Avoid ugly hammer marks
![Avoid ugly hammer marks](https://handymandg.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/1-hammer-mark-hack.jpeg)
Nails are easier to drive if you take a full swing. But the downside is that if you miss the nailhead, you’ll leave a deep ‘elephant track’ in the decking. Use a 6mm plywood cushion to protect the deck boards in case you miss with a hammer. It allows you to concentrate on nailing without worrying about denting the deck boards. Simply start the nail. Then slip a small square of 6mm plywood over the nail and swing away. Remove the plywood for the last blow.
Testing mitre cuts
![Testing mitre cuts](https://handymandg.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/2-FH00MAR_01938007.jpeg)
An easy way to test whether your table saw is set to 45 degrees is to cut off a short length of your trim, then hold it to a square. A gap means your angle is off.
Circle gets the square
![Circle gets the square](https://handymandg.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/3-FH04DJA_updated-tool-callout.jpeg)
Here’s a magical way to trace arcs and circles for project parts. Tap two finish nails at the ends of a desired diameter, then rotate a framing square against the nails while holding a pencil in the square’s corner. Spray the underside of the square with silicone or rub on some paraffin so it’ll glide smoother. Then practise a little to get the feel of the three-point contact technique.