Handout / Vancouver Province
Too much wallpaper? Scoring it with multiple holes prior to removal will make a tough job slightly easier.
Question: We want to do some redecorating; however there is wallpaper on the wall. The problem is the previous owner did not use sizing. How can we remove the wallpaper quickly, and do we need to prepare the wall before painting? Thanking you in advance for your assistance. Best regards. Gina
Answer: The fastest way to remove wallpaper is to perforate it with a scoring tool. The holes created allow water to penetrate through the wallpaper to release the glue bonding it to the wall. The more holes that you make, the faster the removal process is. Only light pressure is needed. Use hot water and hot vinegar. This technique still requires time and energy, but it works better than the steamer method. Another trick is use sandpaper to remove dry wallpaper. No matter which technique you choose you will have stronger biceps when you are finished. When the wallpaper is gone, clean the wall with T.S.P. and water according to the directions on the carton.
Question: I was wondering if you know of any way to clean between the glass on an oven door. The stove is a ceramic top Frigidaire, about three years old, and there is drip stain between the glass panes. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thank you. Judy
Answer: You will need to remove the four screws on your oven door and the glass frame should come off. You may want to have someone help you hold it. Clean the glass with baking soda and water. Leave on for 15 minutes then scrub with an abrasive (non-steel wool cloth). Or contact the manufacturer for product recommendations on this particular model.
Question: I am making a large dessert for an upcoming potluck dinner. How many teaspoons equal one tablespoon? Thanks. Marvin
Answer: Here is a nice short answer for you, three teaspoons equal one tablespoon. Bon appetite!
Question: Can you tell me what I can use as a substitute for corn syrup? Samanda
Answer: For each cup of light corn syrup in a recipe, substitute one cup of sugar and one-quarter cup water. For each cup of dark corn syrup, substitute one cup of packed brown sugar and one-quarter cup water.
Question: Help. Every time I make pie crust it sticks to the kitchen counter and falls apart when I transfer it to my pie plate. What am I doing wrong? Bambi
Answer: When you’re making pie, try this trick: roll out the dough between two pieces of wax (or parchment) paper. (A little water sprinkled on the counter will help hold the bottom piece in place.) Remove the top sheet, lift the bottom piece with the dough and turn it upside down into your pie plate, then peel off the paper. No messy counters or rolling pin.
Note: Every user assumes all risks of injury or damage resulting from the implementation of any suggestions in this column. Test all products on an inconspicuous area first.
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