Bob Vila Radio: Painting Timesavers
Here’s how to make neater work of your next painting project…

Photo: neighborhoodnotes.com
Listen to BOB VILA ON PAINTING TIMESAVERS, or read text below:
Applying paint right from a can gets messy: I always recommend painting from a pail instead of the can, so you can get just the right amount of paint on your brush. And now you can get pails with removable liners to help with the cleanup.
You can take the guesswork out of storing leftover paint by marking the level of the paint remaining in the can with a rubber band or masking tape around the outside before you seal the lid. Mark the lid with a dab of the color inside and label where you used it.
For brush cleanup, nothing beats warm soapy water. But if you’ve been using oil-based paint, you need to clean them in an inch of solvent first in a metal or glass container, not a plastic one, before giving them the soap and water treatment. Use an old comb to smooth the clean bristles and keep them in good shape for your next project!
Bob Vila Radio is a newly launched daily radio spot carried on more than 60 stations around the country (and growing). You can get your daily dose here, by listening to—or reading—Bob’s 60-second home improvement radio tip of the day.
For more on house painting, consider:
Bob Vila’s Top 12 Painting Tips
Quick Tip: Painting a Room
How To: Paint Like a Pro