Smart tips for using tools the right way

Home projects and renovations can seem overwhelming, especially when you're a beginner. But even a novice can become a DIY enthusiast with the right tools. Here's some basic information about tools, that you need to know before you get started.

If you are a beginner, you can move your hand halfway up the handle. This will give you less power but more control.

• Before driving a nail into a plaster wall, put a piece of masking tape over the area to prevent cracks from forming.
• To drive a nail, hold it upright and tap it gently with the hammer; then take your hand away.
• Hold the hammer at the end of the handle and lift the tool, swinging your forearm from the elbow. Let the weight of the hammer do the work.
• For rough work, drive nails flush with the surface; for finish work, countersink the nails.

• If a nail is too small to grab it with your fingers, or if you are afraid of smashing your fingers as you drive the brad, poke it through an index card.
• Hold the card to position the nail as you drive it with a hammer.

• For a finished look, use a nail set to sink the head of the nail below the surface three millimetres (1⁄8 inch) or so.
• Use your finger or a putty knife to fill the hole with wood filler, allow it to dry and sand it smooth.

Measure twice, cut once. Finding a mistake after you have cut the material may mean having to start over again.

• To make sure the drill bit will not wander when you begin drilling, use a nail set to make a small starter hole.
• If you need to drill to a certain depth and no farther, wrap a piece of tape around the bit to use as a depth guide.
• Don't push hard as you drill, and pull the bit out every once in a while to empty the hole of particles.
• Avoid overheating the bit; if you see or smell smoke, stop and let the bit cool.
• It is a very good idea to drill a pilot hole before driving a screw and before driving a nail close to the edge of a board. This prevents the board from splitting, and it actually causes the screw or nail to hold better. Use a drill bit that is slightly thinner than the fastener you will be driving.

• Use a special masonry bit. Brick may be easy to drill into, but concrete is usually more difficult.
• As you work, spray the hole and the bit with window cleaner to keep the bit cool and to bring dust particles out of the hole.

DIY renovations can be difficult. Make the whole process easier on yourself by considering these tips that will help you get your home project done in no time!