Need a smooth, hard surface for cutting masking tape? At craft or discount stores you can purchase inexpensive, borderless picture frames called “clip frames” for a smooth, hard work surface. You can use them as palettes, too, and they are easy to clean. Clip frames are often packed with an MDF (medium-density fiberboard) backing that has several uses as well. (I use it as a cutting mat until it gets too beat-up.) Also, these materials can be recycled.

Tip submitted by:
Mike MurphyOttawa, Ontario, Canada