26 faster and neater painting tricks

Store partly used tins upside down so the skin that forms will be on the base when you turn the tin over.

Or cut a disc of aluminium foil, using the lid as a template, and press it gently onto the surface of the paint.

If you have more than half a tin of paint remaining, position a piece of plastic wrap over the top and replace the lid securely for an extra-tight seal.

Use screw-top jars to store small amounts of paint as it will keep better in a small container.

Decant the paint into a clean and dry jam jar, rubbing petroleum jelly around the rim first so the paint doesn’t make the lid stick.

You can also pour the paint into a plastic food bag.

Make sure you squeeze out the extra air as you seal the bag, then replace it in the original paint tin and seal it tightly.

To remove crayon marks from painted walls, spray the area with WD-40 then wipe with a soft cloth.

Make a paste of bicarb soda and water, and rub with a soft cloth.

Wipe with a cloth dampened with methylated spirits.

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