Here are some tried-and-true tips for keeping tools in shape or making projects easier. If you have more of your own to add, please drop us a line in the contact us section of the site.

Keep Tools from Rusting

Place a couple pieces of chalk in your tool box or storage container. Chalk absorbs moisture.

Keep Wood from Splitting

Blunt the nail point with your hammer before you use it. Wood is less likely to split with a flattened tip. Or push a nail or screw through a bar of old soap. We don't know why, but it helps them go in easier without splitting the wood.

Loosen Rusty Bolts

Try club soda or ammonia. Should loosen 'em right up.

Loosen Old Glue

Old glue usually loosens up with a little bit of household vinegar.

Keep Tape from Drying Out

Store your rolls in an old coffee can. Pop on the plastic lid and it should keep them fresh.

Increase a Nail's Holding Power

Nails driven in at an angle don't tend to pull out as easily as nails driven straight in.

Keep Your Brooms from Warping

Be sure to hang brooms after you use them to keep bristles sturdy and warp-free.

Reward Yourself

Keep a bottle of Early Times around to reward yourself after your project is done.