1. Coat screws with little bit of beeswax to make them easier to install, especially in hardwoods.

2. Sometimes masking tape will dry out over time. You can renew it by putting it in the microwave for a few seconds.

3. In addition to frequently filing your lathe toolrest smooth rub a piece of paraffin wax along it. This will allow your tools to glide more easily.

4. Use cooking oil to remove spots of polyurethane from your hands. Rub a small amount on your hands and scrub. Finish up with soap and water.

5. Household vinegar (acetic acid) makes an excellent rust removal agent. Soaking a rusted tool for a couple of hours will chemically dissolve the rust. Follow this by wiping with a neutralizer like baking soda.

These are just a few tips that I picked up over this past week. They come from a variety of sources including books, magazines, newsletters, online and some from personal experience.

There are more Woodworking Tips and Tidbits located here.

Got a woodworking tip that you want to share? Let me know and I’ll add it in a future issue of Tips and Tidbits!

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