Nothing works magic like a fresh coat of paint. Inside or out it makes a house look new and furniture attractive, once again. Fresh paint makes anything look good except your hands, the floor and painting tools. Here are some tricks to make you a painting Houdini. First rub face cream or petroleum jelly on hands and exposed skin. Later all you'll need is a quick shower to wash paint off. When it's time to mix your paint, drill small holes in your stir stick for less resistance and easier stirring -- and to blend paint better. For latex paint, apply one thick coat. With oil-based paint, apply two or three thin coats. When you're done, don't put your brush in a coffee can. In no time bristles will bend and be permanently damaged. Instead cut a small "x" in the center of the plastic lid, push the handle through it and then put the lid on the can. Your brush will be suspended in the cleaning solution with no bending and no damage. Try it, it's a neat trick that works like magic. And that's the On The House tip for today.