Skills

Master your craft and perfect your skills with these professional tips, techniques and industry insights.

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      Painting a Ceiling? These Pro Tips Will Make It Easier

      Painting a ceiling doesn't have to be hard work.

      11 Painting Secrets from Our Expert Readers

      We asked for real-world painting pointers—and got hundreds of great tips from our Field Editors. Here are some of our...



      10 Handy Hints To Get More Out of Your Speed Square

      The speed square is a mainstay in every carpenter's toolbag. Here are some of the reasons why.


      How To Age Wood: 5 Easy Ways To Get That Weathered Look Without Waiting

      Aging wood gives it a unique, lived-in quality. Here are some of the most effective methods.

      17 Easy Landscaping Secrets To Transform Your Backyard

      These tips will help you create your dream landscape.


      How to Unclog a Toilet with Hot Water When You’re In a Bind

      Before you reach for that bottle of caustic chemicals, try this foolproof method for unclogging a toilet with hot water.

      The Secret to Unclogging a Toilet With Dish Soap

      Harness the power of ordinary dish soap to unclog a toilet.


      How to Glue and Join PVC Plastic Pipe

      A Family Handyman expert shows how to glue PVC joints for a quick, leak-free seal.


      How to Build a Full Frame Cabinet Door with MDF

      Learn how to use MDF to make full-frame cabinet doors.


      How to Stain Wood Evenly Without Getting Blotches and Dark Spots

      Seal wood and test finishes to prevent blotchy stains on softwoods like cherry, pine, and birch.

      How to Create a Decorative Edge with a Router

      Learn to create a decorative wood edge using a router.


      How to Pour a Concrete Slab

      Master the right techniques and tools for pouring a concrete slab successfully.


      3 Simple Ways to Whitewash Wood

      Add a touch of farmhouse style to any project!


      Planing rough-sawn lumber with a jointer and planer

      Turn rough-sawn lumber into smooth, flat wood thanks to this expert.


      14 Handy Hints That Will Make Measuring Easier and More Accurate

      If you're looking to speed up your projects, you can use these clever tricks to make carpentry measuring faster and...

      Does Paint Get Darker or Lighter When It Dries? Here’s the Deal

      Painters know you shouldn't try to color-match your paint while it's wet. They dab some on a test surface and...


      Paint Smell Lingering? Here’s How to Clear the Air

      Quickly disperse paint fumes after your next indoor paint project.


      20 Tips for Moving Furniture

      Moving furniture is a big job, but there are ways to make it easier on yourself and your helpers. Here,...


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      Elevate Your Space: Building the Perfect DIY Loft Bed

      Make the most of your limited space with this DIY loft bed project.


      Tips for Installing and Working With PVC Conduit

      Cheap, easy and lightweight: Is there anything PVC can't do?


      Garden Path Ideas That Are Easy, Cheap and Low-Maintenance

      You can build garden paths in a weekend with minimal expense. Here are some ideas.


      Why the Day After Thanksgiving Is an Annual Plumbing Crisis

      Don't let stubborn clogs ruin your holiday.


      10 Basic Woodworking Lessons You Should’ve Learned In Shop Class

      Want to get better at woodworking? Master the basics.


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      Show Off Your Records with This DIY Wooden Crate Display

      Showcase your favorite albums with this project on how to build vinyl record storage...

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      Cut Perfect Circles Every Time With This Easy DIY Router Circle Jig

      Boost your project potential and achieve flawless arcs and circles by constructing a versatile router circle jig for your workshop.


      An Electrician Teaches You How To Use Electrical Tape

      It takes a bit of finesse, but once you get it, you get it.


      A Guide to Enamel Paint and Where to Use It

      Learn all about enamel paint: its durability, best uses for home projects and tips for achieving a smooth, long-lasting finish.


      How To Refinish Wood Furniture

      Unlock professional-quality results with this detailed wood furniture refinishing project.


      11 Tips on How to Grout a Backsplash

      Follow these tips to grout your backsplash like a pro.


      How To Make a DIY Lazy Susan

      Unleash your creativity and learn how to make a lazy Susan that will be the centerpiece of your next dinner...