This might seem very popular science weekend project-ish, but I have been enjoying the tools on puzzlephotos, so I have a few gadget related blogs in mind, including this one.

I have installed too many door closers in my time, most are finicky and either take too long to close the door, or don't really latch it right, or slam it anyway eventually as the hyraulics fade, or the screws loosen. Well, I found an elegant solution for our back door here the last time a closer croaked. Not for every door, but perfect for this one.

Just a simple spring mounted vertically to the jamb, positioned to stretch as the door is opened. It's gentle, does the job and is out of the way. The spring could be adjusted by changing the mounting point.
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Back Door Spring - makes an elegant door closer.