Solving Painting Problems

Smart Solutions : Episode SSL-754 -- More Projects »
Household expert Joey Green shares easy, inexpensive solutions to common painting problems.

  • To avoid getting covered in paint, spray exposed skin with cooking spray. The paint should come right off--without scrubbing. This method is effective with latex or oil-based paints.
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Figure A
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Figure B
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Figure C
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Figure D
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Figure E
  • To neutralize the strong smell of any type of paint, add one tablespoon per gallon of vanilla extract (figure A), which is a natural deodorizer. It won't affect the color of the paint.

  • To help paint stick to metal surfaces, dampen a sponge with vinegar and rub over the surface to be painted (figure B).

  • To help paint stick to plastic surfaces, rub the surface with a used fabric-softener sheet.

  • To tint white paint, add a packet of powdered drink mix in the desired colored directly to paint (figure C).

  • To clean up spilled paint on carpeting, remove as much paint as possible with a paper towel. Cover the spill with a large amount of white flour (figure D), which will absorb the paint. Vacuum clean.

  • Clean paint off your hands with solid vegetable shortening (figure E). This technique is good with latex or oil-based paints.
  • Resources
    Joey Green's Encyclopedia of Offbeat Uses for Brand-Name Products ...
    by Joey Green
    Hyperion / Buena Vista Books, 1998
    Order this title from Amazon.com.

    Guests
    Joey Green
    Author
    Website: www.wackyuses.com
    Also in this Episode