SOLVENT-FREE BRUSH CLEAN UP

There is an alternative to using solvent to clean oil-based paint from brushes. Wipe off the excess paint with a rag. Then put a little hand cleaner, like GoJo or Goop, on the bristles. Work it through for about a minute and rinse the brush under warm water. Don't try this with natural bristle brushes. Water causes natural bristles to swell.

Wiping a paint brush on the lip of a paint can always leave paint in the groove of the can. Soon, the paint is dripping down the outside of the can. Try stretching a piece of strapping tape or duct tape across the top of the opened can and pinch the sticky sides together. It makes a handy, and effective, brush-wiping edge.

HOW TO REPUTTY WINDOWS

Reputtying windows can get a bit frustrating, even for a pro. The trick is good putty consistency. The consistency of glazing compound (window putty) varies by manufacturer, age of the compound and even the top to the bottom of the same can. The best way to change the consistency of glazing compound is to knead in a few drops of Penetrol, and oil-based paint additive. It seems to make the glazing compound more plastic and adhesive than other paint thinners. It takes just a few drops for a sizable ball of material.

PROTECT THOSE SQUEAKY HINGES

When faced with a squeaky hinge, a drop or two of Armor-All brand protectant will cure the problem longer than light oil and without any dirty streaks or marks. Because it contains silicone, Armor-All makes a good lubricant for light duty tasks.

REMOVING GLUE

Have you ever gotten stuck on a glue-up that takes too long, and the glue starts to cure before you have a chance to cean it up with a damp cloth? Instead of water; try using denatured alcohol on your cloth. Don't flood the joint with the solvent, because it will migrate into the joint and break down your glue.