn to escape. A few seconds of vigorous shaking should get most of the kernels out.
If you really want to maximize the value of your popcorn, you could throw the spare kernels in a paper bag and put them back in the microwave for a few seconds. Most of them should pop, and you won't have to burn the rest of your popcorn to do it.
Photo by Wallula Junction
Instead of throwing out the cardboard center roll from your paper towel or toilet paper roll, put it to good use in the garden. Cut it into segments, and press it into the soil around your newly planted seedlings to give them a little extra protection from slugs and other ground dwelling pests that won't appreciate a tall barrier between them and your plants. 
Heavy duty rubber bands (such as those that hold broccoli bunches together) are great for managing cords, attaching gear to your go-bag or backpack, and other uses. All you need to do is cut them from an old bicycle inner tube with a pair of scissors as shown by Instructables user 
If you break the handle on your favorite kitchen knife you will probably either look forward to shopping for a new knife or wish you could give your trusty knife a new handle yourself. For those who'd rather fix what they have, you can remove the pieces of the old handle with a hacksaw and then you can cut and attach a new handle. 
