Medicine-Cabinet MacGyver

Paint Prep

If you've ever used a butter knife to tighten the screw on a loose cabinet knob, then you know that often the best tool for the job is the one that's most readily available. But the kitchen isn't the only place to get your MacGyver on. Your medicine cabinet or dressing closet are also full of on-the-spot problem solvers, whether you need to condition a soapstone countertop, lube a sticking drawer, or clean up drippy spray-foam insulation.

OK, you've sanded all the new trim work. Now, sweep all that dust out of those little crevices with a narrow fan brush before you prime and paint.