Unusual Workshop Solutions
I stopped using my eyelids as goggles (it was just too hard to get lines straight) and have developed other unusual methods for the workshop. Enjoy.
Supplies
uhm, you'll see . . .
Use Retractable Key Holders for Taming Vacuum Hose From Ceiling
This has been my favorite unusual use of retractable key leash (e.g.: https://www.amazon.com/Heavy-Duty-Retractable-Chain-Inches-Steel/dp/B01MTXY9HP).
First hang a light-weight shop vac from the ceiling (use pulleys of course so you can lower it to empty it once in a while).
Get an extension for your vacuum hose (I found my extension at the ReStore (Shop Habitat for Humanity ReStore)
Then hang three or so retractable key lanyards from the ceiling. You'll have to play around with the placement to fit the workflow in your workshop.
Attach your hose to the key lanyards.
Extra credit: use a Harbor Freight magnetic tool bar (https://www.harborfreight.com/18-in-magnetic-tool-holder-60433.html) and a few magnets from an old hard drive to hold the end of the hose up and out of the way.
Demo of the ceiling hose are shown in the following videos:
Use an Old Mini Fan for Managing Vacuum Hose With Power Tools
This is the weirdest hack. You'll see these portable clamp fans at thrift stores. The one I'm using here just stopped working so I salvaged the articulating part of it. Then bungee your vacuum hose and articulate as needed against your power tool. Here, the hose is lined up with a router that is to the right, but out of the picture.
Use a Under-the-bed Box for a Sanding Down-draft Table
Poked a few holes in the bottom, then made a hole in the side large enough to insert my floor vacuum's attachment. Works kind of so-so. Eh
Use Dollar Store Shower Curtains for Sanding Station
Threw up three clear shower curtains (actually I think these are liners) along with dollar store curtain rings in a corner and made a sanding station.
Currently I use paper clamps to close the curtains when I use the station, but I'll probably glue on some magnets on the edges.
Use a Wire Hangar for Caulk Poker
Ever tried caulking with a tube? Ever tried caulking with a tube whose seal hasn't been poked first? Ever tried to find something to poke the tube with?
I've tried nails (either too short or too wide), an official caulk poker (as shown in photo -- too short), screws (well, just a pain), ice picks (can never find it when I need it), and an assembly of other pointy things (not to mention cursing at the tube and hoping it would magically open).
A wire coat hanger seems to have the longest reach with an acceptable diameter. You can see in the photo the length from the tip of the tube to where the seal is and just how long of a poker you need.
Use Knee-high Panty Hose for Gaiters When Routing or Chainsawing
Ok actually this is the weirdest hack. If you've ever used a router or a chainsaw, and sometimes a table saw, uh and sometimes a circular saw, you'll often wind up with chips and splinters in your socks that are impossible to get out. A pair of extra-large knee highs over your shoes will act like gators, but are easier to put on and take off. And cheaper.