Becoming a Handy Woman or Man

Being handy is a matter of following simple directions – a combination of common sense and practical get-down-on-your-hands-and-knees experience. With the right tools and some basic know-how, you can cut way back on those emergency repair calls and enjoy the distinct satisfaction of self-sufficiency.

Follow these simple guidelines to ensure that your handiness doesn’t become foolhardy and expensive!

Adopt the physician’s creed: do no harm! There’s no sense in trying to take apart a bathroom faucet is you can’t tell a washer from a valve seat. A botched job may seriously complicate the plumber’s task and turn your attempt at thrift into a nasty surprise!

Be realistic. Very intelligent people sometimes believe they can figure out anything, given the inclination. But electrical wiring in not logic or psychology. Learn how. Don’t try to wing it!

Make a friend at your hardware store or home supply outlet. The staff members in these places are great resources for information on which tools and materials are right for your project, and the good ones will give you tips on doing the job. If you’re out to pick an expert’s brain, plan your visit for a weekday.

Read the directions. They may be written in pidgin, but the directions for the tool, adhesives or replacement part can keep you out of trouble. Ditto for diagrams.

Own a real toolbox. You may need more than the few tools you stuff ito your junk drawer. Get yourself a divided toolbox and start filling it with real tools. If you assemble a basic toolbox you’ll be equipped to tackle just about anything that needs fixing!

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