Abstract: A low cost magnetic gauge that measures the thickness of non-ferrous coatings such as paint on ferrous materials such as auto bodies. Construction consists principally of two telescoping tubes, connected by a spring, with a permanent magnet at the end of one tube. In operation, the magnet tube is placed against the surface being tested, and the other tube is pulled away from the surface. In a first embodiment, indicia are exposed as the non-magnet tube is pulled away, the reading being the last number exposed before the magnet tube pulls off the surface. A second embodiment employs a ratchet to hold the tubes apart at their maximum extension to facilitate reading. A third embodiment uses a wedge for the same purpose. A fourth embodiment adds a member which is drawn along the non-magnet tube by the magnet tube, and stays at its furthest extension on the non-magnet tube, due to a slight frictional load, when the magnet tube pulls off the material being tested.

Abstract: Precut framing dimensioned and shaped to form a frame and support for pictures, posters and the like includes a strip of material with a decorative front surface and an adhesive coating on the back surface. The strip has a configuration resembling a trapezoid with precut mitered edges and dimensions suitable for standard size pictures. Two protective tearoff sheets extend longitudinally along the backside of the strip and prevent the adhesive coating from attaching the strip to objects prematurely. To apply the strips as a decorative frame and support for a picture, the tearoff sheets are removed at different steps in a sequence to facilitate alignment and positioning of the strip and the supported picture. The strips may be provided with visible marks to aid in the alignment of the strips on a picture and the elimination of additive errors as each mitered corner of the frame is formed.