Loans

Have you ever thought that you'd like to have a go at DIY but you're not really sure where to start, our DIY tips and painting hints will give you a push in the right direction.

Stop a drill slipping and scratching tiles - stick a piece of plaster tape on a tile and drill through it. Try this when knocking a nail into plaster too, for less chipping.

Ever wondered how to stop nails splitting plaster or wood? - before inserting a large nail into wood first make a starting hole with a small nail. Then extract it. Next rub the large nail with soap and it should go in smoothly.

Remove washable or painted wallpaper - brush over the surface with a wire brush first, then soak to loosen wallpaper.

Use mothballs to prevent rusty tools - keep some in your toolbox to absorb the damp - especially if you keep your tools in an outside shed.

Painting hints

Avoid painting early morning or late evening - even in dry weather dew or mist can cause moisture on wood that may blister paint later.

Use petroleum jelly on door hinges - this will make it easier to wipe off paint splashes.

Keep brushes in shape - wrap elastic bands around bristles after you've cleaned them - so they'll keep their shape whilst drying.

Paint alternate stairs - you can use the alternate stair while the paint is drying.

Remove paint smells with an onion - simply cut in half, leave in the room and the smell will disappear.

A quick guide to paints

Plastic emulsion paint - hardwearing, washable surface. Dries quickly. Does not leave brush marks. Easy to use with a roller.

Semi gloss paint - an undercoat for gloss paint.

Gloss paint - hard wearing for inside and outside use. Tendency to leave brush marks unless care taken. Use semi gloss undercoat first for best results.

One coat paint - no primer required if painting hardboard. Can be used over wallpaper.

Oil bound water paint - for use on indoor walls and ceilings. Washable.

Flat oil paint - gives suede and eggshell finish. Good for kitchens and bathrooms.