Do you have home improvement questions? Don't ask the hairy guy in the orange apron, just Ask Mom.

Dear Mom,
Last weekend I wanted to repaint my bedroom. I had already picked out the paint a couple of weeks earlier (a beautiful rose) so I hurried to the store to get rollers, dropcloth, tape, etc. I was sure I had everything and could start as soon as I got home. Well, when I took out the picture hooks I had a few small holes to fill. I grabbed the container of putty from the garage to fill the holes and discovered it was dried up. By the time I went back to pick up putty it was too late to finish the painting that day. Was there something I could have substituted for the putty to save myself a trip back to the store? Dottie in MA

Dear Dottie,
Isn't it frustrating when something like that happens? Kind of like getting ready to brush your teeth and discovering you're out of toothpaste. Well, if you have some that gritty toothpaste (I think it has baking soda in it for that yucky texture) - you can use it to fill the holes. Another good substitute is to mix cornstarch and water to make a nice smooth paste.

Reminder: Don't forget to lightly sand the area around the filled hole after the putty (or substitute) dries. Then wipe the area with a slightly damp cloth to remove any dust.