Abstract: A ladder with extendible legs that may be individually and selectively, secured in the desired extent of protraction by a relatively uncomplicated locking mechanism. The locking mechanism may be incorporated in a ladder having at least a pair of support legs with an extension leg carried by, and slidable axially along, each support leg. A reaction surface is presented from each support leg. A pair of locking cam surfaces is also presented from each support leg. The locking cam surfaces are disposed in spaced opposition to each reaction surface. An engaging plate is presented from each of the extension legs. The engaging plate is slidably interposed between the reaction surface and the opposed locking cam surfaces. A locking member is, in turn, operatively disposed between the engaging plate and the opposed locking cam surfaces.

Abstract: A paintbrush caddy (50 or 150) embodying the concepts of the present invention utilizes a shelf plate (54,154) having a longitudinal length sufficient for supporting a paintbrush (80) thereon. The forward end portion of the shelf plate (54,154) may be affixed to a vertically depending apron (52,152) positioned at an obtuse angle (.alpha..sub.1) relative to the shelf plate (54,154) such that a paintbrush (80) supported on the upper surface of the shelf plate (54,154) is positioned at an acute angle (.alpha..sub.2) with respect to a horizontal reference when the caddy (50,150) is used. An upwardly extending stop plate (60,160) is also affixed to the shelf plate (54,154) at its forward end portion, and the stop plate (60,160) is penetrated by at least one drain aperture (66,166) that opens through the stop plate (60,160) at the level of the upper surface (54a,154a) on the shelf plate (54,154).