Much-improved painting products

There's a small, little-known company in Minnesota called, Bercom, that manufactures some of the world's most innovative, cleverly designed painting products. Sold under the name, Handy, these products are extremely well made, affordable and--get this--made in the U.S.

Don't even think about starting another painting job without first checking out Bercom's Handy line of painting accessories. Shown above are my two favorites: the Handy Paint Tray and the Handy Paint Pail.

If you've ever painted with a flimsy metal or cheap plastic paint-roller tray, then you'll love the Handy Paint Tray ($10). First, it's made of thick, rigid plastic, so it won't buckle when you lift it up, even when it's full of paint, and second, it has a wide, stable base so it won't easily tip over.

The tray is also equipped with two large, rubber-coated carrying handles and a magnetic paintbrush holder. And to make clean up easier, Bercom sells clear plastic tray liners; a four-pack costs about $5.

The Handy Paint Pail ($10) is designed for paintbrushing, and is ideal when you're cutting in around a room or touching up. It's essentially a large plastic cup fitted with an adjustable rubber hand strap.

Note that these products can be safely used with all latex- and oil-based paints, stains, and solvents.