Tips, Tips and More Tips from February 2012

Removing stickers from collectibles can be a problem. Try these methods with paper antiques: First, try to remove a paper sticker with water. Then try to rub off the glue or dissolve the glue with paint thinner (look for toluene of xylene products). Don’t use very much and use it quickly. Alcohol and lacquer thinner can be used on ceramics or glass, but not on wood or paint because it will damage the finish. Transparent or adhesive tape is harder to remove. You have to try to get the solvent under the tape.

Cover the nose of your hammer with a piece of felt to protect the wall when you are putting up picture hooks. If the wall is smooth, some of the new stick-on hooks might work.