this post was submitted on 26 Jan 2025
30 points (89.5% liked)
What is this thing?
5891 readers
117 users here now
Let us help you identify that mysterious object you’ve found.
Currently in CHALLENGE mode: If you've got something obscure knocking about, post a picture, and let's see how we do. Please prefix such posts with "CHALLENGE:" so we know we've got a fighting chance.
founded 2 years ago
MODERATORS
you are viewing a single comment's thread
view the rest of the comments
view the rest of the comments
Yup!
You need to go very niche next time! Wonder if you can make it to a day without the right answer.
I'm getting better at this as I go. I'm pretty good at developing methods for things like this; honestly my biggest and most developed skillset is probably creative problem solving (it's a lot handier in my line of work than most people would expect) but there are some things that just need to be practically tested to understand the limitations of.
I do try to avoid tools that are too broadly applicable like there's a lot of specialty brushes on these markets but what makes them use specific is stuff like size shape and bristle stiffness which are still pretty broadly applicable. Like a little brush with a long handle has a looot of different uses, think about everything you can do with a used toothbrush. I also try to avoid jewelry and decorative items unless they also have some super specific function like if it was a decorative hair roller so the part that rolls the hair is what has to be identified and the decorative components would be red herrings. Or a decorative cigarette / blunt roller or something (have not found any of these items as yet so don't think I'm spoiling anything).
Edit: Oh! And toys especially purely sensory toys. I'm pretty ADHD so I get a lot of recommendations for fidget toys (along with cheap jewelry they're most of what I'm actually buying) and I figure if the entire function is that it spins or clicks in a specific way it wouldn't be very sporting. I've also been getting into a lot of esoteric religious practices to help me apply what I've learned in therapy in a way that's less clinically sterile, so I also get a lot of ads for crystals and "energy focusing copper coils" and the like that don't... actually... have a real function? If it was a really weird looking traditional instrument like a special type of gong or something I might use it.
How is it used? Like a spatula for spreading/contouring?