Add padding to your gardening tools or update a weathered handle. Slit pipe insulation is inexpensive and available at most home improvement and hardware stores. Slit pipe insulation is made of flexible polyethylene and is normally found in the plumbing department.
This insulation makes a great padding for the handles of gardening tools or to cover wooden handles that have become weathered over time. Slit pipe insulation is usually sold in six-foot lengths and comes in several different inside diameters, so measure the diameter of your tool's handle before purchasing.
Just cut off the desired length with scissors or a knife, open the partial slit, and then slip the insulation onto your tool handle. If the insulation slips or turns on the handle, take off the insulation and wrap tape-duct or masking tape works well-to the handle in several places and slip the insulation back on . Or you can tape the outside of the insulation in several places.
Cindy Harrington, Smith County Master Gardener
Texas Cooperative Extension
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