Abstract: An adapter is provided for attaching decorative articles to shoelace tips. The adapter is small and inconspicuous with an outer cylindrical shape only about one inch in length and one quarter of an inch in outer diameter. The adapter has at one end a fitting for releasable securement to a decorative article, such as a light stick. At its opposite end the adapter is hollow and defines therewithin a plurality of coaxial sockets of decreasing diameter proceeding from the shoelace attachment end toward the decorative article receiving end. Each of the sockets preferably has a plurality of radially inwardly directed ribs that aids in frictionally engaging the stiffened tip of a shoelace within a socket of corresponding size. The adapter may be attached to the stiffened plastic tips of shoelaces to fasten decorative articles, such as light sticks to the shoes of a wearer.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for the explosive shaping of metal tubing are provided. A die including a pair of die halves are opened and closed by means of a clamping assembly attached thereto. The die halves include a plurality of die segments which are coupled in series. A breech is secured to one end of the die. A shotgun shell may be loaded into the breech and fired by means of a detonator. The necessary force for deforming the tubing is accordingly provided. A water retaining block is secured to the end of the die opposite the breech so that water can be held in the tubing prior to detonation of the shell.