Hardware Retailing The Industry's Source for Insights and Information
During the Fall 2025 Ace Convention, Hardware Retailing managing editor Lindsey Thompson explored the convention center floor at McCormick Place in Chicago, looking for new and exciting products. Here’s what she found:
Stain Pad Original Cut-to-Size | Makrs Woodworking Tools
The Stain Pad is a microfiber cloth around a sponge applicator pad. It is a disposable alternative to bristle brushes, provides better durability than a foam brush and more control than a shop towel or rag. It is perfect for furniture, cabinets, trim, cutting boards, bowls and any fine woodworking project. Retails for $22.49.
“My husband and I have done several large woodworking projects that have required staining and this would have been a gamechanger. I had a chance to meet and talk to the inventor and company owner, Jarred, and hear his story of how necessity led to the invention, which is how so many great products come to be. I had a chance to try out the Stain Pad and was blown away by how easy it slid over even the smoothest wood. This product would be extremely helpful for any staining project, but especially one on rougher wood.”
Low Country Lounger | SoCo Swings
The Low Country Lounger is SoCo Swings signature wicker rattan with curved arms and cushion support. The synthetic wicker rattan is the most weather-resistant product we offer. The cushion is made up of two layers of 600×600 Denier UV-treated nylon, double-stitched at the seams and resistant to mold and mildew. The Low Country is complete with ½-inch triple-braided polyethylene ropes that make it strong and very resistant to dry rot. It comes complete with a hardware kit to hang from a patio or from one of the company’s frames. Retails for $754.
“I love spending time outside but love to be comfortable so these caught my eye. These loungers not only look beautiful but are ridiculously comfortable and come in a number of colors. They are extremely sturdy and easy to get in and out of.”
Pickle Everything Game | Pickle Everything Games
Called the best word game ever, the Pickle Everything Game is unique, fast-paced, competitive and absolutely hilarious. Belly laughs guaranteed! The original game comes with expansion and themed decks, including kids, foodies and sports. Retails for $9.99.
“I love pickles, and so have been loving the moment that pickles are having right now in everything from different foods to various pickle drinks to now even card games. My family loves playing cards, so these would be a fun addition to our card nights. The original Pickle Everything Game comes with several expansion packs and the company also makes several other games and even a super cute pickle stuffy toy.”
Freshley Overalls Ultralight Ripstop | Dovetail Workwear
Crafted from tear-resistant ripstop fabric with a PFAS-free, plant-based water and stain repellent treatment, these lightweight women’s overalls are perfect for summer workdays in the garden or adventures in the backcountry. Designed with 15 thoughtfully placed pockets, the Freshley Overalls keep essentials secure and accessible without getting in your way. Features like Flex suspenders, a Hip Slot™, a TwineHole™ and knee pad slots ensure comfort and functionality as you bend, squat or tackle tough tasks. Retails for $129.
“My daughter plans on going into agriculture for her career and has worked on a local farm. As soon as I saw these, I immediately thought of her. They are not only super cute and come in several colors, but are durable, practical and well-priced for a quality piece of workwear.”
The Original EuroSCRUBBY | EuroSCRUBBY
The euroSCRUBBY makes cleanup fast and easy, plus it’s safe for almost all surfaces. euroSCRUBBY can be used in the kitchen on nonstick pots and pans, glass and ceramic cooktops, cookware and even on root vegetables and in the bathroom on porcelain, marble, tile and glass shower doors. It’s also great for the outdoors on garden tools, furniture, boats and pools and environmentally friendly and dishwasher safe. Retails for $11.99
“These caught my eye because of the beautiful colors. I have a very white and gray kitchen, so I love adding pops of color through dish towels and rags. These are not only pretty but are practical and can be used in the kitchen, bathroom and even outside on a variety of surfaces.”
