MASTER FIX-IT

{ HANGOVER }

Hangovers are like bad tattoos: easier to prevent than fix. But if you do happen to wake up with one, the first step toward feeling human again is hydration. Drink water, and plenty of it. Coffee won’t help, neither will soft drinks, and a Bloody Mary will just prolong the pain. But while hydration will help flush out the toxins and ease the pain, the only true cure for a hangover is time. So call in sick, stay in bed, and forgo the cheap drinks.

{ BAD HAIRCUT }

The best fix for a bad haircut is loyalty. Find a barber or stylist you like, and form a relationship with them. The better they know your head and your style, the less likely you are to leave the chair looking like a fool. But if you aren’t happy with a haircut, don’t hide it under a cap— be a man. Grab the razor and take it down to the skin. A fresh start might be just what you need.

{ HOLE IN THE WALL }

When it comes to a hole in the wall, size matters. If it’s a small hole from a nail or screw, simply spread a tiny bit of Spackle over the hole, sand it, and paint. A large hole requires a bit more finesse, equipment, and time. A wall-patch kit from a home repair store will include everything you need, along with detailed instructions. Patience and attention to detail count, so plan to spend a good 45 minutes to an hour on the repair. If the hole is bigger than your fist, call a professional (and refrain from punching another hole).

{ RED WINE ON A WHITE SHIRT }

Timing is key here, because once the stain dries it will be harder to remove. Quickly dab the stain with cold water then cover it with salt, which will absorb the wine. When you get home, soak the stain in one-part white vinegar to two-parts water until the spot has vanished, then wash the shirt as you normally would. If this happens often, consider switching to white—a nice Bordeaux perhaps.

{ FLAT TIRE }

Join AAA and let someone else get sweaty, greasy, and frustrated. It’s the best $60 you’ll spend.