Julian Cassell's DIY Blog

Fox paint brushes are a distinctive range of brushes on the market that are definitely making a few waves with both pros and DIY enthusiasts alike. Paint brushes are certainly an area of the DIY and home improvement market place that seems to continue growing, and keeping up with developments can be a time consuming occupation. Therefore when the nice people at Fox brushes asked me to take a little look at their range – how could I refuse! And my guide below should help you make up your mind on any potential purchase. read more »

Zinsser 123, or Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 to give it its full name, is a type of primer sealer that can help with all manner of DIY decorating jobs in your home. It’s slightly different in composition to my normal ‘go-to’ primer, Zinsser BIN, and in the guide below, I’ll explain why Zinsser 123 is sometimes the best choice when priming and sealing surfaces prior to decoration. read more »

Rembrandt angular sash brushes are synthetic bristled paint brushes designed for applying both oil-based and water-based paints. The angled design of the brush also lends itself to trying to provide the best and most accurate finish possible, when cutting in around the edges of walls, ceilings and indeed woodwork. Synthetic bristle brushes, as a category, have become the first choice for many tradesmen and DIY enthusiasts, especially when applying water-based paints such as emulsion for walls and ceilings, read more »

Zinsser BIN is a primer sealer that I feel outshines all ‘equivalent’ products on the market because it has so many applications, and can solve so many problems in all manner of decorating projects around your home. It has come across the pond from the US (along with so many other great decorating products!), and after I first became aware of it, maybe 10 or so years ago, it has become a stock item in my decorating supplies. In this guide I’ll explain a little more about what makes Zinsser BIN special, and a few areas of decorating where I find it to be an invaluable aid. read more »

Choosing exterior paint is a task that shouldn’t be taken lightly, as not only are you making a decision from a decorative view point, but you’re also picking products that will actually protect your home. Paint really doesn’t like rain, and extreme weather conditions, so buying quality exterior paint that deals best with these issues will give you the most longlasting, and hardwearing finish. For instructions on application see my guides ‘Painting exterior masonry’ and ‘Painting exterior wood’ read more »