More than once I’ve received a look of disbelief when I’ve asked a helper to get the lipstick from the truck. But the stuff comes in handy in a variety of situations.
When I need to mark the end of a door latch or deadbolt strike, I rub some lipstick on the bolt, close the door and turn the bolt against the jamb to locate the proper spot to drill.
Drywall cutouts can be easily found by smearing the edges of the electrical box with the lipstick, hoisting the sheet of drywall into place, and pressing it against the outlet. Pull the drywall away from the box, and make your cutout on the lipstick marks for a snug fit every time. This principle works for paneling and siding too.
Ernie Ale, Santa Ana Heights, CA
Edited and Illustrated by Charles Miller
From Fine Homebuilding #26
