Most dentist’s offices give patients a going-away kit with floss, a small tube of toothpaste, and a toothbrush. Often, these brushes are molded in single color of plastic, such as blue, green, red, amber, and clear.

If you’re nice, the dental hygienist might let you choose the color you want — then you’ll have a ready-made supply of scratchbuilding material. The colorful plastic can be made into aircraft running lights, taillights, and much more.

Tip submitted by:
Bill Hardie
Jacksonville, Fla.