Drop Cloth Mania

This blog is rarely about “tips and tricks” but one came up today that I thought I would share.

The first time . . . and the 80th time . . . I had to do some painting, without thinking I went to the hardware store and bought the usual dropcloths.  They are usually plastic, 9×12, and about $3 each.  They work, more or less, but are not always the best thing to use

I have gradually expanded my approach to dropcloths.  Nowadays I actually tend to use the cardboard moving boxes they sell at Home Depot.  Reason is, they are nice and stiff and easily go right up against a straight edge of a wall without any extra effort and not much blue tape.  They are also very easy to move to the spot where I am working.  They are usually less than $2 each, and they are much better for smaller jobs generally.  And unlike plastic 9×12 dropcloths (which always end the day as a big wad of not-reusable stuff) once they dry out I can use them over and over again.  And they are easily stored behind a dresser or whatever.

Another tip and trick: garbage bags, which cost what, a quarter apiece?  work just as well if not better as dropcloths . . .  again, this is for smaller spaces.

Also the 9×12 plastic dropcloths are a serious pain (and time loss) to unfold when brand new.

Author: admin

Hi, Justin here. I do handyman work in the Boston Metrowest area. I specialize in solving problems, like doors that don't close right, things that don't hang right, and many basic small repairs. Note, I don't do bigger projects like building decks, I prefer to fix things already installed. I love healing old houses and making things look right. Call 781 330 8143 or email handyauthor@gmail.com. View all posts by admin