Part 2 — Preserving Paints and Pastes

White lead, thick shellac, and pastes that are used occasionally may be preserved by laying a piece of leather over the exposed surface. When these materials are kept in cans, cut a piece of leather from the upper of a heavy boot of such a size that it will drop freely into the container. Form a handle on the leather disk by driving a nail through its center from the under side. Press the disk down smoothly over the surface of the contents and a thin film of oil will soon form over the disk, effectually excluding the air. A loose cover is placed over the container, to keep out dust.—Contributed by Luther McKnight, Colorado City, Col.