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Tips & Techniques

Tips & Techniques is a collection of methods, tools, and jigs that our readers have devised to get things done on their own construction projects. Email photos and descriptions of your tips to us at [email protected]; post them with the #FineHomebuildingTips hashtag on Instagram; or upload them to FineHomebuilding.com/reader-tips for a chance to have them featured in an issue of Fine Homebuilding Magazine. Plus, we pay for any tips we publish.

Drywall Tips and Tricks

33 illustrated time-saving techniques for hanging, finishing, and repairing gypsum wallboard.
Solo Window Install

Unless a window is very large, I usually install it by myself. Over the years I've played with a few variations of how to install a window without it falling…
Another Way to Store Caulk Tubes

After using screws and anils to stopper opened tubes of caulk, I figured there had to be a better way
Belt-Hook Tool Storage

I was looking at different drill/impact-driver storage methods, and came up with the simple idea of using some 1-in. by 2-in. rectangular steel tube i had kicking around.
Copper-Pipe Crayon Holder

My lumber crayon in my tool pouch was always destroyed by my other tools. So I decided to make these crayon holders from scrap 1/2-in-dia. copper pipe.
Coffee-Mug Knife Sharpener

Your morning cup of joe could put a fine edge on your knife blades in a pinch.
Skirtboard Template

When I was asked to fit new skirtboards to an existing staircase, i decided to take my experience templating countertopsa nd apply it to the stairs.
House Painting Tips & Techniques

Use these 35 illustrated solutions to make your next finishing project easier, cleaner, and more beautiful.
Big Drywall, Small Lifts

These simple site-built jigs make hanging 12-foot-long sheets of wallboard easy, even when working alone.
Clamp Turnaround

Most woodworking bar clamps allow you to flip the ends to use the tool for spreading instead of clamping.