ReadyMade: Instructions for everyday life

PAINTING & FRAMING

SLIP-FREE STAIRS
For outdoor paint projects (i.e. a patio or steps), stir a little sand into each can of paint to provide better traction on rainy days. The sand functions as a grip and helps prevent falls in slick weather.

FILM EDITOR
To prevent a filmy layer from forming in your paint cans, store the containers upside down after each use. Make sure you've capped the cans securely before you flip them, or lean to love your new painted floors.

WELL-HUNG
Not sure what height is right to hang your art? The general rule of thumb is to mount frames at eye level. Alternatively, the center of each piece should be anywhere from 57" to 66" from the floor. Basketball players, take note.

BUGS AWAY!
There's nothing worse than insects committing suicide on your new paint job. To keep the critters at bay, stir several drops of citronella oil into each gallon.

ODOR KILLER
To get rid of noxious paint fumes (or at least mask them), mix in two teaspoons of peppermint extract per quart.

BRUSHES BUILT TO LAST
Hair conditioner has many uses besides taming your tresses. Keep paintbrushes supple by dipping them in water mixed with a dollop of the goop after cleaning. A drop of fabric softener also does the trick.

FRAME CAMO
We've all unwittingly nicked wooden picture frames on moving day. Shoe polish is an unlikely but effective tool to touch up flaws. Find the appropriate polish to match the color of the frame and dab a thin layer directly onto the scratch. Let soak for a minute, buff with a rag, and poof! Good as new.

SILK-STOCKING SOLUTION
Even professional painters have to deal with old, lumpy paint. To filter out the chunks, they rely on this trick: Stretch a pair of nylon pantyhose over the top of an open paint can, secure it with several rubber bands, and pour the paint through the tights into a tray.

KEEP IT COOL
Taking an overnight break from your painting project? Seal your used roller in a Ziploc bag and pop it in the refrigerator to prevent it from drying. Just don't go ravaging for a midnight snack.

CHANNEL SURFING
Keep paint can rims clean by punching holes in the top channel (where the lid meets the can) with a hammer and nail. Excess paint will drip back into the can instead of drying in the groove, ensuring an easy-to-seal lid.

FORK IT OVER
Don't risk smashing your fingers when hammering a nail-protect them from an accidental pounding by using the tines of a fork to hold the nail in place.

SOFT SERVE
Cut an X in an old tennis ball and place it over the head of your hammer to gently knock together assembly-required gifts without pounding them to pieces.