Magician and escape artist Harry Houdini was born on this day in 1874. This master illusionist made things appear and disappear at will. So can you if you know the master's secrets. Wish you could wash the stiffness out of a pair of brand new jeans without washing out the color? Here's how: First soak the jeans for 30 minutes in 5 quarts of water with 4 tablespoons of white vinegar added. Then place them in the washing machine and add a half cup of salt as it fills. Don't use laundry detergent. The result? You'll have true-blue comfortable jeans. Want to revive black jeans that are looking gray? Soak them first in warm water with a little vinegar, then wash with water softener instead of detergent. This removes any soap buildup that could cause some black clothes to look gray. If they're already faded, no magic (not even Houdini's) is going to bring back the black. Only dye will accomplish that. For more tips, visit our Web site at Onthehouse.com.