It's a pipe nipple - as in water or natural gas pipe (galvanized or black). I'd have to go back and review the DVD for the diameter, but I believe 1 1/2", and about 6" long. Get the DVD - it's great!
Sorry, but I don't have any stalled projects. Before I open a box, I have a pretty good idea in my head of what I want to do and what color(s) I'll use for the interior/exterior. Once that box is opened, I keep on going until completion.
Those pointed q-tips are make-up applicators. Gotta look around the make-up and not medical stuff. They also work very nicely when applying and buffing BMF.