Posted by Peter Brady on Mon 28th August 2006 at 07:00 AM, Filed in Decor, Gadgets, Tools
If you’re anything like me, destroying paint brushes through sheer laziness is a past time. i.e not bothering to clean them properly. Critical if you want them to remain in a reasonable state.
Well there’s no replacement for a thorough clean but you can use an intermediary measure such as paint brush storage tub like this one from James Town Distributers:
“Keep your good brushes nice and new by storing them in the JD Brush Keeper. The 14-inch tall plastic container has a removable rack at the top to suspend up to 8 brushes in kerosene or diesel. Also has an air tight lid to prevent evaporation and spillage. If you already have, or are interested in, high quality brushes for painting and varnishing, then this keeper is essential for making the most of your investment.”
Using a good quality step ladder is a must. If you buy second hand or cheaper models you maybe taking a risk with your health!
My favourite model comprises a sturdy, aluminium frame with a flat plate at the top for resting paints and tools. A five tread ladder should be sufficient for most of your household needs and easy to store. A key feature is that the ladder must lock into place when opened and remain so when it takes your weight.
Some useful ladder safety tips:
- Make sure the ladder sits level and stable during use.
- When stretching ensure that your hips stay within the sides of the steps.
- Keep both feet placed on the ladder at all times.
- Be watchful when returning down the ladder. Stepping on power cables and tools can result in serious injury.
Posted by Peter Brady on Wed 23rd August 2006 at 08:00 AM, Filed in Gadgets, Tools
I have personally used some very effective lasermeters for measuring distances quickly. However, they aren’t cheap.
The Ultrasonic Distance Measurer may offer a viable alternative, retailing for a very competitve £14.95 ($24).
Gizoo say the main features include:
- Measures distances from 3 to 60 ft. (0.91 to 18.28m)
- Easy to read LCD screen
- Choose metric or imperial units at the touch of a button
- Separate memories for length, width and height measurements
- Add and subtract directly between the three stored numbers
- One touch calculation of volume and area
- Precisely measures distances in feet or metres using ultrasonic sound
Posted by Peter Brady on Tue 22nd August 2006 at 08:00 AM, Filed in Gadgets, Tools
Never get caught short again with a credit card spanner! Umm not sure how useful this little gadget actually is. Nonetheless, it’s an interesting idea.
According to Gizoo this little DIY tool is described as follows:
- Credit card sized spanner
- Fits conveniently in your wallet
- Metric sizes from M6 to M14
- Made from 1.2mm stainless steel
Retails for £7.95 ($12.95). Might make a nice little gift for a DIY enthusiast!
Posted by Peter Brady on Fri 18th August 2006 at 08:00 AM, Filed in Gadgets, Tools
Amazing how the simplest things are best. This tool named the “Stanley Wonder Bar” is simplicity personified.
DIYtools say it’s:
“Ideal for pulling nails, prying, lifting and scraping. Incorporates a bevelled nail slot at each end”
I found it particularly useful for levering paving slabs up.
