By Noreen Doll.
I came across an old paper punch that had belonged to my folks.
It had been around for quite a while, and because it was old, it was a very well made tool.
But, unfortunately, it had rusted some on the inside, and when I squeezed it shut it stayed that way. I had to pry it open again to release it.
I was going to dispose of it, but because it was such a quality tool I was reluctant to let it go.
So I decided to see what WD40 would do for it.
I sprayed it on both sides, everywhere around the hinged part where 2 surfaces moved together.
Then I sprayed up inside the handle where the spring mechanism had rusted.
I squeezed the handles, and it released the first time! I squeezed the handles several more times to work the WD40 into all the areas.
Then I used a paper towel to wipe the tool thoroughly inside and out, wherever I could reach – to remove the oil.
To be sure the edges were sharp, I folded a piece of aluminum foil several times and punched it full of holes.
Now the punch works perfectly, and it just feels better in my hand than the newer ones do.
3 Hole Punch That Wouldn’t Work
I had already put this 3 hole punch in the Goodwill bag, and it had not yet been taken there when I spied it.
The handle on this punch would not even move at all when I tried to punch with it, and I would attempt to use it periodically.
Finally I decided there was something severely wrong that I couldn’t fix.
After my success with the other punch, I decided to see what WD40 would do for this 3 hole punch.
I sprayed around each area where there was a hole punch and let it sit a minute or two. Then I pressed the handle down – and it worked beautifully.
I worked the handle several times to work the WD40 through it and then carefully wiped off all the excess with a paper towel.
Then I folded a piece of aluminum foil 2 or 3 times and punched it several times. Perfect!
And now I have a useable 3 hole punch again!
How to Sharpen Decorative Edge Scissors.
Noreen Doll
Rena Klingenberg says
I think one reason this punch feels better in your hand than the newer ones do is because it’s been in your family for a long time. 🙂
Diana Rambles says
Great tip!
Donna Wilkes says
Love this tip!
Felecia Cofield says
Hi Noreen! That WD-40 is some amazing stuff! I am so glad you shared this! I have some pruners I need to do this to! Blessings from Bama!
Del says
Great tip. The WD40 does wonders. We use it all the time for cranky brackets and hinges.
Found you through create it Thursday.
Lizy @ http://justdipitinchocolate.blogspot.com/ says
Great tip Thank you so much for saving the old hole puncher in our garage! for real I was about to toss the darn thing! Share more tips or any other project at the Fluster Buster party next week! Thank you for linking this one up, Lizy party co host
Becca says
Good to know! I have one that I thought was on it’s way out. I’ll have to give this a try. Thanks for sharing! Stop by my Friday’s Five Features tomorrow and link up this post (and others)! http://diy-vintage-chic.blogspot.com
Robin says
Great tips. I’m not sure if I would have thought of that one on my own. Thanks
Summers Acres says
Great advice! We leave in such a disposable world these days. Most people would just get rid of these things rather than taking the time to fix them. Love it! WD 40 is some awesome stuff for so many things!
Nici says
Great tip! Pinning! Have a wonderful weekend!
Blessings,
Nici
Ritchil says
Thanks for the wonderful tip! I actually have a rusty puncher that needs fixing.
PJ @ Planned in Pencil says
Is there anything WD40 can’t do? I’m with you on preferring the older things. I feel like it was just made so much better back then, I love having vintage things around me. Thanks for sharing on the Pinworthy Project Party!
Cathy says
Great tip! Thank you for sharing at our TGIF Link Party at A Peek Into My Paradise. Your post will be featured at the TGIF Link Party this week!
Cathy @ http://apeekintomyparadise.blogspot.com/
Becca says
Thanks for stopping by DIY Vintage Chic’s Friday’s Five Features and Fun Festivities. Don’t forget to stop back by tomorrow!
creativejewishmom/sara says
Thanks for sharing on craft schooling Sunday, good save on the metal hole punch, I have one exactly like it that is great for punching holes in plastic bottles….
Kathy Penney @ Sparkles And A Stove says
How handy is WD40?! Thanks for sharing at All Things Pretty!
Theresa @DearCreatives says
Hi Noreen, Happy New year! I am featuring this tomorrow. January is the perfect time to fix up your tools! Theresa @DearCreatives
Rhonda says
I never knew wd40 would work so well. Will have to keep this in mind.